The latest iteration of Mario-Kart sees quite a big shift towards family gaming, there is something here for everyone. I have seen complete non-gamers able to launch themselves straight into Mario Kart Wii and manage to get along reasonably well with it, which is probably a first for Mario Kart. Nintendo have also managed to ensure that the more serious gamer is still well entertained and challenged at the same time thanks to some clever difficulty balancing.

There are 16 standard tracks to choose from and 16 classic tracks to try. There is also an online multiplayer option for increased longevity. In addition to this, battle mode is still here, with 3 different game types, that still never manage to be as compelling as the original SNES battle mode, but are far better here than in double dash.

The controls are fairly easy to get to grips with when using the wiimote tilt controls, and would be my recommended choice for new users. I personally prefer to play with a classic controller for closer control over drifting, an option for more advanced users. The enclosed wheel is not worth bothering with in my opinion and neither have I ever seen other players favour it after having a go with it. It is essentially just a hunk of plastic that goes around your wiimote and offers very little to the game rather than the annoyance of attaching and detaching and then finding somewhere to store it!


The inclusion of some old tracks from previous incarnations of Mario Kart is a very welcome addition, although I am a little disappointed at the choice of tracks here given the huge variety that could've been chosen from. However, this is a minor complaint because all of the tracks here do play very well and fit the modernised gameplay well.

Overall, this is a great game that is far better played in groups and caters for a wide range of abilities. A perfect way to spend a Christmas afternoon.