The general racing idea is also the same. Choose a cup series (mushroom, flower, etc.), then race four tracks to win a first, second, or third place trophy. Weapon boxes strewn throughout the tracks offer a few new items, but many look and operate exactly the same as previous Mario Kart titles.
There are four series that unlockable, and a few of the series are made up of older tracks imported from previous Mario Kart titles. You can bring back most of your favorites with revamped graphics if you are truly feeling nostalgic. For younger players, the huge selection of tracks will be appreciated. For older Mario Kart vets from the SNES, the inclusion of some of our favorite tracks is much appreciated.
A new twist to the racing flavor is the Wii racing wheel. Turn the racing wheel (or naked horizontal Wiimote) a la Excite Bike to drive. Use the “2” button to accelerate, “B” to launch weapons, “1” to brake, and the up and down on the d-pad to decide the direction your weapon will take.
In addition to using the Wii racing wheel, Nintendo has come up with the ingenious idea to include other remote configurations to suit player’s needs. Players can use a Wiimote and nunchuk, a naked Wiimote, a Wii classic controller, or a Gamecube controller. YES! For all of us slobs that kept our crappy Gamecubes, there is a use for the controllers! And thank you Nintendo: Gamecube controllers are extremely cheap compared to a Wiimote and nunchuk configuration. Now knowing Nintendo doesn’t plan to rape my wallet, I can put away the lube I’ve been saving….
Mario Kart also offers a whole slew of new cars and bikes to race with. Each mode of transportation has its pros and cons, but all of them look sweet. The variety is also appreciated and helps keep things fresh. Because of the new rides, Nintendo has stipulated that 50cc races only include cars, 100cc races only include bikes, and 150cc races can include either.
