My kids have quite the KNEX collection, even some with motors. They enjoy playing with KNEX by building the kits and creating their own creations. They also like playing the Wii lately, especially MARIOKART. We were so excited to hear that KNEX has new building sets with MARIOKART characters, Mario, Luigi, and more.
Video Review of MARIOKART Wii Building Sets
Check out our short video review on MARIOKART Wii Building Sets!
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R6jLTQ9GtOU[/youtube]MARIOKART Wii KNEX Mario and Standard Kart Building Set Review
Both MARIOKART building sets are for ages 6 and up. My son is 6 and wanted to start with the MARIOKART Wii KNEX Mario and Standard Kart Building Set. With direction and some assistance from Dad, Elijah was able to build the Kart. What I really like about KNEX is their directions. They offer simple, pictorial directions that are easily followed. We always start by grouping like pieces together before starting any building set project. This is sort of the same technique we use when putting a jigsaw puzzle together by grouping and putting together the outside parameter first.
The MARIOKART Mario building set has 66 pieces, including Mario and Banana. This kit was large enough to be a challenge but not too overwhelming to complete for my 6 year old. Again, with some direction and assistance, he was able to assemble this kit. Kids of all ages need the feeling of accomplishment, KNEX is an excellent tool.
The MARIOKART Wii KNEX Mario and Standard Kart Building Set has a real motor. After assembled, simply pull the Mario Kart backward, then release. The Kart actually gets some good speed and distance! We had a fantastic time playing with Mario and his Kart on our dining room floor. Mario stayed seated and didn’t fall off , nor did the pieces of the Kart while traveling.
MARIOKART Wii KNEX Luigi and Standard Bike Building Set Review
After my kids had fun playing with MARIOKART Wii KNEX Mario and Standard Kart Building Set with the motor, I wasn’t sure if Luigi and his Bike would be a hit. He doesn’t move, although Luigi does have a pretty cool ride.
The MARIOKART Wii KNEX Luigi and Standard Bike Building Set includes 31 pieces, including Luigi himself. This kit took a lot less time for my son to complete. He did just have practice with the 66 piece Mario and the kit is less than ½ the size.
Had I thought about it, I would have offered this set first, to build confidence. Lucky for me, the KNEX directions were so clear that there were no frustrations with either set. I can’t tell you how important those directions are for me with building sets. I enjoy building sets with my kids but when the instructions are unclear, it is frustrating for everyone.
Now that it was time to get on the floor with both MARIOKART Wii KNEX Mario and Luigi, I wondered how the kids would react and expected a conflict on who would get the motorized Mario. Boy was I wrong! My 4 year old girl and 6 year old boy wanted Luigi and his cool Bike! So funny. They did actually take turns nicely but I thought it was funny that what I expected was the opposite. I should have known my 4 year old girl would go for Luigi because she is always saying when she gets big, she will have a motorcycle, a pink one, of course.
Buy MARIOKART Wii Building Sets
You can buy MARIOKART Wii Building Sets, including the Mario with his Kart ($19.99) and Luigi with his Bike ($9.99) that I reviewed exclusively on KNEX website. Also available is Luigi with his Motorized Kart, Yoshi with his Motorized Kart, and Mario with a non-motorized Bike.
This was not a paid post. My own opinions were used based on my perceptions and experience. Thank you to KNEX who provided the products for review.
