LEGO Mario Kart: Building Mario & Standard Kart

The LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, now available for preorder, is a build that appeals to LEGO enthusiasts of all levels. Casual builders will be drawn to its vibrant primary colors and the chunky, easy-to-assemble pieces, making it a delightful project for all ages. On the other hand, seasoned LEGO aficionados will appreciate the intricate design of the Kart's construction and the attention to detail, with every visual element printed directly onto the bricks, eliminating the need for stickers.

Out May 15### LEGO Mario Kart – Mario & Standard Kart

Priced at $169.99 at the LEGO Store, the set's official name – LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart – signifies its place within the broader LEGO Mario universe. This raises the exciting possibility of more Kart sets in the future. While smaller playset-scaled Kart sets are available (see at Amazon), the demand for larger models like a Luigi in a Sports Coupe or Princess Peach on a Cat Cruiser seems evident.

We Build LEGO Mario Kart - Mario and Standard Kart

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Comprising 17 bags, the set includes two distinct builds: the Standard Kart and Mario. The Kart's construction begins with a LEGO Technic mesh, secured with pins and reinforced by bricks, to create the floorboard. Subsequent steps involve attaching the body shell components, including rockets/exhaust pipes, side panels, and a steering mechanism that doubles as the Kart's front exterior.

The steering mechanism is particularly noteworthy for seamlessly blending form and function. It attaches to the front via clamps and folds onto the hood like a hinged storm door. When you turn the steering wheel, the front wheels respond accordingly, adding a realistic touch to the build.

Though the Kart's design may seem straightforward, the build process involves numerous small, detailed steps that culminate in a visually sophisticated model. This juxtaposition of complexity and playfulness makes the build both challenging and enjoyable.

After completing the Kart, you move on to constructing Mario, following a method similar to that used for The Mighty Bowser set from three years ago. The process starts with the torso, followed by the legs, arms, and finally the head and hat. The hat's construction is the most complex part, featuring two smaller builds that achieve its iconic bent shape.

Building Mario allows you 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. This experience is akin to piecing together a jigsaw puzzle of a famous painting, where you notice subtle colors and brushstrokes that enhance the overall image.

However, Mario cannot be separated from the Kart, as his torso is directly anchored onto a gray plate attached to the Kart's seat. While this may be disappointing for some, it's understandable from a design perspective. Although there's no official way to make Mario stand alone, the LEGO community might take on this challenge as a DIY project.

The completed model looks stunning, mounted on a buildable stand that allows for tilting and 360-degree rotation. This feature enables you to pose the Kart in various dynamic positions, such as going uphill, downhill, or sliding into a turn. My favorite pose has Mario gripping the steering wheel with one hand and pumping the air with the other, almost as if you can hear his signature "Whoo-hoo!"

If this set is indicative of LEGO's future direction, I'm excited to see more. Over the past three years, some of the most impressive LEGO sets have been Mario-themed, including The Mighty Bowser and The Piranha Plant. The Mario & Standard Kart set upholds this high standard by perfectly balancing build quality with visual appeal. The more large-scale replicas of Mario iconography we see, the better.

LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, Set #72037, is priced at $169.99 and consists of 1972 pieces. It will be available exclusively at the LEGO Store starting May 15. Preorder now.