LEGO Dinosaur Fossils: Triceratops Skull (76969) Review – A Roaringly Good Build

For fans of dinosaurs, LEGO and all things prehistoric, the Dinosaur Fossils: Triceratops Skull (76969) set is the latest addition to the LEGO Jurassic World range. Released at the start of this year, this 468-piece set brings a touch of palaeontology into the world of bricks alongside it’s prehistoric predecessor, the T. Rex Skull set (76964). 

But how does the Triceratops Skull set shape up? Let’s dig into the bones of it all (sorry).

The Build Experience

Building the Triceratops skull is a satisfying challenge. The complexity and interesting shapes of the Triceratops Skull itself may have you turning to the step-by-step instructions slightly more often than usual, but there’s never any confusion during the build itself. 

The resulting model is an intricate and realistic replica of the Triceratops’ markedly distinct skull. The posable jaw adds an interactive element, allowing for slight customization once you’re ready to display it.

The build doesn’t stop there, however - the finished set also includes a dig site plate featuring mini-fossils and tools. These small details are more than just an afterthought, turning a single statement piece into a larger exhibit scene.

With a relatively low piece-count, we feel the set is very well priced, delivering an enjoyable and unique build with a solid piece-to-price ratio.

The Finished Set

The completed Triceratops skull stands proudly on a rock-textured base, akin to a display piece in a museum. It’s a well crafted set with special attention to creating an authentic and accurate version of its real-world counterpart. The included plaque adds an educational touch, giving information about the Triceratops’ diet, size and more.

Adding to the charm is a unique Jurassic Park-themed minifigure, featuring a dual-sided torso with the iconic Jurassic Park logo. Accessories like a magnifying glass, spade, and an amber piece round out the experience, making this a true homage to both science and pop culture.

Limited Playability 

Of course, with any LEGO set designed primarily for display rather than dynamic play, the Triceratops itself makes for a pretty static experience. Anyone picking up this set should bear that in mind, but the likelihood is that if you’re in the market for an exhibit-like LEGO set, you’re probably planning much action for it!

When Dinosaurs Ruled the Earth

Given the Jurassic Park licensing that supports the set, the set includes some elements to keep the LEGO relevant to the IP itself. In this case, the set contains both a plaque and minifigure sporting the Jurassic World logo. Neither of these elements diminish the set at all, but as they aren’t integral to the set’s build or stability, you can remove them for a fossil-focused showcase.

Final Verdict

The LEGO Jurassic World Dinosaur Fossils: Triceratops Skull (76969) set blends science, history, and creativity into a single, well-designed model. While it may not have the action-packed playability of other Jurassic-themed LEGO sets, its detailed design makes it a must-have for dinosaur lovers and collectors alike.

Taking The Triceratops to the Next Level

If you’re looking for that finishing touch to keep your fossil safe or transform it into a real shelf-showcase, our Limited Edition Display Case for the set could be exactly what you’re looking for. Our dust-proof displays not only protect your set from damage, but also make cleaning a breeze rather than a delicate operation.

With a scenic background and printed front panel, your standalone Triceratops Skull set becomes a newly unearthed archeological discovery enclosed between foliage and rock faces. Plus, our included Limited Edition plaques give additional details about the set itself, as well as numbering your display to make it truly unique.