Great Racing Game

I probably would not have purchased Mario Kart were it not for all my friends buying it, but I am so glad I did. Even my wife who was completely against me buying it because she hates racing games has thoroughly enjoyed Mario Kart. I had never played the previous installations of Mario Kart racing so I had no preconceived expectations. First off the game is incredibly fun to play whether you are playing single player, with a group live or even online. Sure the game is slanted so that if you are in the lead the game will do everything in its power to stop you but you have so much fun playing that you just don't care. The online play is incredibly well put together with the option of pairing up against friends or playing with anyone out there. My only gripe with the online play is that it could be a little easier to get back out of a match and would be nice if you could switch characters or vehicles between races more easily. The graphics take great advantage of the Wii's ability and the lighting is beautiful. The controls are easy to use but as far as the Wii Wheel is concerned I'm just not a big fan. I think the idea is neat and it is great that they threw it in with the game but I would not go out and buy one separately. Playing with the wheel is just too cumbersome and doesn't in my opinion really add anything to the game play. Overall I highly recommend Mario Kart, you will have a blast playing it. I also highly recommend you rubbing it in your friends faces when you pass them on your way to the finish line.