LEGO Mario Kart: Building Mario & Standard Kart

The eagerly awaited LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart set is now available for preorder, and it's poised to captivate builders of all skill levels. Casual enthusiasts will be drawn to its vibrant primary colors and the set's large, easy-to-handle pieces, making it a delightful build for everyone. On the other hand, seasoned LEGO aficionados will appreciate the intricate construction of the Kart and the thoughtful design choice to use printed pieces instead of stickers, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal.

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

Priced at $169.99 at the LEGO Store, the LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart set marks a significant addition to the LEGO Mario universe. This set hints at the potential for more expansive Kart collections. While smaller playset-scaled Kart sets are available (see at Amazon), the demand for larger models featuring characters like Luigi in a Sports Coupe or Princess Peach on a Cat Cruiser is undeniable.

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'll start by assembling a LEGO Technic mesh, secured with pins and reinforced with bricks, to create the Kart's floorboard. The body shell follows, with components like rockets/exhaust pipes, side panels, and a steering mechanism that doubles as the Kart's front exterior, all connected via rods and clamps.

The steering mechanism is particularly noteworthy, seamlessly blending form and function. It attaches to the front of the set with clamps and folds onto the hood like a hinged storm door. When you turn the steering wheel, the front wheels respond in kind, adding a realistic touch to the model.

Despite its seemingly simple appearance, the Kart's construction involves numerous small, meticulous steps that culminate in a sophisticated final product. This juxtaposition of complexity and playful design is what makes the build so engaging.

Following the Kart, you'll build Mario, using a construction method similar to that of The Mighty Bowser from three years ago. You begin with the torso, utilizing ball-and-socket connections, then attach the legs, arms, and finally the head and hat. The hat, with its bent shape, is the most intricate part of Mario's build, requiring the attachment of two smaller builds to achieve its iconic look.

Building Mario offers a chance to appreciate the finer details that contribute to his character, such as the hair peeking out from under his hat, the markings on his gloves, and the rolled-up cuffs of his jeans. It's akin to piecing together a jigsaw puzzle of a famous painting, where you discover nuances that might otherwise go unnoticed.

A notable drawback is that Mario cannot be detached from the Kart; his torso is directly anchored to a gray plate that connects to the Kart's seat. While this might be frustrating for some, it's a strategic move by LEGO and Nintendo to preserve the set's exclusivity. However, enterprising LEGO fans might find ways to modify the model for independent display.

The completed set is visually stunning, mounted on a buildable stand that can be tilted and rotated, allowing for dynamic posing of the Kart. Whether it's navigating uphill, downhill, or taking a banked turn, the possibilities are endless. I've posed my Mario gripping the steering wheel with one hand and triumphantly pumping the air with the other, embodying the spirit of the game.

If this set is indicative of LEGO's future direction, it's a promising sign. The Mario & Standard Kart set joins the ranks of other impressive Mario-themed sets like The Mighty Bowser and The Piranha Plant, maintaining a high standard of build quality and visual appeal. The more iconic Mario replicas we see, the better.

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 to secure your set.