LEGO 11390 Dragon Ball Shenron & Goku - First Set Revealed
LEGO 11390 Dragon Ball: Shenron & Goku opens a completely new chapter for LEGO anime builds. The 1,764-piece Icons model recreates the Eternal Dragon in a dramatic coiled pose, rising above all seven Dragon Balls while Kid Goku rides Kintoun through the centre of the composition. Designed for ages 18 and over and scheduled for release on November 1st, this first LEGO Dragon Ball set is unmistakably a display piece. Its real building interest lies in turning Shenron's long, looping body, flowing scales and sculpted claws into a structure that looks airborne rather than simply stacked.
LEGO 11390 Dragon Ball: Shenron & Goku Quick Facts
| Set number | 11390 |
|---|---|
| Name | Dragon Ball: Shenron & Goku |
| Theme | LEGO Icons |
| Pieces | 1,764 |
| Age | 18+ |
| Release date | November 1st |
| Main build | Shenron rising from the seven Dragon Balls |
| Character | Kid Goku figure riding Kintoun |
| Display features | Poseable dragon head and claws; detachable and repositionable Goku |
Why Shenron Is the Right Opening Build
Choosing Shenron for the first set makes the debut feel broader than a single character statue. The dragon represents the wish-making mythology at the heart of the original Dragon Ball series, and his extended body creates a display shape unlike the upright figures that dominate many brick-built character collections. Goku remains essential, but his smaller position on Kintoun gives the dragon room to control the scene.
The arrangement tells a complete story without needing a large landscape. Shenron rises, the seven Dragon Balls explain why he has appeared, and Kid Goku supplies human scale and movement. All three meet around one central vertical composition, making the model readable even from across a shelf.
A Coiled Dragon Built Around Motion
Shenron's body is the technical and visual core. The long form loops upward, so the structure must support changing directions while keeping the curve smooth. Flowing scales break up the surface, sculpted claws punctuate the outline, and the raised head gives the dragon a focal point. Posing the head and claws changes the expression without rebuilding the statue.
Kid Goku rides Kintoun at the heart of the model and can be detached and repositioned. He can remain inside the coil for a tightly framed scene or move elsewhere for a more open silhouette. His distinctive hair element keeps the figure recognisable beside a much larger creature.
At the bottom, seven 2x2 bricks represent the Dragon Balls. They are more than decoration around a stand; they give the base a narrative purpose and visually connect the sweeping dragon above with the event that summoned him. The result is a scene assembled around one moment rather than a dragon placed on an anonymous plinth.
Builder's Perspective: Controlling a Long, Looping Silhouette
The most instructive aspect is how the dragon's weight is organised through a fluid shape. The turns need enough variation to look organic while still leading the eye toward the head. Repeated scale modules establish texture, changes in angle stop the body reading like a rigid tube, and the claws provide sharp pauses against the longer curves.
Creature builders can take three useful ideas from the design. An elongated animal can gain height within a compact area; poseable extremities add expression without weakening the whole sculpt; and a small Goku and Kintoun assembly makes Shenron feel immense without requiring a full environment.
The base is also worth studying. Seven repeated elements create symmetry, while the ascending body keeps the lower section from feeling static. The same relationship could support custom serpents, spirits or magical summons.
Display and MOC Ideas for Summoning Shenron
A circular shrine is the most natural expansion. Place the seven Dragon Balls around a tiled ring, add shallow steps and leave the centre open so Shenron's upward movement remains visible. Translucent energy effects or a dramatic backlight could frame the coil without covering its profile.
A rocky base with cracked ground could anchor the scene while keeping the dragon above every surrounding detail. Another route is an original-series adventure vignette: extend one side into a path for Goku, add a flight stand for Kintoun and gather the Dragon Balls opposite it.
A simple shelf treatment could use a round black riser and lighting from below to pick out the spaces between Shenron's coils. A brick-built red circle behind the upper body would create a graphic frame. Low platforms on either side could hold future character builds while Shenron remains the tall central landmark.
Final Thoughts: A Debut with Mythic Scale
LEGO 11390 Dragon Ball: Shenron & Goku is a confident starting point for the partnership because it combines an unmistakable character with a demanding creature-building problem. Shenron supplies the scale and sculptural presence; the Dragon Balls explain the scene; and Kid Goku keeps the original adventure at its centre. It should appeal most to adult Dragon Ball fans who want one substantial shelf piece, as well as creature builders interested in coiling forms, modular texture and carefully controlled posing.
FAQ
How many pieces are in LEGO 11390 Dragon Ball: Shenron & Goku?
The set contains 1,764 pieces.
When is LEGO 11390 Dragon Ball: Shenron & Goku released?
It is scheduled for release on November 1st.
Is 11390 the first LEGO Dragon Ball set?
Yes. It launches the LEGO Group's partnership with Toei Animation and begins the LEGO Dragon Ball collection.
Can Shenron and Goku be repositioned?
Shenron's head and claws can be posed, while Kid Goku on Kintoun can be detached and repositioned.
What are the seven elements at the base?
Seven 2x2 bricks represent the seven Dragon Balls that summon Shenron.
