Mario Kart Wii Underhyped?

[Juskin]

Why is no one hyping this game? It find it a bit odd, it seems as though it's even more promising than the DS version, which really reminded us about what Mario Kart really is about.

Now it's got better online than Brawl, no snaking, unique control schemes, cool tricks system, balanced cars, creative tracks, and oh did I mention it's Mario Kart and it's coming out this month already?

So, why no hype?

[boatofcar]

I lost interest as soon as I heard it would have shells. Seriously Nintendo, you need to rethink your powerups.

[Juskin]

I lost interest as soon as I heard it would have shells. Seriously Nintendo, you need to rethink your powerups.

Uh whuh?

[boatofcar]

Exactly what is making this game different than, I don't know, every other Mario Kart Game?

[Juskin]

Exactly what is making this game different than, I don't know, every other Mario Kart Game?

Uh I don't know, maybe these.

Trick system
12 players
online
big mushroom powerup
no snaking
motion controls
bikes as vehicles

...just to name a few. Honestly I don't know what some of you expect from Mario Kart. I'm not saying it's not different because it definitely is, but honestly it's like some people won't be satisfied until it's well, not a Mario Kart game.

I for one want Mario Kart, an improved one that is and MKWii may deliver.

[boatofcar]

Trick system
12 players
online
big mushroom powerup
no snaking
motion controls
bikes as vehicles


Maybe the fact that they took out something that never should have been in the game in the first place (snaking), but do you really want another powerup that makes the game horribly unbalanced? There's already the blue shell, lightning bolt, etc, that takes all skill out of the game and leaves the winner a product of random items....Sorry, until I hear some glowing reviews, I'll pass.

[Juskin]

Maybe the fact that they took out something that never should have been in the game in the first place (snaking), but do you really want another powerup that makes the game horribly unbalanced? There's already the blue shell, lightning bolt, etc, that takes all skill out of the game and leaves the winner a product of random items....Sorry, until I hear some glowing reviews, I'll pass.

First off snaking should have been removed. It's a skill, but it's way too annoying to be worth it, and i don't know about you, but I play games for fun. I have some friends that are great at it, but once they became skilled at it they felt it to be a bit of a chore as I did. I hear the new time based boosts more than make up for the powerboosting of yesterday that enabled snaking.

A new item I don't think will make the game unbalanced, what will make the game unbalanced are the increased odds of being able to get a good powerup. So basically I agree with you, items may pose a problem to balance and with 12 players it could get crazy.

With all that said, I still have high hopes for this game.

Eurogamer gave it a good review btw. They're pretty reliable I'd say.

[MrRoboto19XX]

I think Mario Kart Wii seems underhyped because the Wii doesn't seem to need any marketing, the continued word of mouth demand for the system pretty much guarentees a sale.

"Alright, congratulations, you found a Wii! the new Mario Kart just came out, can I interest you in a copy?"

Copy practically sold, with the hardcore fans buying them as well.

[Juskin]

I think Mario Kart Wii seems underhyped because the Wii doesn't seem to need any marketing, the continued word of mouth demand for the system pretty much guarentees a sale.

"Alright, congratulations, you found a Wii! the new Mario Kart just came out, can I interest you in a copy?"

Copy practically sold, with the hardcore fans buying them as well.

Yeah, that's definitely part of it. Also the fact that while it looks great, it still doesn't look amazing graphically for a game this generation in the way that Galaxy did.

I'm hoping Nintendo is saving their advertising for the days that lead to the release. People can't just forget about MK!

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

"Underhyped"?

It seems to be the only think Nintendo has been advertising post-SSBB's launch.

While I wouldn't call it "overhyped" I'd feel comfortable calling it "normal-hyped".

[Juskin]

"Underhyped"?

It seems to be the only think Nintendo has been advertising post-SSBB's launch.

While I wouldn't call it "overhyped" I'd feel comfortable calling it "normal-hyped".

Well the reason I say underhyped is because of the wide appeal the series has. It's just one of those games that can bring the casuals, nongamers, and hardcore gamers in the same room.

[boatofcar]

It's pretty much a given that if you own a Nintendo console you're going to buy 3 games-the Mario game, the Zelda game, and the Mario Kart. Maybe we can say 4 now with Smash Bros, but I'm not sure.

[Borman]

I think they are releasing it too soon after Super Smash really. They better have some killer titles lined up for fall

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

It's also kind of counter-productive to hype the crap out of great titles when consumers, you know, CAN'T GO TO THE FRIGGIN' STORE AND PURCHASE THE SYSTEM TO PLAY THEM ON!

I'm sure the ratio of Wii software in the wild to actual Wii systems produced/installed is something like 100 to 1.

[SkiDragon]

For me, it is too soon after Brawl, and I dislike that they are forcing a rediculous plastic wheel thing upon us. I

[Icarus Moonsight]

To be fair, I'm sure the game would retail at $50 even without the wheel.

It's like the old story... A family puts their old refrigerator (that worked fine, was still aesthetically pleasing and didn't reek inside) on the street side with a sign that read "Free - Must carry away." No one wanted it. It sat there for the whole week. Dad, epiphany stricken, replaces the sign with a new one that read "For Sale - $50". That very night, someone stole the refrigerator. ;)

In short, quit bitching and just take the damn refrigerator... um, I mean wheel. :p

Also, folks bitched about the Gamecube release droughts and now bitch about big series being released too close together on the Wii... Goldilocks syndrome, if you ask me.

As far as Nintendo being understated with Mario Karts release - I think they are storing/gearing up the hype machine for Wii Fit.

[Mianrtcv]

http://www.mariokart.com/wii/

May 17, 18 Atalantic City Outlets (New Jersey) 10 am - 6 pm
Mario Kart wii Driving School Tour

[geneshifter]

I was very hyped for this game...until trying to play multiplayer with Brawl :( No way I'm buying this game now.

[roushimsx]

Does it still have the blue shells? Does the AI still suck something fierce? Is the online component as completely fucked up and flawed as Brawl?

Because if so, the game can go fuck itself off a large cliff. I'm done with the series.


Uh I don't know, maybe these.
online
big mushroom powerup
motion controls


I fail to see how these three bullet points make the game worth looking forward to. Nintendo hasn't got a clue how to build an online game apparently, the game doesn't need a big mushroom powerup as much as it needs to be overhauled and rebalanced from the ground up with decent AI, and motion controls for racing games have thus far proven to be grossly inferior to traditional control schemes (like an actual, non-free floating wheel).

[Hwj_Chim]

Why is no one hyping this game? It find it a bit odd, it seems as though it's even more promising than the DS version, which really reminded us about what Mario Kart really is about.

Now it's got better online than Brawl, no snaking, unique control schemes, cool tricks system, balanced cars, creative tracks, and oh did I mention it's Mario Kart and it's coming out this month already?

So, why no hype?

Have you ever thought no one cares anymore. I can tell you that I lost interest in the game back on the N64 over 10 years ago. This game series needs to be revamped badly.

[heybtbm]

I think most gamer's attention has been diverted to another franchise (http://www.rockstargames.com/IV/)releasing two days later. I know mine has. Realistically though, I just don't see much of a difference between MK-DD and this new Wii version. I realize you could make a list of specific differences, but those are all minor tweeks and improvements IMO. It's still the same core gameplay mechanic, not to mention the graphics are almost identical.

Regardless, I'll still probably buy this game eventually. Mario Kart is one of the few console games my wife actually has an interest in sitting down and playing. The splitscreen races have always been a lot of fun. Also, Nintendo gets another gold star for adding multi-controller functionality (i.e. GC/Wavebird controllers). Simply put, I wouldn't have bought this if I was forced to use the ridiculous Wii-mote or wheel accessory.

[NE146]

Whatever the case is.. I only have control over my own buying habits. (and I barely buy Wii games).

However I will be there that first week sometime to pick up my copy of Mari Kart with plastic wheel :)

[ms89]

I think most gamer's attention has been diverted to another franchise releasing two days later. I know mine has. Realistically though, I just don't see much of a difference between MK-DD and this new Wii version. I realize you could make a list of specific differences, but those are all minor tweeks and improvements IMO. It's still the same core gameplay mechanic, not to mention the graphics are almost identical.

I agree with this bloke right here. The Mario Kart series just doesn't offer enough game for my buck these days. Certainly not enough to choose it over GTAIV.

[blissfulnoise]

I agree with this bloke right here. The Mario Kart series just doesn't offer enough game for my buck these days. Certainly not enough to choose it over GTAIV.

Truth.

After Mario Kart Double-Dash and Mario Kart DS, for my dollar, I'm completely done with the series.

[mailman187666]

I think a lot of it has to do with how much they hyped Brawl before its release and I think they probably want people to continue to keep buying that game rather than make people lose the attention that game still has. Instead they'd rather give it as much hype as any other regular nintendo release and it should sell itself. I will buy Mario Kart because its a fun game still and some of my friends aren't into a game like Brawl as much as they are MK. I know some of my female friends to even really wanna touch Brawl and would go right for MK any day.

[Juskin]

I was very hyped for this game...until trying to play multiplayer with Brawl :( No way I'm buying this game now.

Huh...it's not exactly being made by the same team, y'know.

MK Wii is supposed to have an online that kills Smash from what I've read. In fact it has its own channel dedicated to MK online, you'll be able to see who's playing without inserting the disk via the channel.

Damn, I'm seriously the only one supporting this game? :eek 2:

[diskoboy]

To the OP.... Check around for my feelings on the Nintendo "Kart" series.

We'll see a new one in 4 months, anyway.

I could care less about the series, in general. Nintendo has run it into the ground.

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

Huh...it's not exactly being made by the same team, y'know.

MK Wii is supposed to have an online that kills Smash from what I've read. In fact it has its own channel dedicated to MK online, you'll be able to see who's playing without inserting the disk via the channel.

Damn, I'm seriously the only one supporting this game? :eek 2:

Um, do you honestly think that you're alone in your enthusiasm and support of a Mario Kart title?

Yes, some of us are a bit jaded when it comes to the entirety of the series ... but come on, it's a Nintendo 1st party title, it has MARIO in it's title, and it's something new for the Wii that's not shovel-ware garbage.

It's going to sell millions even without a bigger marketing push that it already has.

I wouldn't worry about "nobody supporting it". It's got plenty of support built in ... BUT it IS entry number SIX in a non-story-based game series that hasn't exactly "evolved" much over the years.

If anything I think your expectations of consumer enthusiasm for this title may just be a few clicks too high.

[Juskin]

To the OP.... Check around for my feelings on the Nintendo "Kart" series.

We'll see a new one in 4 months, anyway.

I could care less about the series, in general. Nintendo has run it into the ground.

I just think people are really fed up with Double Dash.

I'm an MK fan, and I will admit Double Dash was just double dull. As for MKDS, I liked the game to a degree, but snaking being so accessible ruined the experience a bit.

This game seems to have the superior racing feel of MKDS, without the annoying snaking. And not to mention tracks that actually improve a lot on MKDS's.

This game seems to be the the first mario kart to really fix everything wrong in the series, and that's really why I don't see why it's getting crapped on.

[williewonka2k1]

Simple. Gamers are still BUSTING THE SAME NUT from when Brawl came out. True story.

[kainemaxwell]

Why is no one hyping this game? It find it a bit odd, it seems as though it's even more promising than the DS version, which really reminded us about what Mario Kart really is about.

Now it's got better online than Brawl, no snaking, unique control schemes, cool tricks system, balanced cars, creative tracks, and oh did I mention it's Mario Kart and it's coming out this month already?

So, why no hype?

I think the Mario Kart Wii tour to promote the game and steering wheel will say otherwise.

[jajaja]

I've seen a commercial on TV for Mario Kart Wii here in Europe (i think the game is officially out today (11th April) here in Europe. I dont watch that much TV so i dont know how much this commecrial is aired though. But i do agree that i havnt seen too much hype for this game, atleast not on the forums that i'm on.

EDIT: I found the commercial on Youtube if anyone wants to see:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iwvutlPjmRQ (i dont think the "N-Club" logo was in the begining of the commercial though).

Alittle off-topic: i was at my parents' house when i saw the commercial and my mom said Mario Kart Wii looked like fun :) My sister has a Wii and i have a feeling that she will buy Mario Kart Wii, so i guess i will try it at her place some day :)

[boatofcar]

Bottom line is, everyone who has a Wii who isn't burned out on the MK franchise will get the game. No one has to worry about it being a flop, that's for sure.

[Richter Belmount]

Damn, I'm seriously the only one supporting this game? :eek 2:

Yes you are

[RadiantSvgun]

I think Mario Kart Wii seems underhyped because the Wii doesn't seem to need any marketing, the continued word of mouth demand for the system pretty much guarentees a sale.

"Alright, congratulations, you found a Wii! the new Mario Kart just came out, can I interest you in a copy?"

Copy practically sold, with the hardcore fans buying them as well.

Yeah, I agree.

[TonyTheTiger]

The problem with the Mario Kart series is that it peaked at Mario Kart 64 and ever since Super Circuit proved to be rather lame Nintendo's been making incremental improvements to bring it back to the level of Mario Kart 64. Problem is, how many times can you say "close but not quite" before it gets old? The only thing that's been better than 64 is the frame rate.

Double Dash was better than Super Circuit but still worse than 64.
DS was better than Double Dash but still worse than 64.
Wii will be better than DS but are we going to play it and just like the others think "Yeah, let's play 64 again"?

And Mario Kart 64 wasn't even this perfect game that can't be touched. It had quite a few problems.

[Rob2600]

until I hear some glowing reviews, I'll pass.

So far, Mario Kart Wii is receiving great reviews. Check them out:

Metacritic.com - Mario Kart Wii reviews (http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/wii/mariokartwii)



It's still the same core gameplay mechanic, not to mention the graphics are almost identical.

You're describing the Grand Theft Auto series, right?

[Juskin]

So far, Mario Kart Wii is receiving great reviews. Check them out:

Metacritic.com - Mario Kart Wii reviews (http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/wii/mariokartwii)




You're describing the Grand Theft Auto series, right?

Just read IGN UK's reviews, so far it's been getting rave reviews at the review sites I trust. Sure EDGE gave it a 6, but does anyone care what they think? There's no doubt in my mind that this game will be awesome.

It's been a bumpy road for MK, albeit a fun one, but I think Nintendo finally struck gold with this one. It could have been perfect though, if they didn't screw up battle mode.

[Roufuss]

The only reason I'm getting is because its the only game my fiancee will play.

If she didn't care, I'd probably pass.

Yea, Brawl online and MK online are two seperate teams, but every Nintendo title to date that I can think of had shitty onlien when it's first released, because Nintendo can't handle the enormous strain of everyone in the US trying to connect at the same time. It happened to Strikers, but not as bad as it happened to Brawl, and I predict for the first week MK Online will be unplayable.

I'm not too excited about Mario Kart, it just seems like the same old, same old but with now with new motorcycles, which just seems kind of silly and unneeded for a game about karts.

To me, Mario Kart still feels like that same game way back on the SNES, just with more characters, items, and levels.. but Nintendo will NEVER change the formula or revamp it, simply because it sells like hotcakes. Even Zelda and Smash Bros this gen offered something new which changed the core dynamic of the game.. I don't think motorcycles are going to change MK that much.

I have to lol at "Nintendo finally striking gold with this one"... they could just have the game be Mario and Luigi and two tracks and it would still be a million seller.

[Juskin]

The only reason I'm getting is because its the only game my fiancee will play.

If she didn't care, I'd probably pass.

Yea, Brawl online and MK online are two seperate teams, but every Nintendo title to date that I can think of had shitty onlien when it's first released, because Nintendo can't handle the enormous strain of everyone in the US trying to connect at the same time. It happened to Strikers, but not as bad as it happened to Brawl, and I predict for the first week MK Online will be unplayable.

I'm not too excited about Mario Kart, it just seems like the same old, same old but with now with new motorcycles, which just seems kind of silly and unneeded for a game about karts.

To me, Mario Kart still feels like that same game way back on the SNES, just with more characters, items, and levels.. but Nintendo will NEVER change the formula or revamp it, simply because it sells like hotcakes. Even Zelda and Smash Bros this gen offered something new which changed the core dynamic of the game.. I don't think motorcycles are going to change MK that much.

I have to lol at "Nintendo finally striking gold with this one"... they could just have the game be Mario and Luigi and two tracks and it would still be a million seller.

Well, all I can say to you is simply give the game an honest chance like I will. Once you've done that, I'd really enjoy hearing what you have to say about this game.

[Roufuss]

Well, all I can say to you is simply give the game an honest chance like I will. Once you've done that, I'd really enjoy hearing what you have to say about this game.

Oh, I mean, I will probably enjoy it, I'll bitch that Nintendo is uncreative, but their games are still fun.

If it wasn't for the fiancee, would I get this on the day it came out? Not a chance, espicially since Persona 3 FES is a few days before it, and GTA 4 is a few days after.

I am disappointed with the character roster, as usual... Nintendo seems to recycle out of the same pool of characters over and over and over for these games. Do we really need a baby version of every character? Do we really Nintendo?

I wish they would just make "Nintendo Kart" and drop the Mario surname... would at least make the series somewhat fresh, imo.

[Juskin]

Oh, I mean, I will probably enjoy it, I'll bitch that Nintendo is uncreative, but their games are still fun.

If it wasn't for the fiancee, would I get this on the day it came out? Not a chance, espicially since Persona 3 FES is a few days before it, and GTA 4 is a few days after.

I am disappointed with the character roster, as usual... Nintendo seems to recycle out of the same pool of characters over and over and over for these games. Do we really need a baby version of every character? Do we really Nintendo?

I wish they would just make "Nintendo Kart" and drop the Mario surname... would at least make the series somewhat fresh, imo.

Those are very trivial things you're complaining about though. Frankly, I could really care less about character rosters as long as the vehicles control well, the items offer the crazy gameplay we've come to expect, and the tracks are creative as they should be.

Let's look more into the interior, rather than exterior for a second.

[Lothars]

I just think people are really fed up with Double Dash.

I'm an MK fan, and I will admit Double Dash was just double dull. As for MKDS, I liked the game to a degree, but snaking being so accessible ruined the experience a bit.

This game seems to have the superior racing feel of MKDS, without the annoying snaking. And not to mention tracks that actually improve a lot on MKDS's.

This game seems to be the the first mario kart to really fix everything wrong in the series, and that's really why I don't see why it's getting crapped on.

Well This Game looks really mediocre but I will probably eventually buy it though it's not a day one purchase that brawl was and Honestly I think that Double Dash was easily the best Mario Kart since Super Mario Kart on the SNES and Mario Kart Wii doesn't look near as good as Double Dash was.

MKDS was also pretty good but I don't know don't have much faith for this game or the Wii after Brawl.

[joshnickerson]

I think MKWii looks fantastic. I keep wanting to punch these idiots who keep whining that the graphics are bad. Oh, so f*****g sorry that every hair on Donkey Kong's ass isn't fully rendered with bump-mapping and bloom lighting. /end rant

I won't be buying it on launch day though... I can only really afford one new game a month, and I already have my eyes set on Okami. Rest assured that I'll be power-sliding with motion controls soon enough.

[MeTmKnice]

The original Mario Kart is still my fave of all time, even now I play it at least twice a month or so, before I moved back down to CAli, me and a good friend would play it almost every night. What I think should have been done, and talking to quite a few others that agree.. is that they should have redone the original or mk64 and made it online multi player.

[Rob2600]

I'm not too excited about Mario Kart, it just seems like the same old, same old but with now with new motorcycles ... To me, Mario Kart still feels like that same game way back on the SNES, just with more characters, items, and levels.. but Nintendo will NEVER change the formula or revamp it, simply because it sells like hotcakes.

Doesn't this also apply to the Metal Gear series, Tomb Raider series, Rainbow Six series, Call of Duty series, Guitar Hero series, Grand Theft Auto series, and almost every other video game series in existence? Each sequel features relatively minor enhancements, building on its established core gameplay.

[Roufuss]

Doesn't this also apply to the Metal Gear series, Tomb Raider series, Rainbow Six series, Call of Duty series, Guitar Hero series, Grand Theft Auto series, and almost every other video game series in existence? Each sequel features relatively minor enhancements, building on its established core gameplay.

While I haven't played Metal Gear extensively enough to really say, Rainbow Six has undergone a number of changes, most notably to Vegas which is different than how the series has ever been, in terms of gameplay. Guitar Hero is more of the same, yes, and reviewers took notice of that as well (but they never do on a Nintendo title, no).

Grand Theft Auto changed itself a lot in the move from 2D to 3D, and it looks like GTA 4 is going to be ANOTHER big change for the series, but we can't say for certain until it's out. Call of Duty 4 offered some more relatively big improvements, namely in multiplayer, and Tomb Raider, well, Legend is much different than anything before it, because it's actually good ;)

What you'll notice is that in every series you listed (except for GH 3), at one time, there HAS been a huge gameplay element that has been retooled that provided a fresh experience to the series in question. Mario Kart has always been Mario Kart, and while I still think it's fun, the formula is getting a bit stale imo, and I don't think it's something motorcycles or a new trick system is going to fix.

I mean, turning into a wolf in Twilight Princess? That was a pretty big shake up for Link. Smash Balls in SSBB? That changed how the game is played big time, at least in the matches I've played. Mario Galaxy gets a pass simply because we see a new 3D Mario game once per system lately, and Sunshine was a departure, so it's good to see something old again.

I don't know... like I said, I'm still buying it, I'll still have fun with it, but part of me wants Nintendo to really try something new, I liked Double Dash because it wasn't afraid to do it's own thing, whether it worked right or not, well, that's personal opinion. But double carts, character specific items? I'm just saddened they took the character specific items back out of MK Wii, since, imo, it provided some uniqueness to the characters.

I guess it's also because I think the motorcycles will just be a lame gimmick and halfassed rather than something really fun, but I hope to be proven wrong. I guess the point of those posts is that each series has shaken up it's core gameplay at least once and stuck with it, I guess you can say Mario Kart DD shook it up but Nintendo abandoned it to go back to what works. I think they should have at least kept the character specific items.

To tie it into the OP, maybe it's underhyped because people are oversaturated on Mario Kart? It seems to have a new iteration every 2 years or so.

[Mobius]

What a bunch of whiners in this thread.

[TurboGenesis]

What a bunch of whiners in this thread.

co-sign…

[Rob2600]

Rainbow Six has undergone a number of changes, most notably to Vegas which is different than how the series has ever been, in terms of gameplay.

How so? Unless I'm not controlling a soldier who must sneak around and shoot enemies, the core gameplay has remained the same since its debut in 1998. That's not necessarily a bad thing. In this case, it seems as though the formula works, so why drastically alter it like you're proposing Nintendo do with Mario Kart?


Guitar Hero is more of the same, yes, and reviewers took notice of that as well (but they never do on a Nintendo title, no).

Reviewers never notice "more of the same" with Nintendo titles? They seem to have noticed with the Mario Party series. Each new version has received lower scores than the previous one.


Grand Theft Auto changed itself a lot in the move from 2D to 3D, and it looks like GTA 4 is going to be ANOTHER big change for the series ... Call of Duty 4 offered some more relatively big improvements ... Tomb Raider, well, Legend is much different than anything before it, because it's actually good ;)

I mean, turning into a wolf in Twilight Princess? That was a pretty big shake up for Link.

"Big shake ups" occur once in a while (Super Mario 64, Grand Theft Auto III, Metroid Prime, etc.), but usually sequels feature minor enhancements and retain the same core gameplay. It makes sense for developers to reuse and tweak game engines than to create new ones from scratch for every sequel.

Being able to climb ropes in the new Tomb Raider game or being able to use different guns in the new Call of Duty game aren't "big shake ups." They are minor enhancements. Likewise, being able to play as a wolf in Twilight Princess was a minor enhancement. The core gameplay in Twilignt Princess remained the same as Ocarina of Time, Majora's Mask, and Wind Waker. Again, that's not necessarily a bad thing.

Another example: Perfect Dark for the Nintendo 64 was awesome, but it wasn't a "big shake up" from Goldeneye 007. Yes, it featured several enhancements, like the FarSight, the CamSpy, night vision, and souped-up multiplayer modes, but the core gameplay was the same.

To me, a "big shake up" would be turning The Legend of Zelda into a first-person shooter or a real-time strategy game. The core gameplay would be completely different than previous Legend of Zelda games.

You're right that the Grand Theft Auto series had undergone a huge change from part two to part three, but in subsequent sequels, the core gameplay has been the same overall. The Metroid series had also undergone a huge change with Prime, but again, in subsequent sequels, the core gameplay has been the same overall.


Mario Kart has always been Mario Kart, and while I still think it's fun, the formula is getting a bit stale imo

What type of "big shake up" do you want for the next Mario Kart game? Should Nintendo turn it into a fishing game next time? How about a cooking simulator? A drastic change wouldn't make sense. The series is all about simple, fun, multiplayer racing and it'd be weird for Nintendo to radically alter the sequel.


part of me wants Nintendo to really try something new ... I think the motorcycles will just be a lame gimmick and halfassed rather than something really fun

If Mario Kart Wii were a mediocre, half-hearted cash-in, would it be receiving 8s and 9s from the vast majority of the gaming press so far? Unlike Eidos, I don't think Nintendo would pay off gaming magazines and web sites.


maybe it's underhyped because people are oversaturated on Mario Kart? It seems to have a new iteration every 2 years or so.

As do most highly-rated major video game franchises.

[Apollo]

co-sign…

Tangent.

[josekortez]

I think Mario Kart Wii seems underhyped because the Wii doesn't seem to need any marketing, the continued word of mouth demand for the system pretty much guarentees a sale.

"Alright, congratulations, you found a Wii! the new Mario Kart just came out, can I interest you in a copy?"

Copy practically sold, with the hardcore fans buying them as well.

MrRoboto is a smart man. Practically took the words right out of my mouth.

[Roufuss]

Rob2600, I totally see where you're coming from, to me even small alterations can have a big impact on a series, but I definitely see the points you made and agree for the most part. No sense in arguing the point further, for me ;)

[Rob2600]

Sorry, double post. See below.

[Rob2600]

Rob2600, I totally see where you're coming from, to me even small alterations can have a big impact on a series, but I definitely see the points you made and agree for the most part.

Thanks. :)

EDIT: I guess to long-time fans of a series, like Rainbow Six, Call of Duty, or Tomb Raider, a minor addition or enhancement might seem like a drastic change.

[mnbren05]

I'm hesitant to buy any more Mario Kart games till they drop down a bit. I was so annoyed with Double Dash. A real let down in terms of everything, the game series needs to have solid play on the console and online. (Bashes head as yet another SSBB game times out or mysteriously dc's)

[Overbite]

I havent had fun with mario kart since the first one

[Juskin]

How so? Unless I'm not controlling a soldier who must sneak around and shoot enemies, the core gameplay has remained the same since its debut in 1998. That's not necessarily a bad thing. In this case, it seems as though the formula works, so why drastically alter it like you're proposing Nintendo do with Mario Kart?

Simply put, people have unrealistic expectations for Nintendo games, whether that's from nostalgia, fanboy jealously, nintendo's new fondness of the nongamer, or whatever.

That's partly why I believe they turn out so great because Nintendo wants to meet those expectations as best they can. When the fans aren't happy with Nintendo, it's usually more of the fans fault than the game's fault in my experience.

And like you were saying it's very hypocritical to say that the Mario Kart series is rehashed, and then go back to playing your Soul Calibur or Metal Gear Solid, or almost every highly rated game with a sequel.

Each Mario Kart to me has a unique feel, and provides a beneficial improvement to the series in some way just like any other series. These people act as if they wouldn't like Mario Kart until it was a completely different game called Mario Kart, or perfected by the gods themselves!

[Mayhem]

Most people I know with the game (here in the UK, woo) are loving online at the moment... they've even taken to going online with their 360 in some random game lobby to chat while playing the blooming game with friends LOL

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

Simply put, people have unrealistic expectations for Nintendo games, whether that's from nostalgia, fanboy jealously, nintendo's new fondness of the nongamer, or whatever.

That's partly why I believe they turn out so great because Nintendo wants to meet those expectations as best they can. When the fans aren't happy with Nintendo, it's usually more of the fans fault than the game's fault in my experience.

And like you were saying it's very hypocritical to say that the Mario Kart series is rehashed, and then go back to playing your Soul Calibur or Metal Gear Solid, or almost every highly rated game with a sequel.

Each Mario Kart to me has a unique feel, and provides a beneficial improvement to the series in some way just like any other series. These people act as if they wouldn't like Mario Kart until it was a completely different game called Mario Kart, or perfected by the gods themselves!

Let me get this straight, according to you, when the FANS aren't happy with the quality (be it actual or perceived) of a Nintendo 1st party title ... it's the FANS' FAULT(S)?

For instance, if this installment of Mario Kart is under-hyped (which I don't believe it is), or eventually (potentially) poorly critically received by the gaming press or the gaming public ... it will likely be the fault of the FANS?

I'm not even sure where to begin dissecting your assessment, so I'll give you an opportunity to fully explain yourself or revise that statement before I begin doing so.

[Juskin]

Let me get this straight, according to you, when the FANS aren't happy with the quality (be it actual or perceived) of a Nintendo 1st party title ... it's the FANS' FAULT(S)?

For instance, if this installment of Mario Kart is under-hyped (which I don't believe it is), or eventually (potentially) poorly critically received by the gaming press or the gaming public ... it will likely be the fault of the FANS?

I'm not even sure where to begin dissecting your assessment, so I'll give you an opportunity to fully explain yourself or revise that statement before I begin doing so.

I never said it's always the case, but I believe nostalgia often clouds our enjoyment of games. No matter how great a game is, obviously they probably won't amount to our memories of the game's predecessors.

It seems this happens with Nintendo games more than other games because most of us in some way or another grew up on Nintendo games.

I'm not saying that if MKWii gets poor reviews, it's the fault of the critics. Usually there's truth in the reviews, but fans as a whole are usually a mixed bag with unrealistic expectations.

I know it's a broad statement, but it definitely holds some truth too.

[boatofcar]

People will respect you more if you take the spam out of your signature.


As for me, I'm not buying a new Mario Kart game until they actually make the following available in the game, including but not limited to:

*The option to turn off blue shells

*The option to make powerups truly random and not dependent on what place you're currently in in the race

*The option to take the retarded character voices out

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

I never said it's always the case, but I believe nostalgia often clouds our enjoyment of games. No matter how great a game is, obviously they probably won't amount to our memories of the game's predecessors.

It seems this happens with Nintendo games more than other games because most of us in some way or another grew up on Nintendo games.

I'm not saying that if MKWii gets poor reviews, it's the fault of the critics. Usually there's truth in the reviews, but fans as a whole are usually a mixed bag with unrealistic expectations.

I know it's a broad statement, but it definitely holds some truth too.

Okay, you've said enough that I'd consider "fair", but man that WAS a pretty sweeping statement ...

You're correct that nostalgia (and I'll add TIME PASSED to that) often clouds our minds when it comes to beloved game franchises...

...however, please take into consideration that in your view of "some" gamers who have "unrealistic" expectations you might want to take a moment to question your own "expectations" over the hype-level of this product, and the disappointment you seem to be experiencing/expressing over it.

I STILL see no reason to consider MKWii an "under-hyped" product, and you seem to be projecting your frustration on everybody who doesn't consider it to be the latest, greatest thing for the Wii. (Which it most assuredly is by default of being both a 1st party Nintendo title, a Mario title, and a Mario KART title.)

Now, I could be wrong, but I think that MKWii is "adequately" hyped, "adequately" expected to perform at retail, and "adequately" accepted as the next entry in a franchise that has always delivered great (if not predictable and/or formulaic) results for Nintendo and fans of the series.

And, again, this is #6 in the series. People know what to expect ... and while some of us (myself included) are looking forward to the innovations included in this entry - others have their issues with the series to date, and NO amount of "hype" is going to turn them around anyway.

It's only another week or so ... you currently think it's under-hyped, why not just let it the game hit and see where the POST-LAUNCH hype takes it?

[Juskin]

Okay, you've said enough that I'd consider "fair", but man that WAS a pretty sweeping statement ...

You're correct that nostalgia (and I'll add TIME PASSED to that) often clouds our minds when it comes to beloved game franchises...

...however, please take into consideration that in your view of "some" gamers who have "unrealistic" expectations you might want to take a moment to question your own "expectations" over the hype-level of this product, and the disappointment you seem to be experiencing/expressing over it.

I STILL see no reason to consider MKWii an "under-hyped" product, and you seem to be projecting your frustration on everybody who doesn't consider it to be the latest, greatest thing for the Wii. (Which it most assuredly is by default of being both a 1st party Nintendo title, a Mario title, and a Mario KART title.)

Now, I could be wrong, but I think that MKWii is "adequately" hyped, "adequately" expected to perform at retail, and "adequately" accepted as the next entry in a franchise that has always delivered great (if not predictable and/or formulaic) results for Nintendo and fans of the series.

And, again, this is #6 in the series. People know what to expect ... and while some of us (myself included) are looking forward to the innovations included in this entry - others have their issues with the series to date, and NO amount of "hype" is going to turn them around anyway.

It's only another week or so ... you currently think it's under-hyped, why not just let it the game hit and see where the POST-LAUNCH hype takes it?

I'm sure it will do more than well sales wise and all that good stuff, don't get me wrong. What I maybe should have clarified better is that I believe hardcore gamers, such as the people that post here, aren't taking the game seriously enough.

I really don't think most people know what to expect as you say, for the most part the general consensus is that this is just another flawed Mario Kart. From my research, it seems this is more than just another flawed Mario Kart, so with this thread I hoped to spark some much deserved interest in the game finally.

[PentiumMMX]

Though Mario Kart Wii seems great and could be even better than Mario Kart DS, I really think they will never, ever top Diddy Kong Racing 64 (DKR was epic. It had kick-ass multiplayer, awesome tracks, great characters, good physics, and a freaking Adventure Mode). Hopefully Mario Kart Wii will be better than DoubleDash, like how Super Mario Galaxy is better than Super Mario Sunshine...

[Rob2600]

they will never, ever top Diddy Kong Racing

I prefer the Mario Kart series.

Diddy Kong Racing is a polished, well produced game and a good example of the Nintendo 64's graphical and audio capabilities. It's also a much deeper racing game than the Mario Kart series, but that's what I don't like about it.

With one of the Mario Kart games, I can turn it on, participate in a few races, and turn it off. There's no adventure mode, boss battles, hidden keys, or silver coin challenges to get in the way. Some people prefer that level of depth though.

[Leo_A]

There's plenty about this game that justifys many fans not going nuts about it. There are many concerns and issues among fans of the series that have toned down everyones excitement, from the small number of online players to no multiplayer grand prix mode to no free for all battle mode. That's just to name a few of the biggest issues, but I could go on with it...

I don't understand why your so sure its going to be the best entry in the series to date. It very well may be, but there actually are concerns about many things among the fanbase of the series and most are waiting until they actually play it to pass judgement.

[Slate]

It's also kind of counter-productive to hype the crap out of great titles when consumers, you know, CAN'T GO TO THE FRIGGIN' STORE AND PURCHASE THE SYSTEM TO PLAY THEM ON!

I saw 6 Wiis the last time I was in a walmart, Last week. There weren't people lining up to buy them either.

[Frankie_Says_Relax]

I saw 6 Wiis the last time I was in a walmart, Last week. There weren't people lining up to buy them either.

We may be on the cusp of Nintendo actually getting some units out to the public ... I also saw units at Best Buy this weekend (and one new one in the DP Store today!)

[Juskin]

There's plenty about this game that justifys many fans not going nuts about it. There are many concerns and issues among fans of the series that have toned down everyones excitement, from the small number of online players to no multiplayer grand prix mode to no free for all battle mode. That's just to name a few of the biggest issues, but I could go on with it...

I don't understand why your so sure its going to be the best entry in the series to date. It very well may be, but there actually are concerns about many things among the fanbase of the series and most are waiting until they actually play it to pass judgement.

What do you mean small number of online players? At most message boards I've been to, people have no problem getting up to 12 players online within 10 seconds. Free for all battle, ya that's a valid complaint, but it doesn't ruin the main appeal of the game, the racing. And multiplayer grand prix is a bit lame, but it's not that much of a loss.

As for why I'm so positive, that's due to all of the 99% positive comments I've been hearing from mostly Europeans...whether they were avid mario fans from the n64 days, never were fans, or always stuck with the series at all times.

MKDS got a lot of positive comments, but within just the first week it was met by countless complaints of not being able to play 8 racers, not having all stages, or the most annoying of them all, snaking. Not the case here, online multiplayer seems great and magical...and stuff!

[Leo_A]

Sorry, I read it was limited to 4 players, perhaps it was a mistaken assumption by someone who happened to never get more than that number for online.

[Dastardly Dylan]

All I know is that I am hyped for this game, I mean come on! a Wii Wheel! how awesome is that!

[Juskin]

IGN Review is up!

8.5!

http://wii.ign.com/articles/868/868012p3.html

Pretty positive sounding review overall, can't wait for my copy to come in!

[geneshifter]

I take back all the things I said in this thread. I picked it up at the GS midnight launch and it is a very good game. Lag free multiplayer tonight and the game just blows double dash away. Awesome game.

P.S.: We need to have a MK Wii night for us DP peeps!

[neuropolitique]

To the OP.... Check around for my feelings on the Nintendo "Kart" series.

We'll see a new one in 4 months, anyway.

I could care less about the series, in general. Nintendo has run it into the ground.

You, sir, are a moron. You've brought up this before. Each time you've been shown that there is ONE Mario Kart for each system. You refuse to acknowledge that because either you have some fan boy reasons to, or your mind simply is not capable of retaining any new information. Either way, please shut up.