Lego's Smart Bricks get a Pokémon makeover, and the tie-in with the popular cartoon franchise takes the fledgling technology to the next level. These USB-chargeable 4x2 bricks work like normal Legos but interact with 'tags' placed on builds, producing lights and sounds unique to each design.
Interactive Play Without Screens
For example, kids building their own Pikachu from one of the 12 new sets can feed him a Smart Brick sandwich, triggering an eating sound from the tag on the squared grub. They can even get a joyful laugh from a Charizard by 'tickling' it.
It's all about merging classic Lego building playtime with modern technology to bring toys to life without screens—something parents can appreciate.
Set Reviews: Training House and Ultimate Battle
The Training House with Pikachu (£59.99) offers 400 pieces with a Pikachu-inspired tree house, the character, training items, a Poké Ball, and a buildable sandwich. It's great for younger fans with smaller builds, and one Smart Brick brings Pikachu to life with critter noises as you train and shake him.
The Charizard vs. Jolteon Ultimate Battle set (£109.99) has 751 pieces and two Smart Bricks, charged via the yellow USB pad included. Kids can play as Pokémon Trainers, catching, bonding, and training for battle. All sets interact, so kids can battle their creatures, with Smart Bricks responding to 'battle' and producing fighting noises before declaring a winner.
More Sets and Official Comments
Other sets include Bulbasaur, Charmander, Squirtle, Gengar, Eevee, and Mew. Julia Goldin of the Lego Group said: "We are thrilled to bring together two beloved brands that are known worldwide. For the first time ever, Lego Pokémon creatures respond to children’s actions... Smart Play is an expansion of our existing Lego System-in-Play and we are excited to integrate it into our latest Pokémon sets."
Gaku Susai of The Pokémon Company International added: "Pokémon has always been about the joy of discovery and connection... Working with the Lego Group and its Smart Brick technology brings those shared values to life in a new, interactive way."
