LEGO Hidden Side Set: Where Imagination Meets Augmented Reality

April 9, 2025 Emery Person

If you thought LEGO was just about bricks and mini-figures, think again. The LEGO Hidden Side set has taken the iconic toy brand into the world of augmented reality (AR), blending physical building with digital play in a way that thrills both kids and adult collectors. But what exactly is LEGO Hidden Side? Why has it become such a standout series for LEGO fans?

Let’s dive into this ghost-hunting, puzzle-solving LEGO universe and explore everything you need to know about LEGO Hidden Side.

What Is LEGO Hidden Side?

Launched in 2019, LEGO Hidden Side is a spooky-themed LEGO series that combines traditional LEGO sets with AR features via a companion mobile app. The theme revolves around Newbury, a haunted town where ghosts lurk, and ghost hunters—led by heroes Jack and Parker—battle paranormal activity.

Here’s what makes it unique:

Hybrid gameplay: Physical building + digital ghost-hunting via AR.
App integration: Interact with the set using a smartphone or tablet.
Story-driven design: Each set adds to an overarching storyline.

Whether you’re building a haunted high school or exploring a ghost train, Hidden Side sets bring a new layer of creativity and adventure.

Key Features of LEGO Hidden Side Sets

Augmented Reality Integration

The LEGO Hidden Side app is where the magic happens. Once you build a set, you scan it using the app to:

Reveal hidden ghosts
Solve puzzles and unlock levels
Play mini-games and earn rewards

This immersive AR experience adds a modern twist that keeps kids engaged long after the building is complete.

Rich Storytelling

Every set contributes to an evolving story centered around Jack and Parker, teenage ghost hunters, and their ghost-dog Spencer. There are recurring villains like Nehmaar Reem and ghostly transformations that unfold as you explore more sets.

This storytelling approach enhances the replayability and collectibility of each set.

Diverse Set Designs

LEGO Hidden Side offers a range of sets from small to large, including:

J.B.’s Ghost Lab – A great starter set with fun experiments.
The Mystery Castle – A larger, more complex build with spooky surprises.
The Paranormal Intercept Bus 3000 – A school bus turned ghost-hunting machine.

Each set includes interactive features, hidden levers, rotating walls, and color-coded gears for AR scanning.

Top LEGO Hidden Side Sets to Look Out For

1. The Mystery Castle (70437)

One of the most detailed and sought-after Hidden Side sets, this eerie castle features trap doors, secret rooms, and plenty of AR-triggering spots. It’s a perfect choice for serious builders and ghost story lovers.

Why it stands out:

Over 1,000 pieces
Hidden chambers and play features
AR game missions and boss battles

2. The Haunted High School (70425)

School has never been this spooky! This set transforms a typical school building into a haunted battlefield filled with ghostly ghouls.

Highlights:

Fun school details like lockers and classrooms
Shifting walls to reveal the “haunted side”
Multiple mini-figures and ghost transformations

3. The Ghost Train Express (70424)

A train that turns haunted mid-ride? Count us in. This set is both a classic train build and a supernatural playset.

Key features:

Functional tracks and train cars
Ghost wings that appear during AR play
Glow-in-the-dark elements

Why LEGO Hidden Side Appeals to Kids and Adults Alike

LEGO Hidden Side isn’t just for kids. Here’s why AFOLs (Adult Fans of LEGO) love it too:

Innovative gameplay: A fresh approach that reinvents how we interact with LEGO.
Creative building: Detailed, imaginative builds that challenge and inspire.
Collectibility: Short production run and unique mini-figures make them sought after.

For kids, it’s all about adventure and interaction. For adults, it’s the tech, the design, and the thrill of the hunt—whether that’s ghosts or rare sets.

Is LEGO Hidden Side Still Available?

LEGO officially retired the Hidden Side theme in 2020, which has made many sets highly collectible. While you won’t find them on LEGO.com anymore, there are still plenty of ways to snag them:

Amazon
eBay
BrickLink
LEGO resellers and toy fairs

Keep in mind, prices may vary, especially for sealed or rare sets.

Tips for Collectors and Parents

If you’re thinking about diving into Hidden Side, here are a few helpful tips:

Download the app before buying to check compatibility.
Store boxes and manuals if collecting for long-term value.
Buy sealed sets if you plan to resell in the future.
Look for bundles to get better value on multiple sets.

And don’t forget—Hidden Side sets are still playable even without the app. The builds alone offer hours of fun.

Final Thoughts: LEGO Hidden Side Is a Ghostly Good Time

Whether you’re hunting spirits or just building a creepy castle, LEGO Hidden Side delivers a creative experience unlike any other LEGO line. It blends digital thrills with hands-on building, creating a play experience that’s both modern and timeless.