I gather you don't know much about Mario Kart 7, because you are now reading this paragraph. Well, here's the idea: the player takes to the race track as one of the many familiar (or unfamiliar) characters from the Mario universe on a kart (hence the title of the game). These aren't ordinary race tracks, however. Based upon locales from the Mario universe, they vary in zaniness about as much as the colorful cast does. With the madness of item use added to the mix, any Mario Kart experience is destined to be quite a fun time.
So what does Mario Kart 7 add to the tried-and-true formula? I'll give you the list from least to greatest: first, there are propellers that allow the karts to take the race underwater. It's a great feeling, but doesn't add a whole ton gameplay-wise. Second, gliders that allow certain periods of flight within races are activated at every blue jump pad. This adds a little bit of strategy and fun. Finally, MK 7 introduces a few online features that are new to the series. These are what I really want to emphasize. You've got your basic online races with players from around the globe. You've got the usual friend-to-friend mode. Then you've got the online communities. Setting up community nights with friends is a snap. Even more fun is the potential for joining racers from larger interest groups like blogs. You may already know that I'm talking specifically about the Infendo Mario Kart 7 community. This makes for virtually endless replay value.
But none of this would matter if Mario Kart 7 didn't play well. And, if you ask me, it plays better than any other racing game or even Mario Kart game out there. Infuriating blue shell encounters aside, this game nails gameplay and control. I simply can't get enough of it. Get a Nintendo 3DS, get connected to the internet, and get this game. 'Nuff said.
People keep beating me to Mario Kart 7 reviews. Parko, Chalgyr and now you. Also, people keep beating me IN Mario Kart 7. That Infendo community you got is tough!
ReplyDeleteProbably that Mario hat, though.....
It MUST be that hat! Good thought! Thanks for sending such good karma!
DeleteLOL - Yeah, this game is a lot of fun. And it's appeal is pretty evident in my family. My wife, who doesn't play man video games, was in bed watching TV and randomly asked me to set up the 3DS with Mario Kart so she could play for about 40 minutes. Pretty cool. :)
ReplyDeleteGreat review! I love this game!!! But I'm having trouble beating 150cc races.. Maybe I'll write about it :) haha
ReplyDeleteIt's all a matter of learning the skills AND learning how to effectively use all of them. Start with the speedy boost at the beginning of the race (during the countdown, push and hold the gas button starting at number 2). Performing tricks off of jumps is useful (push the R button right at the top of a jump; the timing will become natural after a while). And drifting is the REAL secret! Master drifting and you'll master the race. Well, it's my greatest strength, anyway.
DeleteBut I did read your post on rage quitting...I have to say, I'm much the same way, and I'm convinced that the game will TURN AGAINST you once in a while! It's infuriating! Someday I hope to see the removal of the spiny shell in a Mario Kart game!