Mario Kart 8

The long awaited Mario Kart 8 for the Nintendo Wii U has arrived.Featuring a new anti-gravity racing,abilities, characters, and tracks, it's the year's most addictive and fun racing game.

Gameplay- Mario Kart 8 retains the classic Mario Kart formula, which haven't changed much over the years.However, battle mode is disappointing. Motorbikes makes a return from Mario Kart Wii, as well as the customization feature of Mario Kart 7.The anti-gravity mechanic gives the ability to race on walls and if you bump to other players, you'll earn an extra boost.It's a nice addition to the gameplay, that offers a bit of variety.There are over 30 characters to choose from, new are Baby Roslina, Pink Gold Peach, and the Koopalings.New abilities include the Boomerang, which can be thrown at other racers; the Piranha plant, which can attack racers and obstacles; the Super Horn, which can be used to attack racers or to defend against coming items; Finally, the Crazy Eight, grants you eight items to use.In addition, there are 32 tracks in total.There are 16 new tracks, which are great, and 16 tracks from past installments, which never looked better.

Mario Kart 8 features online multiplayer up to 12 players, with voice chat and leaderboards support.You can set up races and race against staff times, which gives stamps for Miiverse. A nice new addition is Mario Kart TV.Mario Kart TV replay's data from races, using slow-motion and rewind functionality, and can be uploaded to Youtube. 

Visuals & Sound- The best looking Mario Kart game and Wii U game.The tracks are crisp and stunning, as well as the character models and carts. Mario Kart 8 runs at 60 FPS and on a solid 30 FPS on 2 player mode.It's the most lively and detailed game on the Wii U.The majority of Mario Kart 8's soundtrack is orchastrated, which is really great to listen and is the best in the series.

Overall- Despite the lackluster character roster, Mario Kart 8 is the Wii U's best racing game and one year's best games.It's innovative, fun, and will be played for years to come.

EXCELLENT