Why the two SMART Bricks matter
Most Pokémon SMART Play Compatible sets include tags but no SMART Brick. Set 72167 includes two Bricks, a charger and four tags, making it a complete entry point and giving both Charizard and Jolteon responsive hardware for battle play. LEGO says each SMART Brick provides about 45 minutes of play per charge.
Screen use and app requirements
LEGO says a phone or tablet is not required for core SMART Play interaction. We therefore classify the play as screen-free core, app-optional ownership. The SMART Assist app can help with setup, firmware updates, sound settings and troubleshooting. LEGO also notes the app can activate a built-in microphone, with permission and firmware support, for potential future features.
Is this an AI toy?
We do not classify set 72167 as a generative AI toy. The SMART Brick reacts to movement and SMART Tags with lights, sounds and programmed interactions. Parents comparing conversational AI products should treat this as responsive interactive building technology instead.
Value compared with Pikachu 72164
The Pikachu Training House 72164 is the lower-cost complete starter at $69.99 and includes one SMART Brick. Charizard/Jolteon costs $50 more at the current official price, but adds a second SMART Brick, larger build and two major Pokémon. Families expecting several Compatible expansions may get more hardware value from the two-Brick starter.
Strengths
- Two SMART Bricks included
- Complete All-in-One setup
- 751-piece build
- Strong expansion value for future Compatible sets
Tradeoffs
- $119.99 official price
- Charging is part of ownership
- Optional app still matters for updates
- Small LEGO pieces require age-appropriate storage
Verdict
Choose 72167 when the child strongly prefers Charizard/Jolteon or the family expects to build a larger SMART Play collection. For a first experiment with the platform, Pikachu 72164 is the cheaper complete entry point.
Compare all six reviewed LEGO Pokémon SMART Play sets →