The LEGO SpongeBob SquarePants theme was based on the Nickelodeon SpongeBob SquarePants television series and licensed by the LEGO Group in 2006. A number of sets were released over the five-year period ending in 2011. The sets werer based upon the adventures and life of SpongeBob SquarePants. The theme was discontinued when LEGO's rival, MEGA Brands, acquired the license for SpongeBob SquarePants.
2012 LEGO Sets
2012 was a landmark year highlighted by LEGO’s 80th anniversary and major licensed expansions. LEGO The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit joined the lineup alongside Marvel and DC Super Heroes, establishing enduring partnerships with both comic universes. LEGO Friends debuted, introducing mini-doll figures and Heartlake City, becoming one of LEGO’s most successful modern themes. Other launches included Monster Fighters, Disney Princess, and Dino. Alien Conquest, Atlantis, Pharaoh’s Quest, Kingdoms, and Harry Potter retired, though Harry Potter would later return in 2018.