The LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, now available for preorder, is a captivating build that appeals to LEGO enthusiasts of all skill levels. For casual builders, the set's vibrant primary colors and large, easy-to-handle pieces make it an instant hit. On the other hand, seasoned LEGO aficionados will appreciate the intricate details of the Kart's construction, along with the fact that all visual elements are printed directly onto the bricks, eliminating the need for stickers.
Out May 15### LEGO Mario Kart – Mario & Standard Kart
8$169.99 at LEGO StoreThe new set, officially named LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, marks a new subgenre within the larger LEGO Mario universe. This exciting development raises the question: can we anticipate more expansive Kart sets featuring other characters? While smaller, playset-scaled Kart sets are already available (see at Amazon), there's a clear demand for larger models like a Luigi in a Sports Coupe or a Princess Peach on a Cat Cruiser.
We Build LEGO Mario Kart - Mario and Standard Kart
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Divided into 17 bags, the LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart consists of two separate builds. The first build is the Standard Kart, where you start by constructing a LEGO Technic mesh, secured by pins and reinforced with bricks, to form the Kart's floorboard. You then attach various parts of the body shell using rods and clamps, including the rockets/exhaust pipes, side panels, and the steering mechanism, which also shapes the Kart's front exterior.
Special attention must be paid to the steering mechanism, which seamlessly blends form and function. One end is fastened to the front of the set via clamps, and it folds onto the hood like a storm door on a hinge. When you turn the steering wheel, the front wheels turn in response, enhancing the realism of the build.
Despite its seemingly simple appearance, the Kart's construction involves many small, detailed steps that contribute to its overall sophisticated look. This juxtaposition of complexity and playful design makes the build process both challenging and rewarding.
After completing the Kart, you move on to building Mario, following a similar assembly process to the Mighty Bowser set from three years ago. You begin with the torso, using ball-and-socket connections at its extremities, followed by the legs, arms, and finally, the head and hat. The hat is particularly complex, requiring two separate smaller builds to achieve its signature bent shape.
Building Mario provides an opportunity to appreciate the finer details that contribute to his iconic appearance, such as the hair peeking out from under his hat, the markings on his gloves, and the rolled-up cuffs of his jeans. Much like piecing together a jigsaw puzzle of a famous painting, constructing Mario from LEGO allows you to notice and appreciate elements that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Unfortunately, Mario cannot be separated from the Kart; his torso anchors directly onto a gray plate attached to the Kart seat. While this design choice may be frustrating, it's understandable from a business perspective. A standalone, fully articulable Mario would be a highly sought-after item, and LEGO and Nintendo are likely reserving such a model for future releases. Nonetheless, enterprising LEGO fans may find ways to modify the set for independent display.
Once completed, the final product is visually stunning. The Kart mounts on a buildable stand that can tilt and rotate, allowing for various dynamic poses—whether going uphill, downhill, or sliding into a banked turn. My Mario grips the steering wheel with one hand and pumps the air with the other, almost as if you can hear his enthusiastic "Whoo-hoo!"
If this is the direction LEGO is heading, it's incredibly promising. Over the past three years, some of the most impressive LEGO sets have been Mario-themed, including the Mighty Bowser in 2022 and the Piranha Plant in 2003. The LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart continues this trend, striking a perfect balance between build quality and visual appeal. The more expansive replicas of Mario iconography we get, the better.
LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, Set #72037, retails for $169.99 and comprises 1972 pieces. It will launch exclusively at the LEGO Store on May 15. Preorder now.
