Lego’s forthcoming Pokémon Smart Play sets use interactive Smart Bricks to make buildable Pokémon react, sleep, communicate and battle, bringing elements of the video games into physical play. The hands-on review finds this approach more naturally suited to Pokémon than Lego’s earlier Smart Play Star Wars range, because players can train creatures, manage health and exploit type advantages rather than simply recreate scenes.

The range includes standalone sets containing Smart Bricks and compatible expansion sets that need a Brick from another purchase. Battles track hit points and type match-ups, while accessories such as potions, training equipment and food affect Pokémon; the initial line-up spans original-generation characters and later favourites including Garchomp, Bidoof and Generation 9 starters. Sets also feature details such as Mewtwo’s Master Ball, Pokédex-numbered Smart Tags and distinctive, deliberately non-canonical Pokémon cries.