Lego reveals 12 Pokémon sets with Smart Play technology

Lego revealed 12 new Pokémon sets that expand its lineup of brick-based pocket monsters. All are up for pre-order starting today, and the new models use the company’s Smart Play technology, the same system seen in recent Star Wars releases. Smart Play hinges on a bite-sized Smart Brick about the size and weight of a normal Lego brick.

It adds dynamic lights and reactive sound, and can communicate with Smart Tags and Smart Minifigures to create responsive interactions; in Star Wars sets, for example, Smart Play can simulate a ship shooting down an enemy fighter. The Pokémon lineup includes original starters and fan favorites such as Squirtle, Charmander, Bulbasaur, Jigglypuff, Pikachu, Mewtwo, Eevee, Gengar, Mew, Garchomp and Charizard.

Some sets feature single Pokémon while others pair creatures like Geodude, Lapras, Umbreon, Cubone, Bidoof and Jolteon. Set complexity ranges from fewer than 100 bricks to models just under 850 pieces.

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