Pokémon Meets Lego: A New Era of Interactive Play
The world of Pokémon is set to take a new turn with the introduction of dedicated Lego Smart Play sets. This exciting collaboration brings together two beloved franchises, offering an array of buildable and interactive figures that fans can enjoy. With twelve new kits in the lineup, each featuring iconic and popular Pokémon, this release promises to captivate both young and old.
What Makes the Lego Pokémon Smart Play Sets Unique?
At the heart of these sets are the newly introduced Lego Smart Bricks. These bricks allow players to interact with their Lego Pokémon creations, lighting up and chirping when connected with reactive NFC tiles. This feature, similar to what was seen in the Star Wars sets, adds an extra layer of engagement and fun.
There are two ‘All-in-One’ sets available, which include larger builds alongside a dedicated Smart Brick. One features Pikachu and a Training House, while the other showcases Charizard and Jolteon in an ‘Ultimate Battle’. Additionally, there are multiple ‘Compatible’ kits that can be used alongside the All-in-One sets.
For those new to the Smart Play concept, it’s essential to start with an All-in-One kit as it includes the crucial Smart Brick. This brick generates the lights and sounds needed for interactive play. If you already own one from the Star Wars series, it will also be compatible with these new sets.
The Vision Behind the Collaboration
The goal of this collaboration is to bridge the gap between traditional physical play and interactive screen play. The Smart Bricks add an immersive layer of discovery, especially for younger audiences. While some may find the technology a bit gimmicky, the joy of hearing Pokémon sounds or seeing them light up makes it all worthwhile.
Gaku Susai, Chief Product and Experience Officer at The Pokémon Company International, shared his thoughts on the partnership. “Pokémon has always been about the joy of discovery and connection,” he said. “We see every day how powerful imagination can be when it’s nurtured and given the space to grow.”
“Working with the Lego Group and its Smart Brick technology brings those shared values to life in a new, interactive way. Together, we’re giving young Trainers a hands-on way to engage with the world of Pokémon, as well as opening up new possibilities for a new generation of fans.”
Pricing and Availability in Australia
The first wave of Lego Pokémon Smart Play releases includes 12 sets, with two All-in-One sets and 10 additional compatible sets. Here’s a breakdown of the prices for the All-in-One sets in Australia:
- Training House with Pikachu (All-In-One, 400pcs) – $129.99
- Charizard vs. Jolteon Ultimate Battle (All-In-One, 751pcs) – $199.99
The 10 compatible sets have a wider price range. Here are the details:
- Berry Bash with Bulbasaur and Bidoof (Compatible, 240pcs) – $34.99
- Trainer’s Buggy Adventure with Squirtle (Compatible, 320pcs) – $54.99
- Charmander and Geodude’s Cavern Clash (Compatible, 198pcs) – $34.99
- Sprigatito, Fuecoco and Quaxly Battle (Compatible, 313pcs) – $59.99
- Jigglypuff Concert (Compatible, 88pcs) – $24.99
- Drone Search for Mythical Mew (Compatible, 429pcs) – $99.99
- Eevee and Lapras’ Treasure Hunt (Compatible, 623pcs) – $109.99
- Mewtwo’s Lab Break (Compatible, 605pcs) – $119.99
- Umbreon vs. Garchomp Championship Battle (Compatible, 831pcs) – $139.99
- Cube and Gengar’s Spooky Showdown (Compatible, 782 pcs) – $159.99
All Lego Pokémon Smart Play sets will be available on 1 August. Pre-orders are now open on the Lego website and in-store.
The Evolution of Lego
Lego’s audience has notably shifted over the last two decades, moving from primarily young kids with creative imaginations to older adult collectors who often leave their Lego creations on shelves. This shift can be attributed to the evolution of technology.
With the internet now accessible to children, offering a world of brightness, colour, and knowledge where the price of entry is typically low or free, the nature of play has changed. Kids are more likely to engage in virtual worlds where anything seems possible. As a result, Lego has had to adapt and evolve to stay relevant.
This new line of Pokémon Smart Play sets is a testament to that evolution, blending traditional building with interactive technology to create a unique and engaging experience for fans of all ages.
