The LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, now available for preorder, is a set that appeals to builders of all levels. Casual enthusiasts will enjoy its vibrant primary colors and large, user-friendly pieces, ensuring a fun and engaging build experience. Seasoned LEGO aficionados will appreciate the detailed construction of the Kart and the absence of stickers; all visual elements are directly printed onto the bricks, enhancing the build's sophistication.
LEGO Mario Kart – Mario & Standard Kart
Priced at $169.99 at the LEGO Store, the official name – LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart – indicates that it falls under the broader LEGO Mario category. This opens up exciting possibilities for future releases. Could we see more Kart sets featuring characters like 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 larger, detailed models like this one.
Building the LEGO Mario Kart - Mario and Standard Kart
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The set is divided into 17 bags, featuring two separate builds. The Standard Kart is the first to be constructed, utilizing a LEGO Technic mesh secured by pins and reinforced with bricks to form the Kart's floorboard. The body shell, including rockets/exhaust pipes, side panels, and the steering mechanism, is then attached using rods and clamps.
The steering mechanism is a highlight, seamlessly blending form and function. It's fastened to the front of the set via clamps and can be 'folded' onto the hood like a storm door on a hinge. Turning the steering wheel also turns the front wheels, adding a realistic touch to the model.
Despite its seemingly simple appearance, the Kart's construction involves numerous small, detailed steps, culminating in a sophisticated yet whimsical final product. This balance of complexity and playfulness is a testament to the set's design.
Following the Kart, you build Mario, following a similar process to The Mighty Bowser set from three years ago. The construction starts with the torso, using ball-and-socket connections, followed by the legs, arms, and finally the head and hat. The hat is particularly intricate, requiring two smaller builds to achieve its iconic, bent shape.
Building Mario offers a chance to appreciate the finer details that contribute to his iconic look – from the hair peeking out from under his hat to 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 with LEGO reveals subtle elements that add to the overall character, even if they're not immediately noticeable.
A notable drawback is that Mario cannot be separated from the Kart. His torso directly anchors onto a gray plate that attaches to the Kart's seat, which is both a practical and a limiting design choice. While this may frustrate some, it's understandable from a commercial standpoint. However, enterprising LEGO fans might take on the challenge of modifying the model to stand independently, making it a potential DIY project for a rainy weekend.
The completed set is mounted on a buildable stand that can be tilted and rotated, allowing for various dynamic poses, from uphill climbs to downhill races and banked turns. Positioning Mario to grip the steering wheel with one hand while pumping the air with the other adds a playful touch, almost audible with his signature "Whoo-hoo!"
LEGO's direction with Mario-themed sets is promising. The Mighty Bowser and the Piranha Plant have been standout releases in recent years, and the Mario & Standard Kart continues this trend, striking a perfect balance between build quality and visual appeal. The more iconic Mario replicas we see, the better.
LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, Set #72037, retails for $169.99 and comprises 1972 pieces. It will be available exclusively at the LEGO Store starting May 15. Preorder now.
