LEGO Mario Kart: Building Mario & Standard Kart

The LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, now available for preorder, is a set that appeals to LEGO enthusiasts of all levels. Casual builders will be drawn to its vibrant primary colors and the chunky, user-friendly pieces that ensure an enjoyable building experience. On the other hand, seasoned LEGO aficionados will appreciate the sophisticated construction of the Kart, particularly the absence of stickers. All visual elements are printed directly onto the bricks, adding to the overall quality and appeal of the set.

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 new subgenre within the LEGO Mario universe. This development suggests that fans might soon see more large-scale Kart sets. While smaller, playset-sized Kart sets are already available (see at Amazon), the demand for expansive builds like a large Luigi in a Sports Coupe or a Princess Peach on a Cat Cruiser is evident.

We Build LEGO Mario Kart - Mario and Standard Kart

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The LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart set is divided into 17 bags, comprising two main builds. The first is the Standard Kart, which you assemble starting with a LEGO Technic mesh secured by pins and reinforced by bricks to form the Kart's floorboard. You then attach the body shell parts using rods and clamps, including rockets/exhaust pipes, side panels, and a steering mechanism that also shapes the Kart's front.

The steering mechanism stands out for seamlessly integrating form and function. It connects 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, enhancing the interactive play experience.

Despite its playful appearance, the construction of the Kart involves intricate, detailed steps that culminate in a sophisticated final product. This balance of simplicity and complexity makes the build process both engaging and rewarding.

Following the Kart, you build Mario, following a construction pattern similar to that of The Mighty Bowser from three years ago. You start with the torso, followed by the legs, arms, and finally, the head and hat. The hat, with its bent appearance, is the most complex part of Mario's build, requiring two separate smaller builds to achieve its iconic look.

Building Mario allowed for a deeper appreciation of 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 experience mirrors the joy of piecing together a jigsaw puzzle of a famous painting, where you discover subtle nuances that contribute to the whole.

Unfortunately, Mario cannot be detached from the Kart, as his torso anchors directly onto the Kart's seat. While this may be frustrating, it's a strategic choice by LEGO and Nintendo to preserve the set's unique design. However, enterprising LEGO fans may 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. Whether you're showcasing Mario navigating uphill, downhill, or executing a banked turn, the flexibility of the stand enhances the display possibilities.

If this is the direction LEGO is heading, the future looks bright. Over the past three years, two of the most impressive LEGO sets have been Mario-themed, including The Mighty Bowser in 2022 and The Piranha Plant in 2003. The LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, set #72037, with its 1972 pieces, upholds this high standard by offering a perfect balance of build quality and visual appeal. Set to launch exclusively at the LEGO Store on May 15, this set is available for preorder now.