GoKawiilJames Bricknell/CNET
Lego and Star Wars have a long history together, and it's clear that the relationship is as strong as ever. I got to play with the new Lego Star Wars Smart Play sets and, despite being a little gimmicky, they are a whole heap of fun.
The X-wing build was a lot of fun, and I did get a kick out of the Smart Brick and the noise it makes. As you fly the X-wing around, R2-D2 squeals, and you can shoot lasers at the press of a button.
It doesn't add any bulk to the build either, just a simple brick that has a good volume and several accelerometers to add to the fun. One of the little buildings that comes in the box is an Empire laser turret that makes crashing sounds if you tip it over. It makes me giggle every time I do it.
The X-wing itself uses the brick to great effect. It makes all the movement noises as you fly around, but if you press the red button on top, it moves the brick forward, triggering the accelerometer and making the laser "pew pew" sound. Then, as it moves back into place, the NFC reads the R2-D2 tag and makes its noises as well. It really does work very well.
Overall, the $90 cost of the X-wing feels like a decent deal. The Smart Brick is not tied to the set you have, so it can be used in other sets eventually, and you get the X-wing and three mini sets to play with, too. Plus R2-D2, Leia and Luke minifigs that all make fun noises when they're near the brick.