Set Review ➟ Bombs away! 71366 Boomer Bill Barrage
Today we are having a look at the Boomer Bill Barrage Expansion Set (71366).
Not sure what to think about this set? I wasn't either when I first saw the images, but fear not, it will all make sense in a minute or so.
The LEGO Super Mario hinges on the Mario hub; the little action figure/block that comes in the starter course. All the other sets are add-ons that can only be used if you already have the Mario starter pack.
In addition to the Mario figure, the Starter Pack also contains the Start and End zones for every level. Add-on packs are ways to make the levels more interesting by adding additional elements and interactions. Whenever you see an add-on pack, just imagine there is a start tube (like at the beginning of every Super Mario level on the computer or game console) and an end flag…anywhere.
So what is there to interact with in this add-on? This set comes with three main elements and one core challenge or obstacle. Let's start with the obstacle.
The objective of this add-on is to get Mario across the water, using a turning platform. As you can see in the image below, there are two platforms that rotate around a central pivot. The platform offers two levels of difficulty: you can stick Mario on the platform that has studs around the edge. Mario will not really click onto the studs. The connection on his feet has been kept quite loose allowing you to take him off again quite easily. It does add a bit of stability though, as Mario wont slide sideways so easily.
If you are feeling more adventurous (or skilled) you can use the platform that has no studs, increasing the level of difficulty.
It isn't just about turning the platform with Mario on top though. You can see the teeth of the dark bluish grey gears that are hidden under the platforms. These can mesh with another gear at the base of a second rotating platform that holds two Boomer Bills.
While turning the platform you will also intermittently rotate the Boomer Bills and they in turn may also throw Mario off the platform. There's an element of luck, but mostly it is down to getting handy with the platform to avoid Mario falling or being pushed off.
The gameplay is a lot of fun and since you don't only earn points by getting across, but also by staying on the platform (a little) longer, it can become a fun challenge to find the right balance between speed and skill.
In addition to the central challenge the set comes with two characters: Shy Guy and Super Mushroom. Each of them has a printed tile with a barcode and you will have to play around with Mario to find out what it takes to defeat them and score more points.
Shy Guy has the printed tile on his back, so you know you need to push him over to score points.
Super Mushroom of course has the tile on his head so you can stomp on it.
The challenge is set. Now you just need to integrate this add-on into your Starter Course to expand the level in any way you like!
We wish to thank LEGO for providing this set for review. The opinions in this review are not supported or endorsed by LEGO.
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