Closing Comments
After experiencing Mario Kart DS, it's hard to imagine how Nintendo's going to improve on what they've done for this stunning portable rendition. There's so much gameplay and depth in this design, moreso than the series has ever had in the past. It's an amazingly addictive racer both in single and multiplayer modes, and even with the limitations of the online functions, it's impossible to avoid becoming addicted to the long distance Mario Kart match-ups. The only way to finish this review is just to say it: this is the greatest Mario Kart game ever developed, and is without a doubt the best DS game of 2005.
9.5 Presentation
Incredibly thorough single and multiplayer experience with tons of options to beef up the variety. The online component works simply and elegantly, but it's just a little too restrictive.
9.0 Graphics
Super fast, super smooth 3D engine drives the action. All the Mario-esque elements are represented here, and even though the characters are low-poly they still look fantastic.
9.0 Sound
The happy, peppy Mario style of music continues on its happy and peppy direction. Some voice samples are more compressed than others. Stereo effects are outstanding and work well on the DS speakers.
10 Gameplay
This is the best of the Mario Kart best. Kart and weapon balance is incredibly tight, new track designs are fantastic, and the game has an extraordinary amount of playtime well after
10 Lasting Appeal
If there's any game you'll continuously come back to, it's this one. Single cart, multiple cart, and online multiplayer, and single player finally has "bots" for practicing Battle Mode!
OVERALL: 9.5 Incredible
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Granted, Super Mario Kart and Mario Kart Double Dash were jury-rigged to work in an online atmosphere back in the day, but Mario Kart DS is the first official full-fledged worldwide racing experience for the Nintendo franchise, and it works pretty darn well."Read more of the story Here:
http://ds.ign.com/articles/666/666125p3.html
