- Updated: March 11, 2026
- 2 min read
LEGO Smart Brick Play Review: Star Wars Sets Shine but Fall Short on Smart Features
LEGO’s latest venture into interactive play, the Smart Brick Play line, brings iconic Star Wars sets like the Throne Room, X‑Wing, and TIE Fighter to life with lights, sounds, Bluetooth connectivity, and NFC‑enabled bricks. While the design and build quality stay true to LEGO’s standards, the review from The Verge highlights several drawbacks that may limit the appeal for both kids and adult fans.
Key Features
- Integrated LEDs and speakers for authentic sound and lighting effects.
- Bluetooth connectivity enables control via the LEGO® Powered Up app.
- NFC tags inside bricks allow for custom actions and interactive storytelling.
- Multiple play modes, including guided missions and free‑play.
What Reviewers Loved
The sets capture the visual excitement of the Star Wars universe, and the modular design encourages creative building. The app provides a decent tutorial for first‑time users, and the ability to program simple sequences adds a layer of interactivity that traditional LEGO sets lack.
Where They Missed the Mark
- High Price Point: Each set costs significantly more than comparable non‑smart LEGO kits.
- Short Battery Life: The built‑in batteries drain quickly, especially when using lights and sound simultaneously.
- Limited Functionality: Many of the smart features are underutilized; kids often revert to classic building without engaging the tech.
- App Dependency: Full experience requires a stable Bluetooth connection and a compatible device.
Conclusion
LEGO Smart Brick Play offers an ambitious blend of physical building and digital interaction, but the execution falls short for everyday play. The sets are best suited for collectors or tech‑savvy families willing to invest in the hardware and navigate the app’s learning curve. For those seeking pure LEGO creativity, traditional sets remain the stronger choice.
Read the full review on The Verge for an in‑depth analysis.
Explore more about LEGO’s digital initiatives on our site: LEGO Digital Play.