Early adopters report at CES 2026, Lego unveiled the impressive Lego Smart Play system, retailing for $70. This starter set includes a Smart Brick, Smart Tag, and a Darth Vader Minifigure-an enticing price for those seeking to merge classic play with modern technology.

In crafting the Smart Play system, Lego takes a step forward in the evolution of play experiences, showcasing a captivating blend of technology with traditional brick building. The inclusion of a 4.1mm ASIC chip enables Smart Bricks to respond to their environment, transforming standard building sets into platforms for interactive storytelling. This advancement appeals not only to children in search of engaging experiences but also to parents looking for innovative educational gifts that combine entertainment with developmental benefits. (The Morning After: The best of CES 2026)

What is Lego Smart Play?

Lego Smart Play integrates traditional building with smart technology, showcasing Smart Bricks equipped with sensors for motion, orientation, and sound. These pieces interact with one another, allowing for endless possibilities that extend beyond static constructions. The system is tailored to engage children educationally, fostering creativity and critical thinking through play.

Pricing and Set Options

The core component, the Smart Brick, houses a tiny speaker that emits sounds corresponding to the actions performed. For example, during an interactive duel, it plays audio clips like lightsaber sounds and iconic character quotes-providing a layer of immersion that standard Lego sets cannot match.

Who Should Buy and Who Should Skip?

The entry set, priced at $70, includes the Smart Brick, a Smart Tag, and a highly collectible Darth Vader Minifigure. Additional sets vary in price, ranging from $100 for Luke Skywalker’s Red Five X-Wing to $160 for the Throne Room Duel & A-Wing set, both offering more complex interactions and enhanced audio features.

Considering the price, while it's certainly higher than the average Lego set, the potential for open-ended play may justify the investment, particularly for dedicated fans and those looking to incorporate technology into playtime.

Setup and Privacy Considerations

Who Should Buy and Who Should Skip?

If you have a Star Wars enthusiast or a child who loves to craft stories with their toys, the Lego Smart Play system is a must-have. This innovative approach facilitates a new way to engage with Lego, enabling creative narratives that incorporate sound and motion.

Constraints and tradeoffs

• Higher cost than traditional Lego sets

• Requires storage for additional Smart components

Verdict

Buy if your kid loves Star Wars and engaging play experiences, but be prepared for a slight price bump compared to basic Lego sets.

However, if your child prefers traditional Lego building or is still developing motor skills, this might not be the best choice. The added complexity and higher price point could lead to frustration if their play style doesn't align with the expectations set by the Smart Play system.

Key numbers

• 2026

W (mentioned in The Morning After: The best of CES 2026)

• 4.1m (mentioned in The Morning After: The best of CES 2026)