The LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, now available for preorder, is a build that appeals to LEGO fans of all skill levels. Casual builders will enjoy the vibrant primary colors and the large, easy-to-handle pieces, making it a surefire hit. Meanwhile, seasoned LEGO enthusiasts will appreciate the detailed construction of the Kart and the thoughtful design choices, such as the absence of stickers. Instead, every visual detail is intricately printed directly onto the bricks, enhancing the overall quality and appeal of the set.
Set to be released on May 15### LEGO Mario Kart – Mario & Standard Kart
$169.99 at LEGO Store
The full name, LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, signifies its place within the broader LEGO Mario universe. This raises exciting possibilities for future releases. Could we see more Kart sets of similar scale and detail? While smaller playset-scaled Kart sets are already available (see at Amazon), there's undoubtedly a demand for larger sets featuring characters like 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 divided into 17 bags, offering two distinct builds. The first is the Standard Kart, where you start by constructing a LEGO Technic mesh, held together by pins and reinforced with bricks, to create the Kart's floorboard. Next, you attach the body shell components using rods and clamps, including the 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 seamless integration of form and function. It attaches to the front of the set via clamps and folds onto the hood like a hinged storm door. Turning the steering wheel results in a corresponding movement of the front wheels, adding a realistic touch to the build.
Despite its seemingly simple appearance, the Kart's construction is surprisingly intricate, composed of many small, detailed steps that culminate in a sophisticated and whimsical final product. This contrast between complexity and playful design is part of what makes the build so enjoyable.
Following the Kart, you build Mario, following a similar assembly process seen in The Mighty Bowser set from three years ago. You start with the torso, utilizing ball-and-socket connections, then add the legs, arms, and finally, the head and hat. The hat is the most intricate part, featuring two smaller builds that create its iconic, bent shape.
Building Mario offers a chance to appreciate his lesser-known details, such as the hair peeking from under his hat, the markings on his gloves, and the cuffs of his jeans. This experience is akin to assembling a jigsaw puzzle of a famous painting, where you notice subtle colors and brushstrokes that enhance your appreciation of the whole.
Unfortunately, Mario cannot be detached from the Kart; his torso is anchored directly to a gray plate attached to the Kart's seat. While this may be frustrating for some, it's understandable as a standalone, fully poseable Mario would be highly sought after. LEGO enthusiasts may find creative ways to modify the model to make Mario stand independently, perhaps as a fun DIY project for a rainy day.
The completed set is visually stunning. The Kart mounts on a buildable stand that can tilt up or down and rotate 360 degrees, offering flexibility in displaying the model. You can position Mario gripping the steering wheel with one hand while pumping the air with the other, almost hearing his iconic "Whoo-hoo!"
If LEGO continues in this direction, it's a promising sign for fans. Recent Mario-themed sets like The Mighty Bowser (2022) and The Piranha Plant (2003) have set a high standard, and the Mario & Standard Kart set upholds this by balancing build quality with visual appeal. More large-scale replicas of Mario iconography would be a welcome addition to the LEGO lineup.
LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, Set #72037, is priced at $169.99 and comprises 1972 pieces. It will launch exclusively at the LEGO Store on May 15. Preorder now.
