LEGO is rolling out its Pokémon Smart Play collection starting August 1, bringing interactive building sets powered by motion-sensing Smart Bricks that respond to how kids play with them. The full lineup spans 12 buildable Pokémon figures, ranging from pocket-sized creatures to larger flagship models, all priced between $14.99 and $120.
The Smart Play technology works through embedded bricks that detect movement and color, then trigger lights and sounds in response. Pikachu chirps happily when fed a sandwich. Charizard laughs when tickled. These aren't static display pieces meant for shelves, but toys designed for hands-on interaction and play.
Two core starter sets come loaded with the Smart Bricks needed to unlock the full interactive experience. The Training House with Pikachu runs $69.99 and includes one Smart Brick, a charger, and four Smart Tags across 400 pieces. The larger Charizard vs. Jolteon Ultimate Battle set costs $119.99 and packs two Smart Bricks, making it the premium entry point at 751 pieces.
The remaining 10 sets work with Smart Play but require one of the core sets to function fully. Prices drop to $14.99 for the smallest option, a Jigglypuff Concert build, and climb to $89.99 for the Cubone and Gengar's Spooky Showdown at 782 pieces. Mid-range options include the Eevee and Lapras Treasure Hunt at $59.99 and the Mewtwo's Lab Break at $69.99.
LEGO is sweetening the launch with a limited-time promotion: anyone spending $130 or more across the range gets a free exclusive set, Ditto as Squirtle Movie Night, while supplies last. The collection is available for pre-order now.
Beyond the physical sets, LEGO is integrating the launch with Pokémon Go. Stores in the U.S., U.K., Germany, France, Poland, and Australia will become PokéStop locations this August, where players can encounter creatures with unique LEGO-themed designs. In-game stickers and avatar items will also be unlocked as part of the crossover.
Author Emily Chen: "This is LEGO betting that kids want interactive play, not another shelf decoration, and the price ladder suggests they're serious about bringing different spending levels into the ecosystem."
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