The LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart set, now available for preorder, is a build that appeals to a wide range of fans. Casual builders will find joy in its vibrant primary colors and large, easy-to-handle pieces, making it a surefire crowd-pleaser. Meanwhile, experienced LEGO enthusiasts will appreciate the intricate construction of the Kart and the thoughtful design that eschews stickers in favor of directly printed visual elements on the bricks.
LEGO Mario Kart – Mario & Standard Kart
Priced at $169.99, available at the LEGO Store, the set named LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart signals the emergence of a new subgenre within the broader LEGO Mario universe. This development sparks hope for more expansive Kart sets. While there are already playset-scaled Kart options available (see at Amazon), there's certainly a demand for larger models like a Luigi in a Sports Coupe or Princess Peach on a Cat Cruiser.
We Build LEGO Mario Kart - Mario and Standard Kart
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The set is thoughtfully divided into 17 bags, offering two distinct builds. The first is the Standard Kart, where you start by constructing a LEGO Technic mesh, secured with pins and reinforced with bricks, to form the Kart's floorboard. You then meticulously attach the body shell components using rods and clamps, including rockets/exhaust pipes, side panels, and a steering mechanism that also shapes the Kart's front exterior.
The steering mechanism is a highlight, seamlessly blending form and function. It's attached to the front of the set with clamps and 'folds' onto the hood like a storm door on a hinge. As you turn the steering wheel, the front wheels move in tandem, showcasing LEGO's attention to detail.
Contrary to its seemingly simple appearance, the Kart's build process is intricate, involving many small, precise steps that culminate in a sophisticated final product. Despite its playful and whimsical nature, the build exudes a sense of craftsmanship and care.
Following the Kart, you construct Mario, following a process similar to The Mighty Bowser set from three years ago. You start with the torso, utilizing ball-and-socket connections, then attach legs, arms, and finally the head and hat. The hat, in particular, is an intricate build, with two smaller pieces attached to create its signature bent shape.
Building Mario reveals his smaller, often overlooked details—the hair peeking from under his hat, the markings on his gloves, and the rolled cuffs of his jeans. This experience is akin to piecing together a jigsaw puzzle of a famous painting, where you discover nuances you might otherwise miss. It's a rewarding journey for builders of all ages.
However, Mario cannot be detached from the Kart; his torso is fixed to a gray plate that connects to the Kart's seat. While this may be disappointing, it's a strategic move by LEGO and Nintendo to preserve the set's value and exclusivity. Creative LEGO fans might find ways to modify the model for standalone display, making it a potential DIY project.
The completed set looks stunning. The Kart sits on an adjustable stand, allowing for tilting and 360-degree rotation, enabling dynamic poses—whether going uphill, downhill, or into a banked turn. Positioning Mario to grip the steering wheel and celebrate adds to the interactive fun, almost eliciting his iconic "Whoo-hoo!"
If LEGO continues down this path, it's a promising direction. The Mario & Standard Kart set joins the ranks of top LEGO creations like The Mighty Bowser and The Piranha Plant, balancing high build quality with striking visual appeal. More large-scale replicas of Mario's iconic world would be a welcome addition.
LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, Set #72037, comprises 1972 pieces and retails for $169.99. It will be available exclusively at the LEGO Store starting May 15. Preorder now.
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