The LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, now available for preorder, is a set that promises to delight fans of all ages. Casual builders will be drawn to its vibrant primary colors and the satisfyingly chunky pieces, making it a hit at any gathering. On the other hand, seasoned LEGO enthusiasts will appreciate the detailed construction of the Kart and the absence of stickers, with every decorative element expertly printed onto the bricks.
LEGO Mario Kart – Mario & Standard Kart
Priced at $169.99 at the LEGO Store, the LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart set introduces a new subgenre within the expansive LEGO Mario universe. This opens up exciting possibilities for future releases, such as larger sets featuring 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 a clear demand for more elaborate models like this one.
We Build LEGO Mario Kart - Mario and Standard Kart
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The set comes divided into 17 bags, offering two distinct builds. The first is the Standard Kart, which starts with a LEGO Technic mesh base, secured by pins and reinforced with bricks. The body shell is meticulously assembled using rods and clamps, attaching rockets/exhaust pipes, side panels, and a steering mechanism that also forms the front exterior of the Kart.
The steering mechanism is particularly noteworthy for its seamless integration of form and function. It's attached to the front via clamps and can be folded onto the hood like a storm door on a hinge. Turning the steering wheel results in synchronized movement of the front wheels, adding a dynamic touch to the build.
Despite its seemingly simple appearance, the Kart's construction is intricate, requiring numerous small steps that culminate in a visually impressive result. This juxtaposition of complexity and playfulness makes the build both challenging and enjoyable.
Following the Kart, you build Mario, whose assembly mirrors that of The Mighty Bowser from three years ago. The process begins with the torso, followed by legs, arms, and finally, the head and hat. The hat, with its signature bent appearance, is the most complex part, requiring the attachment of two smaller builds to the top of Mario's head.
Building Mario offers a chance to appreciate his 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 is akin to piecing together a jigsaw puzzle of a famous painting, where you discover nuances that enhance your overall appreciation of the artwork.
A notable drawback is that Mario cannot be detached from the Kart. His torso is anchored directly to a gray plate that attaches to the Kart's seat. While this design choice may frustrate some, it's understandable given the potential market for a standalone, fully articulable Mario figure. Enthusiasts might see this as an opportunity for a creative DIY project.
The completed set is visually stunning, with the Kart mounted on a buildable stand that can be tilted and rotated, allowing for various display options. Whether you pose Mario gripping the steering wheel or celebrating a victory, the set captures the spirit of the Mario Kart experience.
The direction LEGO is taking with Mario-themed sets is promising. Following the success of The Mighty Bowser in 2022 and The Piranha Plant in 2003, the Mario & Standard Kart set upholds the high standard of build quality and visual appeal. We can only hope for more iconic Mario replicas in the future.
LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, Set #72037, comprises 1972 pieces and is priced at $169.99. It will be available exclusively at the LEGO Store starting May 15. Preorder now to secure your set.
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