Lego has launched smart bricks that bring the Star Wars universe to life with sound and light effects. These additions to the traditional bricks mean players won’t need to mimic noises anymore; the bricks will handle that.
The smart bricks resemble standard two-by-four blocks and will debut in three Star Wars-themed sets. They contain a tiny chip that activates sounds when players maneuver them, making the familiar “whoosh” noises of Luke Skywalker’s X-wing after various movements. They even replicate the beeps of droid R2D2. If you install another smart brick in Darth Vader’s TIE fighter, you can hear sounds that indicate when the ships hit each other during battles, adding a layer of realism to the play.
These bricks talk to one another, determining if a laser blast was effective enough to take out an enemy ship. They even light up and play music. At the recent CES reveal in Las Vegas, a Lego executive noted that the TIE fighter might occasionally play “The Imperial March” to enhance the fun.
The cost of incorporating this tech is significant. Luke’s X-wing, complete with a mini-figure, will set you back £79.99, while Vader’s ship is priced at £59.99. Some experts worry this tech could shift focus away from the imaginative play that Lego has always championed. One Reddit user voiced skepticism, stating that they can make sound effects on their own, questioning whether these smart bricks make all other bricks “stupid.”
Still, there’s excitement around the new smart elements, with one fan even speculating a Titanic set featuring a smart brick playing Céline Dion’s “My Heart Will Go On.” Lego has been crafting these iconic pieces for 70 years, adapting as kids increasingly gravitate toward screen-based play, like the 150 million daily users of Roblox.
Tom Donaldson, Lego’s senior vice president, insists that the new system merges creativity with technology, aiming to enhance storytelling and exploration—all without the need for screens.
Smart Bricks Revolutionize Play Experience
These smart bricks promise to elevate playtime by fusing technology with classic Lego fun. By producing sounds and lights, they aim to enhance interactions.
The toys cover a broad range of experiences:
- Custom sounds for characters
- Light features during play
- No screens needed for interaction
Mixed Reactions from the Community
Feedback on the smart bricks is diverse. While some users express skepticism, others are excited about the enhancements and possibilities.
Opinions vary:
- Concerns about imagination
- Enthusiasm for future products
- Mixed reviews on smart features
Market Launch and Pricing Details
The launch of these smart bricks marks Lego’s robust entry into interactive play. The pricing reflects an investment in this new technology.
Sets include:
- Luke Skywalker’s X-wing at £79.99
- Darth Vader’s TIE fighter at £59.99
