LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart Built

The LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, now available for preorder, is a set that promises to captivate builders of all levels. Casual LEGO enthusiasts will delight in the vibrant primary colors and the large, easy-to-handle pieces, making it an instant hit. Meanwhile, seasoned builders will appreciate the detailed construction of the Kart and the absence of stickers; all visual elements are intricately printed directly onto the bricks.

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

Priced at $169.99 at the LEGO Store, the new set's full name, LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, indicates its place within the broader LEGO Mario series. This suggests the potential for more expansive Kart sets in the future. While smaller playset-scaled Kart sets are already available (see at Amazon), there's clearly a 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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The set is divided into 17 bags, comprising two separate builds. The first is the Standard Kart, where you assemble a LEGO Technic mesh supported by pins and reinforced with bricks to form the Kart's floorboard. Then, you attach the body shell components using rods and clamps, including rockets/exhaust pipes, side panels, and the steering mechanism, which also serves as the front exterior.

The steering mechanism is particularly noteworthy for how it seamlessly integrates form and function. It attaches to the front via clamps and folds onto the hood like a storm door on a hinge, enabling the front wheels to turn in sync with the steering wheel.

The Kart's construction, though seemingly simple, involves numerous intricate steps that culminate in a visually sophisticated model. This blend of detailed construction and playful design showcases the set's charm and craftsmanship.

Following the Kart, you build Mario using a method similar to that of The Mighty Bowser from three years ago. You start with the torso, adding ball-and-socket connections at the extremities, then attach the legs, arms, and finally, the head and hat. The hat's construction is the most complex, featuring two smaller builds to achieve its distinctive bent shape.

Building Mario allows you to appreciate the finer details, like the hair peeking out from under his hat, the markings on his gloves, and the rolled-up cuffs on his jeans. This experience is akin to assembling a jigsaw puzzle of a famous painting, where you notice subtle elements that enhance the overall picture.

Unfortunately, Mario cannot be separated from the Kart; his torso is anchored directly to the Kart seat without a separate body. While this may be frustrating, it's understandable given the potential for a standalone Mario figure to be a highly sought-after item.

Nevertheless, many LEGO enthusiasts are likely to find ways to modify the model for independent display. Such a DIY project could be a fun challenge for a rainy weekend.

The final product is stunning. The Kart comes with a buildable stand that can be tilted and rotated 360 degrees, allowing for various dynamic poses—from uphill climbs to banked turns. My Mario is posed gripping the steering wheel with his left hand and triumphantly pumping the air with his right, embodying the spirit of the game with a cheerful "Whoo-hoo!"

If LEGO continues in this direction, the future looks bright. The Mario & Standard Kart set, following the impressive releases like The Mighty Bowser in 2022 and The Piranha Plant in 2003, maintains the high standard of build quality and 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 be available exclusively at the LEGO Store starting May 15. Preorder now.