Lego is bringing its smart technology to a Pokémon line for the first time, announcing 12 new sets that use interactive bricks and tags. The collection is called Lego Pokémon Smart Play. Until this announcement, the company’s Smart Play system had been exclusive to Star Wars-themed builds.
The new range marks a shift in Lego’s approach to the creatures. Earlier models, like the nostalgic Pikachu and Charizard builds, targeted adult collectors in the 18+ demographic. The Smart Play lineup, by contrast, is aimed at younger players. It mirrors the strategy behind the modular Mario-themed kits, which have been commercially successful for the firm.
How the smart bricks work
The system relies on a central Smart Brick that can be placed inside a Pokémon figure. The device detects Smart Tags — small adhesive stickers or discs that tell it how to behave. Depending on the tag, it triggers sounds, lights, or interactions. Each all-in-one package includes a charger, at least one brick, and multiple tags.
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The company is not selling the Smart Brick separately. That means buyers need to purchase at least one all-in-one kit to unlock the interactive features for any smaller models they own.
Two flagship all-in-one sets
The most expensive option is the Charizard vs. Jolteon Ultimate Battle kit for $120. It contains an 18cm Charizard figure and a 12cm Jolteon, two Smart Bricks, four tags, and a charger. A brick fits into each creature to unlock battle sounds and interactions. A Smart Tag-enhanced healing spray can restore health during play, and an interactive target helps with training. It is designed for one-on-one battles.
The other all-in-one package is the Training House with Pikachu for $70. It includes one Smart Brick and four tags. Along with a Pikachu figure, it features a brick-built tree house, a training target, a Poké Ball, and a miniature sandwich. According to the announcement, the idea is that players “nurture, feed, play, train and battle” the character, channeling the experience of a Pokémon trainer.
The smaller sets rely on the smart brick
The remaining 10 products are simpler builds, each focused on one or more characters. Most are familiar faces from the first generation: Jigglypuff, Bulbasaur, Bidoof, and others. They cost between $15 and roughly $50.
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On their own, these builds function as standard Lego constructions. But with a Smart Brick inserted, they become interactive. Jigglypuff can use its built-in microphone and speakers. Bulbasaur and Bidoof react to being moved. The functionality is limited without it, so the all-in-one kits serve as the entry point to the full experience.
The full list of launch packages includes the two all-in-one kits plus smaller packs like Pikachu’s Beach Fun, Bulbasaur’s Flower Surprise, Jigglypuff’s Star Performance, and Bidoof’s Snack Break.
Names and prices were confirmed in the company’s announcement.
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In-store events and Pokémon GO integration
They have also announced that select stores will become PokéStops and Gyms in the Pokémon GO app. Between August and September 2026, players can unlock exclusive rewards both in the game and at physical locations. Rewards include a Lego Smart Tag, unique digital backgrounds, Lego Pokémon stickers, and branded apparel available through the Pokémon GO app.
All 12 products are available for pre-order now. The release date is August 1, at Lego stores and through the company’s website. The cheapest product costs $15, while the full-featured Charizard vs. Jolteon kit reaches $120.
The smart brick system, while novel for Pokémon, still requires a relatively expensive starter purchase to unlock the full experience for the smaller builds. That could be a barrier for families on a tighter budget, though the low entry price of $15 for a basic figure might still pull in casual buyers.
