Mario Kart 8 - Wii U

Who says that sibling rivalry dies when you reach adulthood? For Christmas, my brother and his family got a Wii U. Guess who bought one before New Year’s. That’s right, it would be me. And this is despite not playing my Wii much at all during 2014. I also had to buy the latest version of my favorite Wii game – Mario Kart 8. Yes, it is just as awesome as I expected it to be. If you’ve played any of the previous seven versions of this game, you know the basics. You are racing against 11 other characters around fantastic courses trying to get first place in various cups. Depending on where you place in each of the four races, you earn points that determine your overall place in the cup. So what’s different this time around? There are new courses, for starters. About half of the courses are new or at least new variations on familiar themes. Of these, my favorites in the Twisted Mansion (a haunted house), Toad Harbor, and Sunshine Airport. Then there are 16 retro courses from the previous versions of the game. Since this is only the third Mario Kart I’ve bought, there are plenty on here I don’t recognize, but I do enjoy playing the familiar Moo Moo Meadow and Grumble Volcano from the Wii, the last version I bought. And a couple of the courses are one long race instead of going around the same course for three laps. For those, we get check points. If you are familiar with the Wii version, the controls will be familiar as well. Once again, you can use your Wiimote and tilt it to control your car. Or you can use your Nunchuck controller. And yes, the game pad controller that comes with the Wii U can also be used as a controller with either tilt or thumb stick control. There are a couple of changes to game play from the last version. They have brought the use of coins back to the game. They had used them in the very first Mario Kart, the one of the SNES. (And yes, that’s the other one I have.) Collecting coins will increase your speed. It’s a small amount, but I can see the boost at times. You start with somewhere between zero (1st place) and 5 (12th place) and can collect up to 10. They are scattered around the maps. Of course, you lose three each time you are hit by an object or drive off the edge of the map. (And if you do drive off the edge, they actually put you back on course faster than before, too.) In addition to being on the maps, coins might be hiding in the mystery boxes you can pick up along the way. If that is your prize, you’ll find two coins. Other new surprises are plants that will attack your fellow races and gobble up coins, a boomerang, and fire power. Of course, there are plenty of the old standbys like Bullet Bill, red and green shells, and invincibility. The final change to the game is the gravity defying part of the game. Parts of the courses allow you to race up walls and even upside down. There are clear indicators in the game when this is happening. It really doesn’t change how your car operates, but it is fun to think about. Oh, and if you crash into an opponent in this section of a course, you get a boost! Obviously, this is more prevalent on the new courses, but they’ve switched up a few of the old courses to let you do this as well. In addition to the traditional races, you can also do timed trials and fight battles to pop your opponent’s balloons. And you can race by yourself or with up to four people in the same room. Plus they’ve brought back the ability to play against people all over the world thanks to the internet. One or two people per machine can log in and race or battle to their hearts content. One change here I really like is that at the start of each new race, you are given a choice from three randomly selected courses. Everyone votes for one of those three and then the game randomly selects the course you actually race. If those three really don’t appeal to you, you do have a fourth choice – random, which will randomly pick any course in the system not necessarily one of those three courses. Overall, this cuts down significantly on those annoying people on line who always select the same course over and over again. There are a couple of things I don’t like about this game. First, the rankings and course map don’t appear in part of the TV screen but on the GamePad during the race. Any time I glance down to see those things, I lose track of where I am on the TV screen. Maybe I’ll get used to it as I go along. I’m also not happy that they have developed some extra content that is for sale separately. Oh, we get as many courses with this version as we did for the Wii, so they aren’t skimping on us, but after spending $60 for this game, it seems a shame that I have to pay extra for the final few characters and courses. I’ve resisted – so far, but I have a feeling I will wind up buying them. The game looks and sounds great. The picture is crisp and the sounds effects are fun. Both are definitely a step up from the last version, but what else would you expect from new video game system that uses an HDMI cable. Of course, it’s all still highly stylized cartoon action, but for what it is, it looks great. I’d been debating for a while about buying the new system, but I’m glad I did. So far, I’ve been concentrating on Mario Kart 8, just because it’s always been a favorite franchise. I’m sure I’ll be racing around these tracks for some time to come.

Mario kart 8 is the greatest mario kart game since 64. While I did enjoy the gamecube-mk7 mario karts the were always just a bit to chaotic and more lucked based. All the mario karts are of coarse luck based and this on is no diffrent when it comes to that however its more balanced and even though small amount of luck is needed prepare to practice your driving skills as well you will need it online and on mirror mode. Hardware wize this game looks amazing for being on the wii u and i'd say surpasses most ps4/xbone games. I say this because the graphics keep the game running smooth while looking absolutly beautiful at the same time. The game is truely a work of art. The sound on this game is great to I recomend playing on surround sound if available. Surprizingly the karts sound like actual gokarts, mopeds, etc, even more so then most driving simulation games have done so far. As for the soundtrack its really good the more jazzish soundtrack on a few of the tracks flows very well with the races. Of coarse when it comes to mario kart none of that hardware and sound really matters as long as the game is fun. Which is where this game really shines. As mentined earlier the game is a lot more balanced you will see more green and red turtle shells then you will bullets, blue shells, other items that effect everybody in this version and its also slightly easier to dodge the red ones as well you have to be close up for a gurenteed hit. Of coarse you will still see plenty of items that effect everyone to so blue shells still cost races occasionally. However if you have the new item the super horn you can dodge it if you use it correctly. Also As usual there are 16 new coarses and 16 coarses from older games. The new tracks are amazing in this game as are *most* the older tracks. Most ofThe older tracks in this on are changed a lot so the feel new I like to think of it as new tracks inspired by the older ones The newest thing about this game is the anti gravity mode which turns the world of mario kart upside down. You will be driving up walls on ceilings and everything which really shakes things up. When your in this mode if you hit someone it actually speeds both players up so it leads to intresting things. Of coarse there is also new power ups such as the pirhana plant, superhorn, and a few others that replaced older ons that are sadly missing such as boo, fake question blocks. Also returning from Mk7 is underwater and hang gliding which was the best part about that on. With all that being said there is a few things wrong with this version of mario kart. Most importantly the battle mode is broken no more battle coarses instead you fight on regular coarses which is just plain lame and lazy on nintendos part. Also some of the n64 coarses are barely reconizeable toads turnpike has 4 lanes of traffic with them going in diffrent ways which competly kills the challenge of the original on mirror mode. Yoshis valley also tells what place your in which even though originally it was supposed to it was more fun not knowing. However don't let those minor nitpicks change your mind unless your big into the battle mode, the racing and multiplayer is the greatest mario kart has been in years and if you dont have a wii u you need to get on for this game along with 3d world. Also before july if you register this game on club nintendo you get a free game

Mario Kart 8 takes a tried and tested formula that has worked for 22 years, keeps it, gives it some fun and exciting new ideas, and wraps it in beautiful HD gameplay! Playing this alone in full screen is fun, but c'mon, you really buy this game because you want to play it together! The soundtrack is mostly live recorded instruments, so that adds a funky jazz punch to everything, which is really cool! The music also adapts to the environment within races, like when you're underwater and it's somewhat subdued, then you come out into the sun and a tenor sax just starts wailing... it's wonderful! Learning to skid will reward you for the time spent with satisfying explosions out of turns, and they're really necessary to do well, particularly in the hardest difficulty. The anti-grav stuff is fun, including bumping into other karts for a speed boost. It's all pretty subtle, though. Most of the time, I can't even tell whether I'm upside-down or sideways or right-side-up, and that's a good thing because it doesn't make you sick. I have to watch the highlight reel to realize "Oh, that part I did earlier is sideways!" Local multiplayer works wonderfully, as we've had people over for long sessions of playing nothing but this. There is a ton of unlockable content, and it unlocks very frequently as you collect coins on the track and win the Grand Prix in different difficulties, which you can (and should) do as a group because it takes even less time. Plus, you can feel like you accomplished something together. Online multiplayer works seamlessly for what it is. A couple of gripes: First, there is no system-wide notification for friends who want to play together online. You have set up a time by some outside means and coordinate that way. Some kind of Wii U-level multiplayer request system would be nice (like if I want to play one race with a friend who's logged into their Wii U... you have to call them and say "Hey, I see you're on your Wii U. Wanna play?") Second, there is no chat system for online match-made multiplayer (automatically pairing you with people you don't know to play), even in regional mode where you should be speaking the same language. The one upside to this is that parents know for sure that their kids won't be exposed to language they don't want them to hear. These are minor gripes, though, as the online multiplayer works quickly and reliably for what it is. There are many options for control. You can use tilt controls on either the Wii Remote of the Gamepad, or use the Remote with the D-pad, or the Remote with the Nunchuck, or the Gamepad with the joystick, or the Wii (or Wii U) Pro Controller. Overall, it's a must-buy for Wii U owners of all ages. Have some people over, play online, play by yourself. It's all wonderful!

Where do I start with this game! This game is so enjoyable and just about anyone can pick it up and play! Literally two five year olds picked up this game and within a matter of minutes had the controls down! Hats off to Nintendo for that! This is a great family game! For starters I want to point out that if you register this game with Club Nintendo, you receive one of the four following games for FREE! Legend of Zelda Wind Waker HD Pikimin 3 Wii Party U Super Mario Bros. U Be sure to register your code before July 31st to receive this special promotion, as you are getting two games for under $60! Ok. On to the controllers. With this game you can use any combination of the Wii U Gamepad, Pro Controller, or Wii Plus Controller. This is not like Super Mario Bros. U, where if you use the Gamepad, you aren't actually using it or can use it to play if you are using a combination of the other controllers to play. The Wii U Gamepad functions like a regular controller in combination of the other controllers. Plenty of reviewers have covered the gameplay so I won't touch on that much. The one nuisance that I have found in this game is the powerups. If you are in the lead, forget about getting any sort of speed boosters! You will either continuously get green shell or coin. I think this is Nintendo's way of trying to keep the game balanced, but considering that you can get blue shelled at any point, it would be nice to get a speed booster to get ahead enough to where you can recover without everyone passing you. The Game is divided into 3 different types of cup races. 50cc, 100cc, and 150cc. Most players will blast through 50cc with 3 stars no problem! The 100cc is much tougher and the 150cc is nightmarish if you haven't mastered the tracks! The online multiplayer aspect of the game is wonderful. For anyone who just picked up the game, I suggest playing through all three, 50cc, 100cc and 150cc and trying to get all three stars before playing online multiplayer. I started right after finishing the 50cc and placed last almost every time. I thought I was something special after easily finishing the 50cc portion of the game but I wasn't. The game has a very balanced feel to it and it is rather enjoyable! Call of Duty will continue to collect dust for a while because this game is hard to put down! You don't have to be a fan of the Mario Kart series to enjoy this. This is my first Mario Kart game since the N64 and I am so glad I picked it up. Games like this make are what make the Wii U a worthy purchase! If you have any questions that I may not have covered, please feel free to ask and I hope this review helped!

It's a sad day for Nintendo's Mario Kart franchise. The most recent installment is sorely lacking for controls and fun. First the positive - one of the most visual stunning games in the series with great back drops and cool player animations. Unfortunately, that is the end of the good stuff. Mario related games, while not always the best graphically, have been leaders in quick response controls and high enjoyment. This game falls far short of that with poor responding controls and almost PS One like load times. The carts & bikes drive like furniture through a tar pit with sluggish at best response times. The drift system has been ruined with a gargantuan annoying hop at the start of the drift that takes away control and offers little gain for speed. Unfortunately the tracks are filled with tight angle turns that require drifting so be prepared to spend a lot of time trying to guess the best angle slide for the upcoming turn. Maybe they should call it Mario Kart Sk8te as you spend most of the course trying to find the best way to slide versus actually steering through the obstacles. The new items are ok but not outstanding and the loss of carry for an extra item in inventory is poor change. The computer AI is predictable and missing the frantic fun of previous installments. The overall speed of the game is slow with little difference between 50 cc & 150 cc. Also an unfortunate side effect of the above changes results in a lack of ability to catch up to computer AI characters. Less items, poor drift, and poor control means that if you have a crash early you won't catch up at all. Sadly this doesn't apply in reverse as the computer makes all the turns perfectly! Overall this is one of the poorest games released in some time. Sure it's great to look at but obviously Nintendo sacrificed control and fun for better looking water and backgrounds. I wish they would stick to what they are good at which is fast, fun , easy to control games good for the entire family.

Mario Kart 8 is a fun and colorful racing game that’s great for family game nights or casual play. The graphics are sharp, the tracks are creative, and the character roster is enjoyable. It’s easy to pick up and play, but some of the more advanced tracks and online races can be challenging for beginners. The game is entertaining for both solo and multiplayer modes, though younger players or newcomers may need a few rounds to get the hang of drifting and item use. Overall, it’s a solid addition to any Wii U collection, but it’s not without its occasional frustrations during competitive play. Pros: Fun, colorful tracks with engaging graphics Variety of characters and vehicles Great for solo or multiplayer fun Classic Mario Kart mechanics that are enjoyable Cons: Steeper learning curve on some advanced tracks Online races can be competitive and frustrating for new players Requires motion controls or familiarity with Wii U setup Mario Kart 8 is an entertaining racing game with lots of content and replay value. It’s perfect for family play and Mario Kart fans, though beginners may need a little practice to fully enjoy the competitive aspects.

So, you know the drill - a few new weapons, karts go upside down, all the vehicles and customization from Mario Kart Wii and 7...I'm sure it's fun, but it's sounding a bit like a rehash, right? On some level, it is, but this is like that perfect burger - you know the one, the one where no matter how many you've eaten, and the fact that they're all basically the same thing, had you saying "whoa" like Keanu in the Matrix. The amount of polish Nintendo has put into this thing is astounding, even by Nintendo standards. The graphics look fantastic, especially in 60fps - Nintendo is continuing the super-saturated neon look they used to great success in Super Mario 3D World, but of particular note here is the animations: you've seen Luigi's death stare, but all the characters sport little details that really help to bring them to life...you're going to have a favorite driver, and you're going to get attached to them, which makes winning that much sweeter (and losing that much more painful). The tracks are almost characters themselves here - the aforementioned details are all over the place, from the pack of Yoshis cheering you on at Yoshi's Valley, to the birds hanging out on the track at Royal Raceway. There's 32 tracks, and while only half of them are "new", that's kind of disingenuous - the old tracks have been outfitted with all kinds of bells and whistles - antigravity sections, jumps, you name it. The new tracks are a joy to play, with just the right mix of shortcuts, features, and opportune places to ruin someone's day with a red shell. Speaking of ruining days, Nintendo's online features give you the ability to ruin (and be ruined) by people all over the globe - matchmaking works fairly well, and the play it buttery smooth...no lag, which is so crucial in a twitch racing game. Not having speech/free-form text is a bummer here - you're limited to canned responses like "Good Game!", but it's honestly preferable to dealing with a bunch of jocks hurling racial slurs playing Halo. If you can, though, this is couch multiplayer at its finest - get your friends together, and get ready for an awesome time. With the number of controllers WiiU is packing, you can have tilt controls with the remote for those that prefer it, and sticks for the pros via (the appropriately named) WiiU Pro Controller. Only complaint here is that the framerate and graphics take a hit. So, have a WiiU? An almost required purchase - if you have friends to play with, this is couch multiplayer perfected, and if not, the online features are enough to keep you karting for months to come. Don't have a WiiU? This might be what pushes you over the edge.

To start off, I own the Xbox One and had a PS4 for a month before it Blue Stripe of Deathed on me. I love game consoles - probably a bit more than I love games themselves - so understand I'm not a fanboy (fanboi? Sk8rboi?) of a particular system. My WiiU hadn't been getting much play since beating Super Mario 3D World and even less before that. The current gen was, overall, fairly underwhelming and I'd moved back to my Steam box and PC gaming for the most part, hoping for a game to bring me back to these new consoles. Not being a big FPS guy, those games weren't Watchdogs/Call of Duty/Titan Fall. I've always been a fan of Mario Kart, though I have my favorites in the SNES version and the N64 version. They had, in my opinion, been going down hill since the GameCube - Double Dash was my least favorite of the entire franchise. The odd portable release was very good, but nothing on the console was really compelling. Mario Kart 8 however borders on a perfect Mario Kart release. I can say, without a doubt, that this is my favorite Mario Kart game. It harkens back to the N64 days. The races are fun, new (though familiar), and exciting. The rubber band AI has been greatly reduced and now races well, but not nearly as cheaply as it did in recent games. When you lose to the AI, it doesn't feel like you were robbed. As much. Maybe a little. There are a lot of great new tracks, as well as a huge selection of ported tracks from older games. 4 player doesn't feel cramped and is an absolute blast. I'm not a fan of the WiiMote steering, but changing is quick and painless. The game still has the 'first in' ordering system, so your screen moves around in a 4 player setting depending on who hits A first. That's been a gripe for a while and hasn't been fixed, but it's hardly even a smudge on the silver. The big gripe that a lot of people have - and rightly so - is the terrible Battle implementation. There are no arena courses. Just the existing race courses. No compass. No map. Just the race course. So it never really feels like you're battling. Just racing with balloons. For me - and your mileage will likely vary - Battle has never been my game of choice. If I have friends over, we're playing Grand Prix. So this isn't a big deal. However, if you love Battle, this is probably going to really put a damper on your experience. Hopefully an update will show up with classic arena tracks for that mode, but until then beware if that's your jam. Pros: Tons of car customizations A return to classic racing style Awesome characters Bright, fun, a great party game Highlight reels are usually a good laugh Cons: Battle mode is flawed No King Boo Luigi will haunt your dreams with his glare

Awesome game, kids really enjoyed it. I must say wii u has the best games for kids as compared to sony or xbox. Mario is evergreen

I bought this game for my Dad because he really loved Mario Kart for the Wii. My Dad whose in his 60's got his game and played it right away he was so excited for it. It has lived up to his expectations and my older brother whose played it will him a few times. They love that you can customize the Kart and the levels are really fun. I know that this will keep my Dad busy for many months and the replay value on it whether alone or playing with friends is very high. Well worth the cost!

It arrived in perfect shape. I enjoy playing couch games, and this is hands down one of the best to spend time with wife and friends. It has 8 cups and you can buy another 2. I didn't like much that you can also buy racers, though it has a good 16 of them included, most of them are baby versions of the others. Regardles the tracks are superb and you will spend days trying to master the vehicles, speeds, and tracks. Llego en perfecto estado, me gustan mucho los juegos locales, no hay nada como un juego local sin lag, sin dificultad de conexiones y además divertido, este cumple con todo, gran variedad de pistas, de corredores y de dificultades o velocidades. Incluso puedes comprar mas pistas y corredores si eso no es suficiente. Tiene mucha diversion y rejugabilidad. Altamente recomendado.

Easily my favourite Mario Kart in a long time. The upgraded graphics on the Wii U make this Mario Kart an absolute blast to play. Controls are tight, responsive, and fun. Sound and graphics are superb. Character selection is awesome and so is map selection. DLC is cheap and completely worth buying. I would highly recommend this game to ANYONE AND EVERYONE with a Wii U

Muy bien producto, llego en buenas condiciones y funcionando al 100%