Distinctions - Details of the LEGO Mad Scientist (Series 4) are not few and far between, from a goop stained lab coat, to futuristic goggles, to the bubbling beaker, to the eccentric spiky hair, there is no shortage of bespoke details.

Criticisms - The early series of blind minifigures from LEGO often had a shortage of other accessories or unique prints across all parts of the figure, so plain pants and a single accessory does not necessarily impress amongst peers of today.

Distinctions - As with most LEGO products, LEGO Mad Scientist (Series 4) incorporates strong pieces with tight tolerances and solid color palettes. Figure prints are generally very solid and have a strong luster that does not fade with time.

Criticisms - Extreme white-to-black contrast makes wear readily apparent on one of the two colors. Yellowing is possible with extended sun exposure.

Distinctions - Almost all elements of the design have thoughtful characteristics that help illustrate the Mad Scientist’s personality. The beaker is particularly remarkable, with a thin layer of exterior clear plastic over the green liquid element adding a sense of depth to the accessory.

Criticisms - Yellowing with time makes white pieces much less appealing, and the particular material used in the LEGO Mad Scientist (Series 4) does not restore easily with bleach based compounds.

Distinctions - LEGO is, as ever, strong in reuse and recyclability. Fully plastic designs are easily recyclable if desired, though freedom of LEGO assembly allows for continued use in as many contexts as can be conceptualized.

Criticisms - As always, the criticism to be had with LEGO products is their plastic base, as well as traditionally recyclable, but still disposable paper instructions and ink-heavy retail packaging. Reuse, quality and longevity of LEGO pieces offsets the plastic cost, but considering the over-sized nature of the box versus the contents, reductions are possible. The new molds for the LEGO Mad Scientist (Series 4) do come with an associated environmental cost.

Distinctions - Hard to find a larger catalogue of products that are still compatible with legacy sets, the LEGO Mad Scientist (Series 4) is also one of the most playable toys available for the price point.

Criticisms - LEGO’s major complaint with aficionados is the gradual price inflation and decrease of set sizes. This particular set manifests those reductions far more than others as the price tag is proportionally much higher than the cost of production. The inability to purchase directly the figure you want as well, relying on luck of the draw in blind bags also complicates acquiring the figure through non-reseller means.