Brainiac
sh155 · DC Super Heroes
Justice League · 2015 - Released as part of the 'Brainiac Attacks' wave, coinciding with the LEGO Batman 3: Beyond Gotham video game era where modern printing techniques allowed for more complex character designs.
Figure ID
sh155
Theme
DC Super Heroes
Year Released
2015 - Released as part of the 'Brainiac Attacks' wave, coinciding with the LEGO Batman 3: Beyond Gotham video game era where modern printing techniques allowed for more complex character designs.
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare. This specific version was exclusive to a single retail set (76040) and has never been remade in this classic comic-book styling.
Head
Bright Green with a skeptical facial expression (arched eyebrow). Features the signature three-node cybernetic connector (electrodes) printed in dark purple and magenta on the forehead.
Torso
Black torso with white and silver pectoral plating printing. Includes magenta 'circuit' conduit tubing running diagonally across the chest. Back printing continues the silver plating and conduit details. Arms are black with lime green hands.
Legs
Plain black legs. Minimalist design to focus attention on the highly detailed torso and head printing.
Accessories
Original set included a Supergirl minifigure and Brainiac's 'Skull Ship.' The figure itself often came with a pearl dark gray 1x2 remote control tile or translucent purple power blasts in other media, though none are shown here.
Color Scheme
Primary Lime Green, Black, and White with Magenta and Silver metallic accents. This matches the classic 'Silver Age' to 'Modern' comic book appearance of the character.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing. The torso features metallic silver ink which has a slight reflective sheen. The head printing is precise, aligning the nodes perfectly with the stud of the head.
Variants
There is a 'Mighty Micros' version (sh230) with short legs and stylized cartoony features, making this (sh155) the only standard, comic-accurate version released to date.
Condition Notes
Common wear points include silver printing rub-off on the torso edges and 'bite marks' or scratches on the lime green head. The lime green plastic is generally resistant to yellowing but can show grime easily.
Estimated Value
Used: $15.00 - $22.00; New (pulled from set): $25.00 - $35.00. Value has remained steady as fans of the LEGO Batman games seek him to complete their villain rosters.
Price (New)
The set it appeared in (76040) retailed for $24.99 USD in 2015. Given the set contained 4 minifigures, the original value per figure was roughly $6.25.
Compatible Sets
76040 Brainiac Attack (2015).
Character Background
Brainiac is a frequent Superman antagonist, an extraterrestrial cyborg from the planet Colu. He is known for shrinking and bottling cities (like Kandor) to preserve them in his quest for absolute knowledge.
Design Notes
The decision to use a lime green head instead of traditional yellow or flesh tone is a standout feature. The silver printing was innovative for 2015 DC sets, providing a technological 'cyborg' feel.
Similar Minifigures
Lex Luthor (sh012), Martian Manhunter (sh008), and various Superman/Supergirl figures from the same 2015 wave.
Collectibility
High. As the primary antagonist of a major LEGO video game and a core member of the Legion of Doom, he is a 'must-have' for DC Comics collectors.
History
This 2015 release marked the first time Brainiac appeared as a standard LEGO minifigure, following years of fan demand. He has not been re-released in a standard set since 2015.
Interesting Facts
The magenta conduit tubes on the torso are a direct reference to his appearance in the 'New 52' comic run and the LEGO Batman 3 video game.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed inside a 'Bottle City of Kandor' MOC or next to the 76040 Skull Ship. Looks excellent when paired with other members of the Legion of Doom on a black display stand.
Modification Potential
The head is frequently used for custom Martian Manhunter variants or generic alien MOCs. The torso is excellent for custom space-themed cybernetic soldiers.
Overall Assessment
A top-tier licensed minifigure. The metallic silver printing and unique head nodes make it instantly recognizable. It is the definitive LEGO representation of an iconic villain.