Another hit for the Wii

History has a way of repeating itself, and Mario's support of Nintendo is no exception. I have had my Wii for almost a year now and by far, my favorite games have all been Mario related titles - the most recent of which is Mario Kart. Although, the last Nintendo system I owned was the original NES, I have managed to play versions of mario kart over the years, and have to admit that it is one of my favorite video game franchises. The games are always fun and competitive, and the wii takes it to the next level.
First off, there are multiple playing options including grand prix, time trials, vs, and battle modes. Vs. and battle modes can also be played online (more on this later). Players will begin with 50, 100, and 150cc classes and a healthy assortment of characters, karts, and bikes to choose from. As you win races, more characters, courses, and vehicles will be unlocked. The savvy mario fan will appreciate references to great games of mario past, but not knowing a koopa from a goomba won't dampen the game play for the Nintendo novices out there. I mean, I am almost 30 years old, but I am sure that the multitude of players who are stomping me online were not born until well after SMB3.
Online mode is super smooth. No problems going online and hopping into a race right out the box. I have a wireless router at home and this game has been the quickest and easiest wii game to date with respect to online play. What is also nice, is that you can choose competition from regional, international, or friend pools. It is clear that developer put as much attention into online play as they did into the single player version.
Game play is fun and allows players to choose from multiple control options. Old skoolers may want to use a gamecube style controller, while newbies (to serious mario karting) like myself will enjoy the smooth use of the wiimote. The wheel is not necessary to use this mode. I also tried driving with the nunchuk and this method was easy as well, but to get the full Wii experience, turn your wiimote sideways and work on catching some air off the sweet jumps.
Standard power up such as shells and bananas are still here along with some new ones. The randomization of power ups tends to help out the racers at the back of the pack, but I think this enhances game play. No one is safe in the lead...