Set Review ➟ LEGO® 72050 - Luigi & Match 8
I’ve been a Mario player across several of his games—a fan since childhood—although I admit I haven’t kept up with the LEGO line; you can’t follow every theme released, it’s simply not viable for the wallet. Fortunately, I’ll be able to enjoy this enormous set, both for its techniques and for the iconic character it represents. Set 72050 contains 2,234 pieces, is rated for adults 18+, and costs €179.99 on the official website. Fancy taking a look? Let’s get to it!
The contents comprise 22 bags, tyres, rims and, of course, the instruction manual.
The first section consists of the kart’s base. The steering mechanism is very clever and capable. Admittedly, the steering wheel only allows a few degrees of rotation, but the kart will still turn well. Note the size of the red seat base designed to accommodate Luigi. The rotation mechanism is based on a sort of “cage” of Technic arms connected to ball-jointed arms. Simple, yet highly effective.
The steering wheel connection is excellent. We start to see triangulation that will later need to be neatly covered with the panels we build. At this point, the kart’s dimensions are already quite evident. This build strongly reminds me of set 10317, the Land Rover Classic Defender 90. In other words, a very well-balanced mix of small but cleverly integrated Technic structures with traditional bricks and plates.
The side panelling begins to be added, and it’s already clear that the shaping between panels is going to be extremely refined…
With this set of pieces, you’ll see how fantastic Luigi’s kart nose turns out.
This section of panelling and glazing is remarkable. Despite the intricate inner structure, placing the panels is so simple it’s almost hard to believe. The result is impeccable.
From here on, we move to the rear section of the kart. Same approach: small sub-builds and panels gradually come together to achieve the best possible shaping.
These kinds of techniques clearly reflect deep expertise. The resulting angles look fantastic.
The panels are attached with minimal connections, yet once placed you realise how well they fit—firm and secure, simply clipped onto a small ball joint!
Following this building approach, the kart model is nearly complete. Only the rear spoiler remains. The technique used here is a collection of small, highly technical details that fit together beautifully—truly impressive. The model is finished by adding the wheels. Once attached, I noticed they’re not especially firm, though the model still functions well.
Next, the display stand is built. It’s very simple, but the 360° tilting system is a brilliant touch.
We now begin building the Luigi figure. The torso’s structural design is interesting. For instance, what keeps the arms relatively firm? As you can see, a trio of intermeshed gears is used, though they’re not connected to anything else. This increases friction in the axle’s rotation, preventing the arms from flopping around—something seen in other LEGO models that I personally haven’t liked. Here, it’s solved in a simple yet ingenious way.
Once the torso and limbs are complete, we move on to the head—arguably the most interesting part of the character build. The technique is intricate, precise, and the module fit is very accurate and faithful. Here you can see parts of the internal structure.
And the facial result.
The finishing touch is the cap. A great set of small modules that, when assembled, produce a truly stunning result. What a spectacle!
Here you can see Luigi’s modules. The legs are not movable, unlike the arms. I do miss that articulation in the lower limbs—I would have loved to pose him standing. That said, it wouldn’t be difficult to modify it to achieve this.
The race is about to begin… let’s go!
The model impressed me almost entirely. Considering the part count, the price is fair; the techniques are excellent throughout. Its collector’s value is very high—who wouldn’t want to display such a beautiful model? A major positive is its playability, as it’s quite fun to interact with. The least playable aspect is what I mentioned earlier: the legs are fixed in a bent position, so the figure mainly moves its arms and head. Even so, it can still be enjoyable for those who like to play. This is undoubtedly a highly sought-after set for collectors, Mario & Luigi fans, and of course AFOLs who enjoy building from such a strong parts selection.
We thank the LEGO Group for providing the set for this review, although LEGO does not endorse or support the opinions expressed here, as they are solely our own.
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