Lego Super Mario Sets: The Ultimate Guide for Fans and Collectors
LEGO has long been synonymous with creative play and innovative building experiences for both children and adults. Among the myriad of themes and collections that LEGO offers, the LEGO Super Mario sets stand out as an exciting amalgamation of traditional brick-building and interactive play. These sets bring Nintendo's beloved video game icon to life in a physical form, allowing players to recreate the adventures of Mario in an entirely new, tangible way.
At the core of the LEGO Super Mario experience is the interactive Mario figure which responds with instant feedback through sounds and LCD screens in his eyes, mouth, and belly to different bricks and characters. The building sets themselves are dynamic, offering modular courses that can be rearranged and expanded in countless ways to create customized levels. This integration of digital and physical play is a bridge connecting generations of Mario fans.
When considering the purchase of LEGO Super Mario sets, the key factors to focus on include compatibility with other sets in the series, the age range and skill level of the intended builder, and the specific interests of the user, whether they're fans of particular Super Mario games or enjoy certain types of building challenges. Compatibility is particularly crucial, as some sets are expansions and require the starter course to function fully.
Our dedication to finding the best LEGO Super Mario sets includes hours of building, playing, and observing the interaction between different sets. We seek to understand what makes each set stand out in terms of playability, collectibility, and the overall building experience to ensure fans can make the most of their journey through the Mushroom Kingdom.
Top Picks for Lego Super Mario Sets
We've curated a selection of the finest Lego Super Mario sets, combining interactive play with the iconic charm of the Mario universe. These sets will not only offer hours of constructive fun but also bring the beloved video game to life in a unique, tangible way. Whether you're shopping for a seasoned Lego enthusiast or a Mario fan, our list is designed to help you choose the perfect set for an immersive building and gaming experience.
LEGO Super Mario Starter Course
We think this LEGO set stands out as a must-have for any Super Mario fan, offering a unique interactive experience that blends traditional LEGO fun with high-tech play.
Pros
- Provides engaging Mario-related sounds and music
- Encourages creativity with customizable course layouts
- Compatible with a companion app for extended play
Cons
- Requires a smart device for full experience
- Batteries not included which are necessary for interactive play
- May be costly considering the number of pieces
Unboxing the LEGO Super Mario Starter Course, we were immediately drawn to the interactive Mario figure. It's clear that a considerable amount of creative effort went into designing this playful character with his responsive LCD screens and speakers, which dish out familiar sounds straight from the video game.
As we dove into building our first course, it became apparent that the fun doesn't end with construction. Rearranging the bricks to design new levels offered us an almost game-like experience, bringing a lively twist to LEGO play. It was impressive to see how Mario reacts to the various action bricks with instant audio-visual cues.
Using the app added a fresh dimension to our LEGO building. It proved to be a handy tool, giving us zoom and rotate views for easy assembly along with inspiring new ideas. Sharing our creations within a safe community was just the cherry on top of this interactive adventure.
Yoshi's Gift House Set
We found the LEGO Super Mario Yoshi's Gift House Expansion Set to be a delightful addition that brings a touch of Yoshi's charm to any Super Mario setup.
Pros
- Interactive characters add depth to playtime.
- The Treat Merry-Go-Round is a fun and engaging feature.
- Encourages creativity in young builders during assembly and play.
Cons
- Does not include the interactive LEGO Mario, Luigi, or Peach figures.
- A dedicated starter course is necessary for the full gaming experience.
- Some may find the digital coin collection feature less exciting without additional context.
Playing with Yoshi's Gift House gave us a nostalgic trip, enhanced by Yoshi and Monty Mole waiting to be engaged with in various playful scenarios. Without a doubt, greeting Yoshi at his own adorable door felt like a heartwarming start to an engaging play session.
Assembling this set, you can't help but appreciate the thoughtfulness put into the design, like the fruit-knockdown feature and the cozy bed for a fictional naptime—innovative touches that keep the imagination alive. The option to gift fruits using the included box added a nice layer of interactivity that fostered a sense of sharing.
The Treat Merry-Go-Round was the standout with its ability to turn fruits gold, a creative way to blend physical building with digital play. The fruit colors popping against the colorful LEGO blocks certainly catch the eye, while the action of spinning the characters offered hands-on enjoyment.
For collectors and longtime fans, this set fits like a charm into the broader LEGO Super Mario universe. It's compact enough to display, yet packed with elements to keep builders occupied. However, remember it's not a standalone set, and the full enjoyment hinges on having the interactive figures and a starter course, which are sold separately. Despite that, we reveled in the setting it created, a testament to LEGO's ability to merge construction play with digital age concepts.
LEGO Super Mario Peach Starter Course
As avid LEGO and Super Mario enthusiasts, we recommend this set for its engaging interactivity and the delightful way it brings Princess Peach into the LEGO realm.
Pros
- Engaging interactive features that enhance play with expressive reactions
- Complements existing Mario sets for expanded play possibilities
- Intuitive app integration for creative play and easy building instructions
Cons
- Requires additional purchases for full experience (Mario and Luigi figures)
- Batteries not included for Peach figure
- Single character set may limit play variety without expansions
Taking Peach on an adventure through her own starter course just after unpacking the set has been a delight. Her LCD screen responds vibrantly to the various in-game actions, making the play feel dynamic and direct. It's impressive how seamlessly she interacts with other elements like the swing and the Yellow Toad, thanks to her color sensor. Earning digital coins with each successful action nudges you to explore every aspect of the course.
Connecting Peach via Bluetooth to Mario or Luigi figures we previously owned was effortless, and it introduced a rewarding layer of cooperative play. Our collective experience flourished as we worked together to gather coins and unlock bonuses. We haven't seen a companion app this useful before; it's replete with helpful features like digital building instructions and a plethora of inspiring play ideas.
We did notice that to make the most out of the LEGO Peach experience, you would likely need to pick up the Mario or Luigi figures if you haven't already. Plus, remembering to have AAA batteries on hand is crucial since the set doesn't come with them. While Peach's adventures are fun on their own, branching out to other sets really multiplies the joy and complexity of the game. Without these expansions, our gameplay began to feel a bit repetitive, but that's just an excuse to keep building our LEGO Super Mario world.
LEGO Super Mario Picnic Set
This LEGO Super Mario Picnic at Mario's House set is a hit with kids, offering diverse play options and imaginative scenarios.
Pros
- Encourages interactive play with features like a bed and picnic basket
- Yellow Yoshi figure adds a lovable character to the mix
- Compatible with LEGO Mario Starter Courses, enhancing the play experience
Cons
- Requires Starter Course for the full interactive experience
- Only one character figure included
- May be less challenging for older LEGO fans
After having a blast with the LEGO Super Mario Picnic at Mario's House, we can confidently say it's a delightful expansion to any Super Mario LEGO collection. The build is straightforward but does not lack details. Yellow Yoshi became an instant favorite, cheerfully interacting with our LEGO Mario figure as we navigated through the various activities.
We found the bed feature to be particularly fun, inviting us to pretend Mario was taking a well-deserved rest after collecting coins. The picnic element adds a charming touch, letting players 'feed' their characters, while the fishing mini-game offers a unique twist—moving the boat actually made us feel like we were fishing in Mario's world.
However, it's important to note that without the Starter Course, this set loses its interactive touch, serving then only as a traditional LEGO build. Also, including only one figure might feel limiting to some players. Those looking to expand their adventures would be better off with a larger variety of characters.
Overall, this LEGO set serves as a fantastic addition for young builders, sparking joy and creativity. Just keep in mind its reliance on the Starter Course and don't expect too much complexity from its construction, which might be less stimulating for seasoned LEGO enthusiasts.
DK's Tree House
Should you consider adding DK's Tree House to your LEGO Super Mario collection? Absolutely! This set delivers a colorful jungle adventure accentuated by the nostalgia of Donkey Kong and the creativity of LEGO.
Pros
- Immersive play with detailed Donkey Kong and Cranky Kong figures
- Encourages creativity by integrating other LEGO Super Mario sets
- Interactive elements enhance engagement through play variety
Cons
- Extra (Mario, Luigi, or Peach) figures needed for full play; not included
- More suitable for children familiar with LEGO building; could be complex for beginners
- May require app for some assembly instructions, which could be inconvenient
Our recent build session with the DK's Tree House was a blend of challenge and charm. The set's vivid pieces came together to construct a dense and lively treehouse that radiated the spirit of the classic video games. The attention to detail is striking; we found ourselves admiring the tiny, intricate elements like the buildable TV and the hidden compartment.
Integrating this set into our existing LEGO Super Mario world was a smooth experience. The modular design allows a level of customization and expansion that keeps us revisiting our setup, looking for new ways to evolve our stories. It's refreshing to see how each play session results in a different tale.
One aspect we value is the playability. Watching LEGO Mario hop onto Donkey Kong's back and distributing bananas around feels like an interactive piece of gaming history. It's rewarding and often leads to bouts of nostalgia. The interactive features work seamlessly, ensuring that there are fresh ways to earn those digital coins every time.
Although one could argue that the absence of a Mario, Luigi, or Peach figure limits the experience, our perspective is that it offers a golden opportunity to expand your character roster and brings a larger dimension to playtime. This minor setback hardly eases the thrill when the lively beats of the conga drums resonate through our playroom.
For Super Mario and Donkey Kong enthusiasts with a knack for LEGO, DK's Tree House opens up a new horizon of storytelling and interactive play. It's an excellent avenue to relive classic adventures and create new ones, making it a worthy addition to your expanding LEGO landscape.
Buying Guide
Understanding Compatibility
When selecting Lego Super Mario Sets, it's crucial to ensure the compatibility of various sets and expansion packs. These sets are designed to work together, so opting for ones that connect seamlessly will offer the best experience.
- Base Set: The cornerstone of Lego Super Mario is the starter course. It's essential to begin with this set since it includes the interactive Mario figure necessary for play.
- Expansion Sets: These add complexity and new challenges. They should be chosen based on how they complement the base set.
Compatibility Tip: Check the product details for compatibility information to confirm that all elements work in harmony.
Features to Consider
Not all Lego Super Mario Sets offer the same features, and it's important to prioritize what's most appealing to us. Consider these features:
- Interactivity: The degree of interactivity varies, so focus on sets with engaging features like sounds, movements, and digital integration.
- Difficulty Level: Sets come with different levels of complexity. Younger builders may benefit from simpler designs, while older enthusiasts might prefer challenging builds.
- Themes and Characters: Diverse themes and familiar characters can enrich the playing experience. Choose themes that resonate with our preferences.
Feature Tip: Balance complexity with interest to ensure long-term engagement with the set.
Assessing Value
To get the best value out of a Lego Super Mario Set, consider how much playability we get per dollar spent.
- Piece Count: Generally, a higher piece count offers a more intricate build and can indicate a better value.
- Replay Value: Sets with various possible configurations or those that encourage imaginative play tend to provide greater value over time.
Value Tip: Evaluate the longevity and versatility of a set versus its cost to judge its true value.
We should always cross-reference prices from multiple retailers to secure the best deal.
Frequently Asked Questions
We're here to provide you with information on the LEGO Super Mario universe that is both accurate and useful for your LEGO adventures.
What are the top-rated LEGO Super Mario sets currently available?
The highest-rated sets include the Adventures with Mario Starter Course, the Bowser's Castle Boss Battle Expansion Set, and the Master Your Adventure Maker Set. These sets offer diverse gameplay experiences and have received positive feedback from the LEGO community.
How much does the priciest LEGO Super Mario set cost?
The LEGO Super Mario Bowser's Airship Expansion Set is often considered the priciest set, retailing at around $99.99 in December 2023. Prices can fluctuate based on retailer and availability.
Can LEGO Mario figures be purchased individually?
Currently, LEGO Mario figures cannot be bought individually. They come bundled in starter packs or expansion sets which include various elements of the Super Mario series.
Are LEGO Luigi and LEGO Mario figures interchangeable within sets?
Yes, the LEGO Luigi and LEGO Mario figures are designed to be interchangeable. They can both interact with the same set components, providing flexibility in play.
What new LEGO Super Mario sets are being released in 2023?
We anticipate new sets joining the lineup, though LEGO has not released specific information on all the sets coming in 2023. Keep an eye on official LEGO announcements for the most up-to-date information.
Where can I find the LEGO Mario Piranha Plant set for purchase?
The LEGO Mario Piranha Plant set can be found at various retailers including LEGO's official website, toy stores, and online marketplaces like Amazon. Availability can vary, so we recommend checking with multiple sources.
