The LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, now available for preorder, is a build that appeals to a wide range of LEGO enthusiasts. Casual builders will be drawn to its vibrant primary colors and the large, chunky pieces that make it an instant favorite. Meanwhile, seasoned LEGO builders will appreciate the detailed construction of the Kart and the absence of stickers; all visual elements are beautifully printed directly onto the bricks, adding to the set's overall appeal.
LEGO Mario Kart – Mario & Standard Kart
Priced at $169.99 at the LEGO Store, the official name – LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart – suggests that this set is part of a larger LEGO Mario series. This opens up exciting possibilities for future releases, such as a large Luigi in a Sports Coupe or Princess Peach on a Cat Cruiser. While smaller playset-scaled Kart sets are already available (see at Amazon), there's clearly a demand for more expansive models like this one.
We Build LEGO Mario Kart - Mario and Standard Kart
View 135 Images
The set is divided into 17 bags, comprising two separate builds. The first is the Standard Kart, which involves constructing a LEGO Technic mesh, secured with pins and reinforced by bricks, to form the Kart's floorboard. The body shell is then meticulously assembled using rods and clamps, including its rockets/exhaust pipes, side panels, and a unique steering mechanism that also serves as the Kart's front exterior.
The steering mechanism is particularly noteworthy for its blend of form and function. It attaches to the front of the set with clamps and folds onto the hood like a storm door on a hinge. When you turn the steering wheel, the front wheels follow suit, adding a realistic touch to the build.
The construction of the Kart is more intricate than it appears, requiring numerous small steps to achieve the final, impressive result. This juxtaposition of simplicity and sophistication enhances the build's charm, making it both playful and detailed.
Following the Kart, you build Mario, whose assembly mirrors that of The Mighty Bowser set from three years ago. You start with the torso, using ball-and-socket connections, then add the legs, arms, and finally, the head and hat. The hat is the most complex part, consisting of two smaller builds that create its iconic, bent shape.
Building Mario provides an opportunity to appreciate the finer details, such as the hair peeking out from under his hat, the markings on his gloves, and the rolled-up cuffs of his jeans. It's akin to piecing together a jigsaw puzzle of a famous painting, where you notice nuances you might otherwise miss. This experience is both educational and enjoyable, especially when shared with younger builders like my 10-year-old son.
Unfortunately, Mario cannot be detached from the Kart; his torso is anchored directly onto a gray plate that connects to the Kart's seat. While this may be disappointing, it's understandable from a commercial standpoint. However, the LEGO community is likely to devise ways to modify the model for independent display. This could be an engaging DIY project for a rainy day.
The finished product is stunning. The Kart is mounted on a versatile stand that can be tilted up or down and rotated 360 degrees, allowing for dynamic posing. Whether going uphill, downhill, or into a banked turn, you can set up Mario in various action-packed scenes, like gripping the steering wheel with one hand and pumping the air with the other, complete with an imaginary "Whoo-hoo!"
If LEGO continues in this direction, the future looks bright. The past three years have seen remarkable Mario-themed sets, including The Mighty Bowser in 2022 and The Piranha Plant in 2003. The LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart upholds this tradition, skillfully balancing build quality with visual appeal. More large-scale replicas of Mario's iconic world would be a welcome addition to any LEGO collection.
LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, Set #72037, is priced at $169.99 and comprises 1972 pieces. It will be available exclusively at the LEGO Store starting May 15. Preorder now.
