How to Build LEGO Games

Determine what kind of game and game pieces to make. Classic games, such as chess and backgammon, are easily recreated in LEGO, however newer games, such as Risk and Carcassonne, can be copied in LEGO, as well.

If you want to create your own game, think about what makes LEGO special--a game where players create and copy objects from the toy bricks can be interesting. If you invent your own game, write down the rules and share them with friends who might be interested in playing the game.

Using LEGO bricks and plates, construct the pieces or counters. A classic way to create counters is to use LEGO minifigs. These little figures can be personalized and integrate nicely with the LEGO brick system. Minifigs are perfect for games like chess or Monopoly, and they can be customized with different bodies, hats and hair. LEGO's website sells various minifigs, separately.

Standard bricks are excellent for pieces and counters, as well. A little creativity can allow all sorts of possibilities. Define the pieces by color, size or shape for different players or uses. Try to keep the pieces relatively small so they are scaled correctly with the LEGO game board or game table.

Copy the game's board with LEGO plates and bricks. Checkers, backgammon and chess will translate directly into LEGO. Games like Risk and Carcassonne will require some imagination because the irregular forms of these types of game boards do not directly match with the square modules of LEGOs. However, this is where your creativity can really come into play. Maybe your version is better or different than the original board game.

Place the pieces onto the LEGO game board and see if the scale of the two is appropriate.

Play the game. If the changeable nature of LEGO bricks lends itself to the game play, change the game's rules to accommodate the toy bricks. Accentuate what makes a LEGO game different than a traditional game--construction and variation.