Lego Unveils Exciting New Star Wars Sets for a New Generation
For over 70 years, Lego has captured the imaginations of both kids and adults, allowing them to construct anything they can dream up. Throughout this time, the company has adapted its offerings to cater to evolving tastes. Gone are the days of just rocket ships, cars, and police stations; now, a stroll down the Lego aisle reveals a vibrant array of sets inspired by Marvel, Star Wars, and even Fast & Furious. What could be more exciting than building versions of our favorite video games, movies, comic books, and TV shows?
On January 5, during the Consumer Electronics Show, Lego unveiled a potential game-changer: Lego Smart Play. This new initiative introduces smart technology to your Lego creations through an innovative smart brick. But it’s not just a single brick; the company also showcased three new Star Wars building sets designed to leverage Smart Play technology.
If you’re familiar with the Super Mario Lego sets that featured special bricks with electronic elements like sounds, Smart Play will feel like a natural progression. This new version promises significantly enhanced functionality. According to Lego, Smart Play will “bring play to life” with features like sensors, accelerometers, light sensing, a sound sensor, and a miniature speaker powered by an onboard synthesizer, along with easy wireless charging.
One of the most thrilling aspects of Smart Play is that it extends beyond just the smart brick. New Smart Play minifigures and smart “tags”—flat-topped two-by-two pieces—are also being introduced. By combining these with the Smart Play brick, which acts as the power source, you can create a range of interactive elements, visuals, sounds, and even animations, as teased in a promotional reel.
While the full capabilities of Smart Play remain to be seen, Lego knows how to engage its older audience, especially with the launch of three new Star Wars sets. These sets will be available for purchase starting March 1, with preorders opening on January 9. You can find them on Lego’s website, in standalone stores, and at various retailers.
Although these high-tech Star Wars sets may seem tailored for adult fans, Lego views this upgrade as a fresh way for kids to engage with their toys. Tom Donaldson, senior vice president and head of Creative Play Lab, stated, “We truly believe we are setting a new standard for interactive, imaginative experiences and can’t wait to see this innovation in the hands of kids when we launch this year.”
Parents, don’t worry if your child’s collection of assorted Lego bricks seems outdated; the Smart Play bricks, tags, and minifigures are compatible with existing sets. We’re excited to see how creative and ambitious Lego enthusiasts will get with their Smart Play builds.
The first three sets of Lego Smart Play will be available for pre-order on January 9, with a release date set for March 1.