Lego's Pokémon Smart Play Sets Bring Interactive Battles and Training to Builders

Lego’s latest venture applies its Smart Brick platform, previously seen in the Star Wars line, to a new Pokémon Smart Play range that hits stores on August 1. The collection is divided between all-in-one kits containing Smart Bricks and modular sets that rely on bricks from other builds. By inserting a Smart Brick into a Pokémon figure, the toy produces characteristic cries, can fall asleep, and interacts with neighboring figures, even initiating battles that calculate type match-ups, health points and fainting outcomes.

Players can restore health with potions or enhance abilities using dedicated training gear, mirroring core video-game mechanics. The assortment includes classic 151 creatures alongside later additions like Garchomp, Bidoof and the Gen 9 starter, with special touches such as a Masterball for Mewtwo and a sandwich accessory for feeding. While many designs capture the look of the originals, some faces appear overly blocky, leading to an uncanny feel for certain species. Sets are priced between $15 and $120, offering options for various budgets.