Here we have the new LEGO Pokémon Trainer's Buggy Adventure with Squirtle, set number 72156. This 320-piece build introduces the SMART Play system, bringing a new dimension to character interaction. The completed set measures over 4.5 inches (11.4 cm) high, 3.5 inches (8.9 cm) wide, and 7.5 inches (19.1 cm) deep, offering a compact yet feature-rich experience. The blue and white color scheme sets a vibrant tone.
Flipping the box over, we get a better sense of the SMART Play compatibility. The dynamic vignettes show Squirtle ready for action, whether piloting the buggy or enjoying a snack. The inclusion of two Smart Tags points to varied interactive responses, promising rich narrative play scenarios. It's a clever way to integrate digital elements into a physical build.
This brick-built Squirtle is a masterclass in capturing organic shapes with standard elements. The layered plates and curved bricks form its familiar shell and body. Printed elements for the eyes and mouth add personality, a crucial detail. Its arms and legs use simple pivot points, giving it just enough articulation for expressive poses.
No Pokémon adventure is complete without a Poké Ball, and this brick-built version doesn't disappoint. It uses curved elements to form its iconic shape, with contrasting red and white sections. The central black ring and button are neatly integrated. It's a simple, yet effective sub-assembly for imaginative play.
These two Smart Tags are the gateway to the interactive elements of this set. One tag clearly identifies the Trainer's Buggy, while the other is dedicated to Squirtle, complete with its #0007 identifier and water type symbol. These printed elements are essential for triggering unique responses within the SMART Play system, linking physical bricks to digital cues.
The Trainer's Buggy comes alive with its projectile-firing mechanism, using trans-light blue elements to simulate water blasts. Squirtle watches on, ready to engage in the action. The small remote control is a thoughtful detail, setting the scene for a trainer directing the buggy. Meanwhile, the detailed burger stack on its stand adds a playful narrative element for breaks in the adventure.
This accessory build showcases a clever NPU for the burger, using stacked plates of varying colors to create its multi-layered look. Squirtle can comfortably interact with the stand, thanks to its simple articulation. The flame elements at the base add a whimsical touch, hinting at an outdoor cooking scenario or a heated battleground. It's a small detail that expands storytelling possibilities.
From this vantage, the Trainer's Buggy reveals its structural design, utilizing large wheels for stability. The side panels employ SNOT techniques to achieve a clean aesthetic, while scattered tiles and plates create subtle greebling, suggesting mechanical complexity. The dual 'water' cannons at the rear are integrated smoothly, ready for projectile launching. It's a solid, playable vehicle.
The mechanism for integrating the Smart Brick (sold separately) into Squirtle is straightforward and ingenious. A dedicated slot on the figure's back allows for a secure fit, ensuring the Smart Brick is hidden once installed. This design choice maintains Squirtle's aesthetic while enabling its interactive potential. It's a clever way to blend electronics with traditional building.
Witnessing the wireless interaction between Squirtle and the Trainer's Buggy truly demonstrates the SMART Play experience. The animated visual cues indicate Squirtle's proximity or direct engagement with the buggy's Smart Tags. This allows for dynamic play, where character placement can trigger actions from the vehicle, adding an exciting layer of responsiveness to the build.
The assembly process is a core part of the experience, as depicted by a young builder focused on the Trainer's Buggy. The array of parts laid out shows the detailed sub-assemblies and individual elements, from jumper plates to greebling pieces. This hands-on engagement is where the builder connects with the design, appreciating the geometry and clutch power of each brick.
The moment Squirtle is placed onto the Trainer's Buggy showcases the direct activation of its interactive features. The alignment of Squirtle's Smart Brick with the buggy's Smart Tag triggers a response, as indicated by the visual effects. This direct physical interaction leading to a digital outcome is the essence of the SMART Play system, enhancing play scenarios.
With all elements built, the Trainer's Buggy Adventure with Squirtle creates a cohesive and engaging scene. The buggy, Squirtle, Poké Ball, and burger stand come together, forming a narrative diorama. It’s a build that offers both interactive play and a vibrant display piece, truly capturing the essence of a Pokémon journey in brick form.
5-Year Est. (Sealed) after EOL
$57 — $65
Est. ROI
+104.7%
Carries a 17% premium over standard LEGO sets.
Height equivalent to approx 2.9 minifigures stacked.
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