The LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, now available for preorder, is a set that appeals to builders of all skill levels. Casual enthusiasts will enjoy the vibrant primary colors and the large, user-friendly pieces, making it an instant hit. For seasoned LEGO builders, the intricate construction of the Kart and the absence of stickers, with all visual details printed directly onto the bricks, provide a rewarding challenge.

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

Priced at $169.99 at the LEGO Store, this set's official name – LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart – hints at a subgenre within the broader LEGO Mario universe. This raises exciting possibilities for future releases. Could we see more expansive sets like a large Luigi in a Sports Coupe or Princess Peach on a Cat Cruiser? While smaller playset-scaled Kart sets are already available (see at Amazon), the demand for larger, more detailed models is undeniable.

We Build LEGO Mario Kart - Mario and Standard Kart

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Divided into 17 bags, the set offers two distinct builds. The first is the Standard Kart, which you assemble using a LEGO Technic mesh reinforced with bricks to form the Kart's floorboard. The body shell, including rockets/exhaust pipes, side panels, and the steering mechanism, attaches via rods and clamps, creating the Kart's front exterior.

The steering mechanism is particularly noteworthy for its seamless integration of form and function. It connects to the front via clamps and folds onto the hood like a storm door. Turning the steering wheel makes the front wheels pivot accordingly, enhancing the realism of the build.

The construction process of the Kart is surprisingly intricate, involving numerous small steps that culminate in a sophisticated yet playful final product. This juxtaposition of complexity and whimsy is what makes the build so engaging.

Following the Kart, you build Mario, following a similar process to The Mighty Bowser set from three years ago. Starting with the torso and using ball-and-socket connections, you then attach the legs, arms, and finally, the head and hat. The hat, with its bent appearance, is the most complex part, requiring two smaller builds to be attached to the top of Mario's head.

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

Unfortunately, Mario cannot be separated from the Kart. His torso directly anchors onto a gray plate attached to the Kart's seat. While this might be frustrating, it's understandable from a design standpoint. LEGO enthusiasts might find ways to modify the model for standalone display, perhaps as a fun DIY project for a rainy day.

The final display is stunning, with the Kart mounted on a buildable stand that can tilt and rotate 360 degrees. This flexibility allows for dynamic posing, whether going uphill, downhill, or navigating a banked turn. My favorite pose has Mario gripping the steering wheel with one hand and pumping the air with the other, almost as if you can hear his iconic "Whoo-hoo!"

LEGO's direction with the Mario-themed sets is incredibly promising. Following the success of The Mighty Bowser and The Piranha Plant, the Mario & Standard Kart set upholds the same high standards of build quality and visual appeal. The more large-scale replicas of Mario iconography we see, the better.

LEGO Mario Kart: Mario & Standard Kart, Set #72037, contains 1972 pieces and retails for $169.99. It will be available exclusively at the LEGO Store starting May 15. Preorder now.