Those familiar with the Mario Kart franchise know that the series hasn't radically changed since its inception. Ultimately, the formula has remained the same, and Mario Kart Wii doesn't change tradition. This is the same fun kart racer you grew up with, and, hey, if you didn't grow up with Mario Kart, the game serves as an excellent opportunity for you to join in on the fun.
There's a solid number of courses here, including 16 new ones and 16 returning classics from previous Mario Kart iterations. The variety of course types is good. Whether you prefer simple, straightforward courses or animated, obstacle-filled ones, you'll find something for you. Visually speaking, the variety of tracks is pleasing, too. You'll race down a snowy slope, through Bowser's castle, in and out of a volcano, on a twisty rainbow road in space, down a congested city highway complete with traffic and on many other kinds of courses. In typical Mario Kart style, the courses are a huge reason why this racer is so much fun. The other crucial ingredient in the formula responsible for Mario Kart's success is the series' collection of items and weapons, which you'll use to take down opponents as you race for first place. All your favorite items -- red shells, green shells, bananas, lightning bolts and others -- are back, and along with them, some new ones, such as the POW block and the thunder cloud.