Lego Rivendell: Double Purchase Or Black Friday Savings?

by SLV Team 57 views

Hey Lego enthusiasts! The majestic Lego Rivendell set has captured the hearts of many, and if you're like me, you might be pondering the big question: should you buy two sets right now, or hold out for potential Black Friday deals? This is a crucial decision, especially considering the investment this set requires. Let's dive deep into the pros and cons to help you make the best choice for your Lego collection and your wallet.

The Allure of Double Rivendell

First off, let's talk about why you might even consider buying two Rivendell sets. The primary reason is to expand and enhance the build, creating an even more epic and immersive Middle-earth landscape. Imagine doubling the size of the Council of Elrond, adding more Elven architecture, and extending the lush greenery of Rivendell. For serious Lego builders and Lord of the Rings fans, this is a dream come true.

Investing in two sets allows for some seriously impressive modifications and expansions. You could:

  • Create a larger, more detailed Council of Elrond: Imagine a truly grand gathering of Elves, with more seating and intricate architectural details.
  • Expand the Elven architecture: Build additional towers, archways, and living spaces to create a sprawling Elven city.
  • Enhance the landscaping: Double the foliage, add more trees, and create a more realistic and vibrant forest setting.
  • Build custom creations: Use the extra pieces to design your own unique Rivendell structures, adding your personal touch to the build.

Owning two sets also gives you a vast supply of extra pieces, which can be invaluable for other Lego projects. The unique Elven architectural elements and the diverse array of minifigures offer endless possibilities for creative building and display. Think about the possibilities for custom MOCs (My Own Creations) that incorporate the distinct style of Rivendell.

However, the biggest advantage, really, is having all those extra minifigures. Imagine building a truly epic battle scene or council meeting with a vast array of Elves, hobbits, and other Middle-earth characters. For collectors, this is a major draw.

The Temptation of Black Friday Deals

Now, let's consider the other side of the coin: Black Friday. The allure of a discounted Lego Rivendell set is strong, especially given its price tag. Black Friday is renowned for its deep discounts on a wide range of products, and Lego sets are often included in the sales frenzy. But, here's where things get tricky.

Black Friday deals are never guaranteed. While Lego sets frequently see discounts during Black Friday, there's no assurance that the Rivendell set will be among them. High-demand sets, especially those newly released or highly sought after, are less likely to be heavily discounted. In fact, sometimes they aren't discounted at all.

Even if the Rivendell set is discounted, the size of the discount can vary widely. It might be a modest 10% off, or you might strike gold with a 20% or even 30% reduction. But, waiting means taking a gamble on what the actual discount will be.

Also, keep in mind that availability can be a major issue during Black Friday. The most popular sets tend to sell out quickly, both online and in stores. If you wait for Black Friday and the Rivendell set is heavily discounted, you might find yourself in a virtual (or physical) queue, competing with countless other shoppers for a limited supply. There's a real risk of missing out entirely.

Waiting for Black Friday also means delaying the joy of building and displaying this magnificent set. The Rivendell set is a complex and rewarding build, and owning it now means you can enjoy the process of constructing it, displaying it proudly, and adding it to your collection immediately.

Factors to Consider Before You Decide

Before you make your decision, let's consider some key factors that might influence your choice:

  • Your Budget: This is perhaps the most important factor. Can you comfortably afford two Rivendell sets at the current price? If not, waiting for a potential discount might be the more prudent option.
  • Your Desire for Expansion: How strongly do you feel about expanding the Rivendell set? If you're content with a single set, waiting for Black Friday might be a reasonable strategy. But if you're dreaming of a sprawling Elven landscape, buying two sets now might be the way to go.
  • Your Risk Tolerance: Are you comfortable with the risk of missing out on a Black Friday deal? Or the risk that the discount won't be significant? If you prefer certainty, buying now might be the better choice.
  • Availability Concerns: How worried are you about the set selling out before Black Friday? If you've noticed it becoming harder to find, buying now might be a wise move.
  • Patience Level: How long are you willing to wait? Black Friday is still several months away, and waiting means delaying the gratification of owning and building the set.

Analyzing the Financial Aspect

Let's break down the financial implications a bit further. The Lego Rivendell set is a significant investment, so it's important to consider the potential savings from a Black Friday discount versus the cost of buying two sets at full price.

For example, let's say the set retails for $500 (just an example price). Buying two sets at full price would cost you $1000. If you wait for Black Friday and get a 20% discount, you'd save $100 per set, or $200 total. That's a substantial saving, but it's not guaranteed.

However, if the discount is only 10%, you'd save just $50 per set, or $100 total. In that case, the savings might not be worth the risk of missing out or the delay in owning the set.

It's also worth considering the potential for price increases. Lego prices can fluctuate, and there's a chance the Rivendell set could become more expensive before Black Friday. If that happens, the potential savings from a discount would be offset by the price increase.

Alternative Strategies to Consider

Before we wrap up, let's explore some alternative strategies that might help you get the best of both worlds:

  • Look for other discounts and promotions: Don't limit yourself to Black Friday. Lego sets often go on sale at other times of the year, through various retailers and promotions. Keep an eye out for these opportunities, and you might be able to snag a discount before Black Friday arrives.
  • Use Lego VIP points: If you're a Lego VIP member, you can earn points on your purchases and redeem them for discounts on future sets. This can be a great way to reduce the cost of the Rivendell set, regardless of Black Friday.
  • Consider buying one set now and another later: You could buy one Rivendell set now to enjoy the build and display, and then wait for Black Friday to see if you can get a discount on a second set. This allows you to hedge your bets and minimize the risk of missing out entirely.

So, What's the Verdict, Guys?

Ultimately, the decision of whether to buy two Lego Rivendell sets now or wait for Black Friday is a personal one. There's no right or wrong answer, and the best choice for you will depend on your individual circumstances, budget, and risk tolerance.

If you're a hardcore Lord of the Rings fan with a strong desire to expand the set and you're comfortable with the price, buying two sets now might be the way to go. You'll get the satisfaction of owning and building a truly epic creation, and you won't have to worry about the uncertainties of Black Friday.

However, if you're on a tighter budget or you're willing to take a chance on a potential discount, waiting for Black Friday might be a reasonable option. Just be aware of the risks involved, and be prepared to act quickly if a good deal becomes available.

And remember, the most important thing is to enjoy the process! Building Lego sets is a rewarding hobby, and the Rivendell set is a masterpiece that's sure to bring joy to any Lord of the Rings fan. Whether you buy one set or two, now or later, the experience of building and displaying this iconic location is something truly special. Happy building, everyone!