MAAAARRRRIOOOO KAAARRRT EIIIIGHHHHHHT!
That’s how the game starts with Mario’s trademark high pitched yell. The fun tunes kick in shortly there after, sounding very “Mario” but also very “sports.” Mario Kart 8 is the most recent entry into Nintendo’s venerable series and this one marks it’s debut on the WiiU (which is quickly becoming a must-own system.)
For those of you unfamiliar with Mario Kart the premise is simple. Take Mario Bros. characters (Mario, Luigi, Toad, and a host of others) and put them on stylish go-karts and have them race around fun and exciting tracks. The game is filled with fun power-ups that add an element of chaos to the proceedings. In last place? Don’t worry! Pick up a Blue Shell and detonate the poor schlub in first place! You may not win, but you’ll at least get some healthy schedenfreude from the act.
The visuals are beautiful and the tracks are colorful cartoon masterpieces that allow the player to really immerse themselves in the fun world of the Mushroom Kingdom. There are 32 tracks in the basic version of the game, 16 of which are brand new, and 16 are updated versions of old favorites (including an old version of Rainbow Road, as well as a brand spanking new one). There is some new DLC (downloadable content) that is available featuring additional tracks and characters, so definitely check it out.
If you have the means, and a WiiU, then check out Mario Kart 8! You’ll be glad you did.
How fun! We all love Mario Kart in our home! We’ll have to get Mario Kart 8 for a family Christmas present.
I haven’t played Mario in forever! I need to bust this out and teach the kids a thing or two.
Mario kart is a favorite video game in our house! My kids will freak out about #8!!
I’m not sure who is going to be the most excited about this, my husband or kids. This will be under our tree for sure.