The 2026 LEGO Set That Proves Play Value Still Beats Display Value (& It’s Not the Large Pokémon Diorama)

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LEGO is set to have a fantastic year thanks to its innovative Smart Brick technology. Launching fully in 2026, these new bricks feature lights and sounds, taking LEGO play to the next level. While some longtime fans have mixed feelings, Smart Bricks could mark a fresh start for LEGO, encouraging creativity and imaginative play. LEGO has always successfully balanced sets designed for active play with those meant for display, appealing to a wide range of ages. However, a recent set highlights that, ultimately, LEGO is at its best when it prioritizes fun and playfulness.

LEGO recently announced some of its first “Smart Play” sets, and they’re based on Star Wars! Given the long-standing partnership between LEGO and Star Wars, it’s fitting that this popular franchise is being used to showcase the new technology. Several Star Wars sets are compatible with Smart Play, but Luke Skywalker’s X-Wing is particularly impressive. Star Wars LEGO sets are known for appealing to both collectors who like to display them and those who enjoy creative play, and this X-Wing offers something for everyone.

LEGO Smart Play’s Luke Skywalker X-Wing Set Brings Fans the Best of Both Worlds

  • Release date: March 1, 2026
  • $89.99 USD
  • The set is officially called 75423 LEGO Star Wars Smart Play: Luke’s Red Five X-Wing.
  • The set contains 581 pieces.
  • It’s rated for ages 6+.

While not as large as the LEGO Millennium Falcon, this X-Wing set still looks great on display. As a Star Wars item, it’s instantly appealing to collectors. But its smaller size is what really makes it special. Unlike some bigger LEGO builds, you have a lot more options for where and how to show it off. You could put it on a shelf or nightstand, of course, but its size encourages more creative displays. Imagine hanging it from the ceiling with wire to make it look like it’s being flown, or building an entire scene around it – that’s even more impressive than just displaying a finished model!

The LEGO Smart Play X-Wing is a fantastic choice for kids of all levels of Star Wars enthusiasm, from beginners to dedicated fans. It’s incredibly versatile – it can be displayed as a model one minute, and become a fun, creative family activity the next. This LEGO set is designed for both children and adults to enjoy. It’s often difficult to appeal to serious collectors and younger builders simultaneously, but Star Wars makes it surprisingly easy to connect these two groups.

Image via LEGO

Luke’s X-Wing Isn’t the Only Cool Feature Found in This LEGO Set

While Luke Skywalker and the X-Wing are the stars of the show, the new LEGO sets launching in 2026 have a lot more to offer. The X-Wing set is particularly special, including beloved characters and benefiting from the Smart Play system for an enhanced building experience.

Extra Features Included in LEGO’s Smart Play X-Wing Set

  • LEGO Smart Brick
  • 2 LEGO Smart Figurines (Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia)
  • R2D2 and Rebel Alliance soldiers
  • 5 LEGO Smart Tags for accessories
  • 1 Smart Charger

Fans of Star Wars can not only pretend to be Luke Skywalker piloting the X-Wing, but they can also include Princess Leia in their adventures. This set is also one of the few Star Wars LEGO sets that features the LEGO Smart Brick. While it’s sparked some debate among LEGO enthusiasts, only a limited number of these ‘Smart Play’ sets actually come with the Smart Brick. For instance, the Smart Play Millennium Falcon doesn’t include it, making it a highly sought-after item for Star Wars collectors. Therefore, if you want the Smart Play features, you’ll need to purchase a separate set that includes the Smart Brick.

Currently, only three LEGO Star Wars Smart Play sets come with the Smart Brick: Luke’s Red Five X-Wing, Darth Vader’s TIE Fighter, and the Throne Room Duel & A-wing set.

What Does the Smart Brick Mean For the Future of LEGO?

While long-time LEGO enthusiasts might not need the new Smart Brick features, they could be a fantastic way for families to play and create together. Some might prefer the classic, imaginative sound effects of traditional LEGO building, and in a world full of screens, encouraging hands-on play is valuable. Ultimately, LEGO’s strength is its versatility – builders can enjoy it in any way they choose, with or without the added technology.

LEGO leader Federico Begher recently responded to fans worried that the new “Smart Brick” technology might move LEGO away from traditional building. He explained that it’s meant to add to the LEGO experience, not replace classic play. LEGO already has a lot planned for 2026, and these “Smart Play” sets will be a big part of it. It’s early in the year, but there’s already plenty to be excited about! We’ll be watching to see what other Smart Play sets LEGO announces. For now, the Star Wars Luke’s Red Five X-Wing Smart Play set is shaping up to be a highlight, demonstrating that LEGO still focuses on fun, creativity, and building.

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2026-01-29 19:06