Prevailing wisdom states that the sequel is never as good as the original, but Star Wars is famous for bucking the trend. Everyone knows that The Empire Strikes Back is better than A New Hope, and we have a good feeling about this year’s Force Friday II.
We’ve already played with the best and coolest stuff that’ll be available in stores and online starting Friday, September 1, and we’re delighted to spill the beans. From droids to AR experiences and even kits that’ll teach your kids about electronics, expect an avalanche of more cool stuff than you can shake a porg at.
Lenovo Star Wars: Jedi Challenges
Disney and Lenovo are sending the AR toy category into lightspeed with the new Star Wars: Jedi Challenges. Powered by a smartphone that slots into the AR visor, this set lets you battle foes like Kylo Ren using the included (and very authentic) lightsaber hilt. We had a chance to try the experience and had a blast facing off against digital enemies. You also can immerse yourself in a holochess game (that’s dejarik to die-hard fans) and a strategy game based on the saga’s famous battles. | $199
Credit:
lenovo
Disney and Lenovo are sending the AR toy category into lightspeed with the new Star Wars: Jedi Challenges. Powered by a smartphone that slots into the AR visor, this set lets you battle foes like Kylo Ren using the included (and very authentic) lightsaber hilt. We had a chance to try the experience and had a blast facing off against digital enemies. You also can immerse yourself in a holochess game (that’s dejarik to die-hard fans) and a strategy game based on the saga’s famous battles. | $199
Sphero R2-D2 App-Enabled Droid
Sphero’s spent the last two years perfecting its mini-droid technology, and this Force Friday brings R2-D2 to life. Its best trick is undoubtedly the ability to transition from three legs to two on the fly, running over carpet and hardwood without a hitch. Trust us—it’s hard not to crack a huge smile when you see this droid cut loose. Using the Sphero remote control app, you can call up animations that let Artoo express itself in uncannily authentic fashion. | $179
Credit:
Sphero
Sphero’s spent the last two years perfecting its mini-droid technology, and this Force Friday brings R2-D2 to life. Its best trick is undoubtedly the ability to transition from three legs to two on the fly, running over carpet and hardwood without a hitch. Trust us—it’s hard not to crack a huge smile when you see this droid cut loose. Using the Sphero remote control app, you can call up animations that let Artoo express itself in uncannily authentic fashion. | $179
LittleBits Droid Inventor Kit
Robots play a big role in the Star Wars saga and now they’re here to help teach kids in our galaxy how to build and code. littleBits is introducing a new Star Wars-themed kit that is educational and remixable. Featuring the company’s modular system of lights, processors, motors, speakers, sensors, and other components, your favorite Jawa can build R2-D2 or a unique droid of your own design. The littleBits app lets you control your robotic pal and learn to program with easy-to-follow missions. | $99
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Littlebits
Robots play a big role in the Star Wars saga and now they’re here to help teach kids in our galaxy how to build and code. littleBits is introducing a new Star Wars-themed kit that is educational and remixable. Featuring the company’s modular system of lights, processors, motors, speakers, sensors, and other components, your favorite Jawa can build R2-D2 or a unique droid of your own design. The littleBits app lets you control your robotic pal and learn to program with easy-to-follow missions. | $99
Hasbro ForceLink Figures and Vehicles
When you think of Star Wars toys, there’s a good chance that Hasbro’s ubiquitous 3 3/4-inch figurines pop into your head. The latest toys launching for The Last Jedi feature new technology Hasbro’s calling ForceLink. Tap the wrist-worn ForceLink accessory to compatible toys and you’ll hear dialogue, sounds, and other interactive effects. The ForceLink wristband includes a Kylo Ren figure, and costs $25, while pricing on individual figures remains affordable. | $8 and up
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Hasbro
When you think of Star Wars toys, there’s a good chance that Hasbro’s ubiquitous 3 3/4-inch figurines pop into your head. The latest toys launching for The Last Jedi feature new technology Hasbro’s calling ForceLink. Tap the wrist-worn ForceLink accessory to compatible toys and you’ll hear dialogue, sounds, and other interactive effects. The ForceLink wristband includes a Kylo Ren figure, and costs $25, while pricing on individual figures remains affordable. | $8 and up
Lego Star Wars Sets and Buildable Figures
Of course, Lego has new kits based on The Last Jedi coming in time for Force Friday. Whether you love big ships, small playsets, or are a fan of Lego’s buildable figures, there are bricks waiting for you to purchase and assemble. Sets include the burly AT-M6 walker, Kylo Ren’s TIE Silencer, and figures of Rey, Chewie, a Praetorian Guard, and a First Order TIE Pilot. | $20 and up
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Lego
Of course, Lego has new kits based on The Last Jedi coming in time for Force Friday. Whether you love big ships, small playsets, or are a fan of Lego’s buildable figures, there are bricks waiting for you to purchase and assemble. Sets include the burly AT-M6 walker, Kylo Ren’s TIE Silencer, and figures of Rey, Chewie, a Praetorian Guard, and a First Order TIE Pilot. | $20 and up
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