LEGO Mario Kart: Building Mario's Standard Kart

The LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, now available for preorder, is a set that appeals to a broad audience of LEGO enthusiasts. Casual builders will be drawn to its vibrant primary colors and the large, easy-to-handle pieces, making it an instant hit. On the other hand, seasoned LEGO builders will appreciate the detailed construction of the Kart and the absence of stickers, with all visual details printed directly onto the bricks.

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

Priced at $169.99 at the LEGO Store, this new set, officially named LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, falls under the LEGO Mario umbrella. This categorization hints at the possibility of more expansive Kart sets in the future. While smaller, playset-scaled Kart sets are already available (see at Amazon), there's certainly a demand for larger models, such as a sizable Luigi in a Sports Coupe or a grand Princess Peach on a Cat Cruiser.

We Build LEGO Mario Kart - Mario and Standard Kart

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The set comes divided across 17 bags and involves two distinct builds. The first is the Standard Kart, where you start by assembling a LEGO Technic mesh, secured with pins and reinforced with bricks, to form the Kart's floorboard. Next, you attach the body shell components using rods and clamps, including the rockets/exhaust pipes, side panels, and the steering mechanism, which also shapes the Kart's front exterior.

The steering mechanism is particularly noteworthy as it seamlessly blends aesthetics with functionality. It attaches to the front of the set via clamps and folds onto the hood like a hinged storm door. This design allows the front wheels to turn when you manipulate the steering wheel, adding to the realism of the build.

The construction process of the Kart is more intricate and detailed than it appears at first glance. Despite its playful and whimsical appearance, the build process involves many small steps that cumulatively create a sophisticated end product, showcasing the craftsmanship involved.

After completing the Kart, you move on to building Mario, which follows a similar construction pattern to the Mighty Bowser set released three years ago. You start with the torso, utilizing ball-and-socket joints at the extremities, followed by the legs, arms, and finally the head and hat. The hat is the most complex part, requiring the attachment of two smaller builds to achieve its iconic, bent look.

Building Mario out of LEGO bricks allowed me to appreciate the finer details that contribute to his iconic look, 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 notice subtle colors and brushstrokes you might otherwise miss. This experience was especially enjoyable with my 10-year-old son, as we both reveled in uncovering these small details.

Unfortunately, Mario cannot be detached from the Kart as his torso is fixed directly onto a gray plate that attaches to the Kart's seat. While this might be disappointing, it's understandable from a commercial standpoint, as a standalone, fully poseable Mario figure would likely be in high demand. Creative LEGO fans may find ways to modify the set to allow for a standalone Mario, making it a potential DIY project for a rainy day.

The final assembly is visually striking. The Kart is mounted on a buildable stand that can be tilted and rotated 360 degrees, providing various display options. You can position Mario gripping the steering wheel with one hand while triumphantly pumping the air with the other, almost hearing his iconic "Whoo-hoo!"

If LEGO continues down this path, I am fully on board. The Mario-themed sets, including the Mighty Bowser from 2022 and the Piranha Plant from 2003, have set a high bar for quality and visual appeal. The LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, set number 72037, maintains this standard with its 1972 pieces and will be available exclusively at the LEGO Store starting May 15. Preorder now to secure your set.