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LEGO Donkey Kong's Tree House: Collector's Guide to Retired Set

Last Updated: November 8, 2025

LEGO Donkey Kong's Tree House Expansion Set (71424) featuring Donkey Kong and Cranky Kong figures.

The LEGO Super Mario: Donkey Kong's Tree House Expansion Set (71424), a fan-favorite addition to the interactive theme, was officially retired in November 2024. After a successful 15-month production run, this vibrant jungle build has left retail shelves and transitioned into a sought-after item on the secondary market.

For collectors looking to complete their LEGO Super Mario universe or fans who missed its initial release, this guide serves as the definitive resource on the set's features, value, and lasting appeal.

A Deep Dive into Donkey Kong's Tree House

Released on August 1, 2023, the Donkey Kong's Tree House Expansion Set quickly became a highlight of the LEGO Super Mario line. Comprising 555 pieces, this set invited builders aged 8 and up to construct Donkey Kong's iconic home, packed with interactive elements designed to expand the digital coin-collecting gameplay.

The set was particularly notable for introducing two key figures from the Donkey Kong Country saga to the LEGO world: a triumphant Donkey Kong and the perpetually grumpy (but wise) Cranky Kong. These figures produce unique digital reactions and sounds when an interactive LEGO Mario, Luigi, or Peach figure (sold separately in Starter Courses) jumps on their action tiles.

Key features of the set include:

  • Interactive Play: Builders can have their hero figure jump on Donkey Kong's back, "play" the conga drums, nap in the hammock, give DK a banana, or visit Cranky Kong to earn digital coins.
  • Authentic Details: The tree house features a buildable TV and radio, a secret compartment, and an aesthetic that perfectly captures the charm of the Donkey Kong Country games.
  • Exclusive Character: While Donkey Kong is slated to return in the upcoming LEGO Mario Kart line, the 71424 Tree House remains the only set to ever include the Cranky Kong figure, making it an essential purchase for character completists.
  • Expansion Potential: As an Expansion Set, it was designed to seamlessly connect with any LEGO Super Mario Starter Course and other sets, allowing builders to create massive, custom jungle-themed levels.

The Legacy of a Retired LEGO Set

When LEGO retires a set, it means the company has permanently ceased production. For the Donkey Kong's Tree House, this occurred in November 2024. Once the initial retail stock sold out, the set became exclusively available through third-party sellers and secondary markets like eBay and BrickLink.

Retired sets, especially those tied to popular franchises like Nintendo and containing exclusive figures, often become collectibles. While its value has not yet seen a dramatic spike, a new, factory-sealed Donkey Kong's Tree House is now valued at approximately $50—below its original $60 retail price but higher than the deep discounts seen just before its retirement. This positions it as an accessible collectible with potential for future appreciation.

Finding the Set in Today's Market

With the set no longer available in stores, prospective buyers must turn to online marketplaces. The original promotional discount to $42 is a thing of the past. Today, prices are dictated by supply and demand. Buyers should expect to pay around the $50 mark for a new-in-box set, though prices can fluctuate. Used, complete sets can often be found for a lower price, offering a more budget-friendly way to add the unique play features and characters to a collection. Always check a seller's reputation and ensure the set is complete, especially if purchasing a used copy.

Why This Set Is a Must-Have for Collectors

Even after its retirement, the Donkey Kong's Tree House Expansion Set offers several compelling reasons for purchase:

  • The Only Source for Cranky Kong: This cannot be overstated. For collectors who want every character from the LEGO Super Mario universe, this set is non-negotiable as the sole home of the Cranky Kong figure.
  • A Unique DK Experience: The combination of play features—from the conga drums to the hammock—provides a gameplay loop wholly unique to the Donkey Kong wave of sets.
  • Cornerstone of a Collection: This set was the flagship of the Donkey Kong sub-theme and serves as the perfect centerpiece for any display or level featuring Diddy Kong, Dixie Kong, and Funky Kong from the other retired expansion sets.
  • Investment Potential: As a retired set with an exclusive figure from a beloved Nintendo property, its long-term value for collectors is likely to grow over time.

The blend of interactive play, faithful character representation, and its now-exclusive retired status solidifies the Donkey Kong's Tree House Expansion Set as a highly desirable item for LEGO and Nintendo fans alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "retired" mean for a LEGO set? When a LEGO set is retired, it means LEGO has officially stopped producing it. Once the existing inventory at retailers sells out, it is no longer available for purchase through official channels and can only be acquired on the secondary market.

Is this set compatible with other LEGO Super Mario sets? Yes, the Donkey Kong's Tree House Expansion Set is fully compatible with all LEGO Super Mario Starter Courses (featuring LEGO Mario, Luigi, or Peach) and other Expansion Sets. It is designed to be integrated into larger, custom-built levels.

Are the LEGO Mario, Luigi, or Peach figures included in this set? No, this is an Expansion Set. The interactive LEGO Mario, Luigi, or Peach figures are sold separately in their respective Starter Course sets (which are still in production) and are required to unlock the full interactive play features of the Donkey Kong's Tree House.

Where can I buy this set now? As a retired product, the set can be found on online secondary marketplaces such as eBay, BrickLink, and through third-party sellers on Amazon. Prices will vary based on the set's condition (new or used) and the seller.