Mario Kart 8

 Wii U
User Score
8.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 2023 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,789 out of 2023
  2. Mixed: 86 out of 2023
  3. Negative: 148 out of 2023
Buy Now
Buy on

Review this game

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
view
per page
  1. TrueIcee
    Dec 20, 2014
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Mario Kart 8 isn't really anything new, but it still makes a fun racer for the whole family to enjoy from time to time. The tracks are really great, mainly thanks to the new Anti-Gravity gimmick that ties the whole function of Mario Kart 7 together. I think that I should mention that this game's presentation is top notch. It looks very nice, while running at 60 FPS with one or two players, online included.

    The 32 Tracks shouldn't leave you bored, especially with some really good new tracks, like the Electrodrome and Mount Wario, and even fan favorite N64 Rainbow Road makes it's return.

    That doesn't mean this game isn't without it's problems. Honestly, this game's roster is easily one of the worst of a Mario Kart game. Half of the game's 30 characters are just clones of others, and fan favorites like Diddy and Birdo are missing. Function wise, the Coin power-up can completely break the item balance, ultimately dooming the person in 1st even more so then ever, Super Horn or not. The online may not be perfect, but for the most part it runs rather well, but be prepared for some random disconnects once in a blue moon.

    Overall, Mario Kart 8 is a good racing experience for the Wii U. I highly recommend it.    … Expand
  2. skulltulainahat
    Dec 15, 2014
    10
    With fantastic music, great colorful and vibrant graphics, and a good variety of tracks (some new and some returning) there is nothing bad I can say about Mario Kart 8. The perfect kart racer and my favorite Mario Kart game thus far.
  3. GurinJaw
    Dec 13, 2014
    10
    Gotta love this game! Super fun and addicting! Playing online against people around the world on a competitive level has a great feeling into it, I also loved the Zelda DLC, Nintendo knows how to pull off DLCs the right way!
  4. midway23
    Dec 10, 2014
    9
    Even if this game doesn't differ from previous iterations in the series, it would be a shame if it did. Mario Kart 8 brings enough new things to the table while keeping the core kart racing experience better then ever. Run's beautifully, looks amazing, plays great and is an absolute joy to play with friends. Is it worth buying a Wii U for Mario Kart 8? I'd like to say yes.

    This is the    Even if this game doesn't differ from previous iterations in the series, it would be a shame if it did. Mario Kart 8 brings enough new things to the table while keeping the core kart racing experience better then ever. Run's beautifully, looks amazing, plays great and is an absolute joy to play with friends. Is it worth buying a Wii U for Mario Kart 8? I'd like to say yes.

    This is the best Mario Kart game yet.    … Expand
  5. WordofthePlay
    Dec 7, 2014
    10
    A must own game. Entirely familiar but exciting new stages and players. This game has the best offer on DLC right now. It's something youll actually get use out of.
  6. kasparius
    Dec 5, 2014
    10
    I've been waiting to write a review of the game for a while. I've had the game since day one and loved it. But for me the true test of a great Mario Kart is how long I'll be playing it. This is a game I pick up at least once a week on my own, and even more so if friends are over, or if I'm playing online with my family abroad. Simply put, it is by far the greatest Mario Kart ever made. TheI've been waiting to write a review of the game for a while. I've had the game since day one and loved it. But for me the true test of a great Mario Kart is how long I'll be playing it. This is a game I pick up at least once a week on my own, and even more so if friends are over, or if I'm playing online with my family abroad. Simply put, it is by far the greatest Mario Kart ever made. The DLC that Nintendo made for the game is an incredible value for the price, as you get 8 new tracks that are all as great as the tracks that come with the game. It is a must own for anybody who loves video games.… Expand
  7. camilosanchez16
    Dec 4, 2014
    9
    Sin duda el mejor apartado gráfico que hasta el momento Nintendo ha creado y uno de los mejores que el 2014 ha sacado a luz, junto con InFAMOUS SS, jugabilidad, excelente DLC y pistas únicas, con un contra que es el modo batalla, el cual no juzgo pues no lo juego.
  8. PyxyGames
    Nov 27, 2014
    9
    Now, this isn't the BEST game in the Mario Kart series, (my favorite was Mario Kart Double Dash) but honestly, I LOVE this game! New anti-gravity modes, Great HD graphics, A great attention to detail, and oh my god, don't even get me started on the new features! Parachutes, new car customizations and so much more! Lot's of playable characters and a nice sense of progression! 9/10 for sure!Now, this isn't the BEST game in the Mario Kart series, (my favorite was Mario Kart Double Dash) but honestly, I LOVE this game! New anti-gravity modes, Great HD graphics, A great attention to detail, and oh my god, don't even get me started on the new features! Parachutes, new car customizations and so much more! Lot's of playable characters and a nice sense of progression! 9/10 for sure! But once again, Mario Kart 8 isn't the BEST game in the Mario Kart series EVER, but it sure is close.… Expand
  9. HawkeyeWii
    Nov 26, 2014
    10
    Easily one of the best Mario Kart games and still one of the best games released from this new generation of consoles. It looks gorgeous and plays so smooth. One of hte more amazing factors is that the game continues at a 60fps pace even in two player spilt screen. Lets hope there is no end in sight for this gem of a franchise.
  10. TheGamingCrypt
    Nov 26, 2014
    10
    Absolutely brilliant! very fun to play especially with friends! off and online! amazing graphics and great Gameplay! you wont get games of this quality anywhere else other than Nintendo
  11. LuigiCuau
    Nov 24, 2014
    9
    Después de años desde el juego de Wii, llega este juego con la innovación de la gravedad, que la verdad se ve maravilloso, pistas padrisimas y un game play excelente, Mario Kart 8 es un juego que te ara pasar horas de diversión, sin embargo no logra el 10 por las siguientes razones:

    1 No hay escenarios para batalla de balones, jugar en las pistas no son divertidas 2 Senda arcoiris muy    Después de años desde el juego de Wii, llega este juego con la innovación de la gravedad, que la verdad se ve maravilloso, pistas padrisimas y un game play excelente, Mario Kart 8 es un juego que te ara pasar horas de diversión, sin embargo no logra el 10 por las siguientes razones:

    1 No hay escenarios para batalla de balones, jugar en las pistas no son divertidas
    2 Senda arcoiris muy pobre, se supone que debe ser la pista más difícil y más larga y es lo contrario muy corta y muy fácil
    3 personajes que no convencen, metal peach, baby rosalinda ¿quieren más ?

    De hay en fuera el juego es exelente    … Expand
  12. Detrucci
    Nov 22, 2014
    10
    This game is fantastic, Yes it has a couple of bad things like the new battle mode. But the replayability of this game is brilliant. I play it with my 3 children and we have great fun with races. Sometimes we change it to custom modes for added craziness like Shells only.
    The brand new DLC is fantastic. There are influence from F Zero and the Legend of Zelda. There are many characters to    This game is fantastic, Yes it has a couple of bad things like the new battle mode. But the replayability of this game is brilliant. I play it with my 3 children and we have great fun with races. Sometimes we change it to custom modes for added craziness like Shells only.
    The brand new DLC is fantastic. There are influence from F Zero and the Legend of Zelda. There are many characters to unlock, tons of stages and vehicle unlocks. The graphics are solid at 1080p 6fps    … Expand
  13. ShadowUchiha73
    Nov 20, 2014
    7
    Mario Kart 8 is a very good game, but is it really the best Mario Kart, let only best Wii U game; how about no. Mario Kart 8 has a few noticeable problems like coins being items, ruining Battle Mode, and a few problems with Mario Kart in general I always had: No Campaign, some luck involved with the items, Green shells being too slow, and the Leader Shell. Regardless, it's still a greatMario Kart 8 is a very good game, but is it really the best Mario Kart, let only best Wii U game; how about no. Mario Kart 8 has a few noticeable problems like coins being items, ruining Battle Mode, and a few problems with Mario Kart in general I always had: No Campaign, some luck involved with the items, Green shells being too slow, and the Leader Shell. Regardless, it's still a great game and I recommend it to any Mario kart fan but I still can't say I enjoyed that much.… Expand
  14. Red-Opposom-098
    Nov 20, 2014
    9
    Really fun game, the zero gravity is innovative and it's something fresh then just an average shooter (even though I enjoy playing them) I had a lot of fun playing
  15. pinball123
    Nov 18, 2014
    9
    Do you like previous versions of mario kart? If you do buy this now, if you don't don't buy this. Simple as that. As a fan of the series I loved this game.
  16. rhaynes7
    Nov 18, 2014
    9
    I haven't gotten into Mario Kart this much since the DS. This game is gorgeous, and the mechanics have improved so much since then. My only gripe is that a few of the retro stages have been changed for the worse, in particular the unnecessary addition of water sections and confounding zero gravity in some retro stages. It's also a shame that the staff ghosts on time trials areI haven't gotten into Mario Kart this much since the DS. This game is gorgeous, and the mechanics have improved so much since then. My only gripe is that a few of the retro stages have been changed for the worse, in particular the unnecessary addition of water sections and confounding zero gravity in some retro stages. It's also a shame that the staff ghosts on time trials are relatively easy to beat.

    Otherwise, this might be one of the most solid Mario Karts with excellent visuals to complement excellent track selection, and online play that is usually very capable of keeping up with the action.    … Expand
  17. theodorethebear
    Nov 17, 2014
    9
    It's fun to play with friends. The tracks are created beautifully and creatively. Although there are glitches and un- fair-played NPC, this is a masterpiece.
  18. hornwes
    Nov 16, 2014
    10
    This is by far the best game that I have played in years, it even had my roommate debating whether to buy a Wii U for the purposes of playing one game. MK 8 combines impeccable controls and amazing graphics with the usual top-notch level design you come to expect from Nintendo.
  19. rtheczar
    Nov 14, 2014
    10
    This is the best racing game I have ever played. It gets better and better the more I play. Having a blast playing the add on tracks. Stunning graphics, perfect gameplay. Huge variety of tracks and customizations.
  20. Mefiresu
    Nov 13, 2014
    5
    i'm not best fan of Mario. It's good racing. it's fun fine game levels from others games of Mario universe. But it's still not best game for Wii u system at all.
  21. micorial1
    Nov 12, 2014
    9
    This game provided countless hours of fun going through the grand prix and unlocking everything. This game is also very entertaining with many friends. the online was fun and it skill matched you with others of your caliber. The game pad was also well done being able to us it for many different things in the game gave many players different uses for it
  22. sonic4president
    Nov 11, 2014
    10
    Easily the best mario kart in the entire series, and the fact that dlc is very soon on the way makes it even better. Nintendo have once again made a fun multiplayer experience.
  23. sanluis20
    Nov 10, 2014
    9
    Mario Kart makes it long awaited appearance in HD and this game doesn't disappoint. The game is extremely fun, however for the love of God could Nintendo get rid of the blue turtle? At least, disable it on the final lap. I don't know how many games I've lost because of it. I know Nintendo does it for the kids, but I wish you could disable it, and other annoying items so it would makeMario Kart makes it long awaited appearance in HD and this game doesn't disappoint. The game is extremely fun, however for the love of God could Nintendo get rid of the blue turtle? At least, disable it on the final lap. I don't know how many games I've lost because of it. I know Nintendo does it for the kids, but I wish you could disable it, and other annoying items so it would make the game slightly more skill based. Nevertheless this is still an excellent game for the Wii U.… Expand
  24. Kahisys
    Nov 10, 2014
    10
    Nintendo kept a good path and created another Mario Kart that'd remain a must-buy for its system. It holds to the series by making a hectic racing game with gorgeous and/or fun tracks to play through. We get what we ask for : sense of mess, speed and fun.

    Enhanced with the quicker reload of the item boxes, it is easier to get items to beat others with...or to be beat with. The new    Nintendo kept a good path and created another Mario Kart that'd remain a must-buy for its system. It holds to the series by making a hectic racing game with gorgeous and/or fun tracks to play through. We get what we ask for : sense of mess, speed and fun.

    Enhanced with the quicker reload of the item boxes, it is easier to get items to beat others with...or to be beat with. The new tracks are damn fun and very well put together, and the remakes of the old ones fit well the new gimmick of this opus, which is the anti-gravity racing. Said gimmick is also worth noticing as it allows a new point of view on racing, making you bump into other racers to get a speed boost instead of avoiding them as usual.

    The online is a big part of the game, and of course it's well organized, making it easy to join whenever you wish to get some challenge from across the world, either against strangers or your friends. Sadly I can't review on the quality of the connection since mine is naturally very bad.

    Some would complain about the lack of character diversity, which I could get behind, but it's not dramatic or that much of a bother. Also, the anti-gravity isn't that much noticeable since the camera always adapts to you. Those details are just a bit of nitpicking.

    2 DLCs are planned so far, for a price that is very correct seing it adds in total 4 more cups. Nintendo seems to know how to balance their prices on DLCs.    … Expand
  25. CoreyintheHouse
    Nov 8, 2014
    0
    When I first played Mario Kart 8, I had very high expectations. However I was met with the most disgusting racing game ever to be assembled in human history. DO NOT BUY!! a waste of money. People should buy a real game, like Corey in the House for the nintendo DS
  26. dkxcalibur
    Nov 5, 2014
    10
    The best in the series for sure! One of the best games on the Wii U for sure! One of the best looking games on any system!

    The tracks are brilliantly designed and each one feels unique. The tracks are bright, colorful, and beautiful. The music that accompanies each track is perfect and you'll have them stuck in your head for days. I believe they are performed by an orchestra.    The best in the series for sure! One of the best games on the Wii U for sure! One of the best looking games on any system!

    The tracks are brilliantly designed and each one feels unique. The tracks are bright, colorful, and beautiful. The music that accompanies each track is perfect and you'll have them stuck in your head for days. I believe they are performed by an orchestra. Every character that you care about from the world of Mario are present. I could have done with less baby characters and a few more Mario enemies but they don't take away from anything. The controls are perfect. I prefer the classic style of control but the motion control is included and has been improved upon Mario Kart Wii's motion controls. The online features have also been improved and there are a lot more options when racing online then in past games from the series.

    Since release, it's been announced that DLC is on the way that will bring Link and Animal Crossing characters; and both additional track and karts to the game in the future.

    Stop questioning if the Wii U has games. Buy a Wii U and buy this game!    … Expand
  27. StrippuhGenes
    Nov 4, 2014
    10
    I was never really a fan of the Mario Kart series. I bought the Wii U for Zelda Wind Waker HD and for the future Smash Bros. I bought Mario Kart 8 because of the split screen and the hype around it. In all honesty, I was blown away by the game play. The silky smooth frame rate, the amazing graphics, and the game play caught me by surprise. I have over 40 hours racked up in the game and II was never really a fan of the Mario Kart series. I bought the Wii U for Zelda Wind Waker HD and for the future Smash Bros. I bought Mario Kart 8 because of the split screen and the hype around it. In all honesty, I was blown away by the game play. The silky smooth frame rate, the amazing graphics, and the game play caught me by surprise. I have over 40 hours racked up in the game and I will be playing a lot more and I can't wait for the release of the November DLC!… Expand
  28. ll33ee
    Nov 1, 2014
    9
    Un juego excelente.
    Tiene un gran Multiplayer, pero el modo Batalla no es tan bueno, al menos para mi, ya que usa las mismas pistas de las carreras.
    No hay que olvidar los 2 DLC, que lucen bastante bien: 4 Copas y Personajes a un buen precio ¿no creen?
  29. rushiosan
    Oct 29, 2014
    6
    A 10/10 game if you look back at what the franchise achieved since 1990's, but a 6/10 in a matter of gameplay.

    Mario Kart 8 suffers from major problems of item balancing and the gap between skill / luck that spoiled previous entries, but this time things got even worse. To put in simple words, it punishes good players. It's not a goot thing to stay in first, second or third places    A 10/10 game if you look back at what the franchise achieved since 1990's, but a 6/10 in a matter of gameplay.

    Mario Kart 8 suffers from major problems of item balancing and the gap between skill / luck that spoiled previous entries, but this time things got even worse. To put in simple words, it punishes good players. It's not a goot thing to stay in first, second or third places because your item sorting was greatly nerfed to either coins (absolutely useless) and bananas all the time. Forget green or red shells if you're 1st to 3rd place. The game is meant to punish good players even at vs CPU races, which's absolutely atrocious and frustrating. Why is there content to unlock by winning single-player cups then? This setting works perfectly for multiplayer parties because it gives everyone in the room a chance to win against a good player, but throwing that at CPU matches is absolutely non-sense.

    I put this game down after finishing all mirror cups and I rarely play now. Videogames are meant to be enjoyed, not to frustrate you. Leave the "luck" aspect to board games and stuff.    … Expand
  30. knifeandfork
    Oct 27, 2014
    9
    Before the gravity mechanic of MK8 was revealed, I expected it to be just another Mario Kart game, with few actual new ideas. But I was proven wrong. In Mario Kart 8, Nintendo has created their best Mario Kart in years. There's an abundance of ideas in this new entry, which makes it a joy to play.

    One of the most exciting things about MK8 is the fact we're finally getting a Mario Kart    Before the gravity mechanic of MK8 was revealed, I expected it to be just another Mario Kart game, with few actual new ideas. But I was proven wrong. In Mario Kart 8, Nintendo has created their best Mario Kart in years. There's an abundance of ideas in this new entry, which makes it a joy to play.

    One of the most exciting things about MK8 is the fact we're finally getting a Mario Kart in HD. And it doesn't disappoint. The game looks amazing, constantly throwing in another welcome visual surprise. Mount Wario, for example, is a wondrous sight. The visuals in it are varied all the way through and you'll see a variety of views. What about Sunshine Airport? This intricately crafted track has you crossing a wide variety of terrain, with the visual spectacle of seeing a plane soar above you as you glide to the end of each lap. It's clear that there are a lot of points in the game which serve the purpose to simply amaze you visually again and again. With the fluid animations and crystal-clear graphics, it's impossible to complain about the visual side of things at all. What's more, the new anti-gravity mechanic makes it even more spectacular. You'll see things you never thought you's see in a Mario Kart game.

    But what about the sound? Simply put, it's wonderful. Much of the music is recorded live, giving a much richer quality than in past Mario Kart games. All the various pieces are excellent, contributing to the polish of MK8.

    However, the graphics and sound are merely an afterthought compared to MK8's revolutionary gameplay. Though gliders, kart customisation and all the rest of it return, the focus is on the brand-new mechanic that changes everything: anti-gravity. You can drive up walls, upside down, up a waterfall, and more. This new mechanic is used in many ways, and apart from the visusl thrill of driving upside down, it grants the gameplay a lot too. In Toad's Turnpike- which is actually a remake of the N64 version- you get the choice of driving on the walls the whole time, or staying on the road. This gives gameplay a whole new strategy. Also, when driving in anti-gravity, slamming into another racer doesn't slow you down, it instead gives you a speed boost. This means that now, even if you're playing as Mini Mario, you'll want to hit Bowser or DK to get that speed boost, completely overturning everything we knew about Mario Kart. Of course, MK8's other big innovation is Mario Kart TV- a feature that creates highlight reels of a race, with impressive camera angles, slow motion and the ability to edit the reel. You can then share these short videos on Miiverse and Youtube, a pleasant surprise from a tentative company when it comes to online. MKTV works well with anti-gravity because during gameplay, the camera still stays right behind you when you go upside down, meaning you still see it from the racer's perspective. However, MKTV shows the highlights from other camera angles, so you'll see your racer on their side or upside down- an impressive sight. On the whole, MKTV is an excelent addition which gives you the chance to share the best moments with friends.

    As for the multiplayer in MK8, it's a lot of fun. It's disappointing that you still have to play split-screen in spite of the Gamepad, but multiplayer is so fun that's easily forgivable. Online is great, with the well thought out voting system making a return so that a variety of courses can be played. There's no voice chat during play, and I wish you could type messages yourself between races, but the online is nevertheless solid.

    So far, I've been very positive about the game, though there are a few small complaints I have. The fact the Gamepad has the map is no longer a flaw since the update, so I can count that one out. However, the amount of characters you can play as is small. I appreciate the inclusion of the Koopalings, but overall the roster is underwhelming. And the less said about MK8's horrendous battle mode, the better. It was an enjoyable distraction from the main game in previous MK titles, but in this one, the battle stages have inexplicably been replaced by ordinary tracks, making it a mundane experience.

    These are small flaws when compared to the quality of the majority of the game. MK8 is one of the best entries in the series, with some of the most innovative game design I've seen in years and an impressive feature enabling you to share highlight reeks of races. Despite a couple of odd slip-ups, it's an outstanding game overall.    … Expand
  31. REVIEWERWILL
    Oct 26, 2014
    9
    this game has a dlc that comes with link there shold be a nintendo kart that would be cool i do not have the dlc for this its very fun more than mario kart 7
  32. danrenfroe2016
    Oct 26, 2014
    10
    Summary

    Best Entry in the Mario Kart Series. Even Beats my personal favorites Mario Kart 64 and Mario Kart DS. Presentation Absolutely perfect, you are greeted with excellently crafted in game models of favorite Nintendo characters, super visuals and great menus and online capability. Gameplay AAA gameplay in both the single player player and multi-player modes. I will not    Summary

    Best Entry in the Mario Kart Series. Even Beats my personal favorites Mario Kart 64 and Mario Kart DS.

    Presentation

    Absolutely perfect, you are greeted with excellently crafted in game models of favorite Nintendo characters, super visuals and great menus and online capability.

    Gameplay

    AAA gameplay in both the single player player and multi-player modes. I will not go into much detail as other reviews have detailed this completely. The addition of the glider, propeller and hovercraft mechanic is great and feels so much like Mario Kart even though it is new to the series. the Level design is absolutely top notch except for I would have liked more shortcuts. Also the mushroom powerup has been de-rated way to much for my liking. The other outstanding accomplishment is that the realism has been kicked up several notches (Don't worry its still Mario kart physics). All the Karts and bikes now have working suspension and wonderful cartoon like animations. Never have I felt that Wario and all the other playable characters were more alive. Their distinct personalities and traits really poke me with joy as I race the different characters.

    DLC: a welcome addition as they are adding different characters and Zelda for the first time is racing... And 16 additional tracks are incoming as well...

    Disappointment: Battle arenas are gone?!? I really hope Nintendo adds them back in within a game update as this is not cool...

    Graphics

    Stunning... Stunning... Stunning. This showcases the Wii U capabilities with special effects, great multi-layered textures and stunning lighting. Its amazing the difference in areas like moo-moo farm when comparing the Wii U and the Wii version. Runs at a steady 60fps for single and two player, and 30fps for 3 or 4 player.

    Sound

    Great sound, good Jazz music and effects. However I am disappointed with the 6.1 mix again...

    Personal Comments

    Great game, sunk more than 50 hours so far into this game.    … Expand
  33. LoZ_Link
    Oct 24, 2014
    10
    I will say this much. Three games make the amazing Wii U worth owning: Hyrule Warriors, Bayonetta 2, and this.

    Great graphics, tracks, customization, and finally, a game that knows how to do DLC.
  34. DreamcastUser
    Oct 19, 2014
    9
    One of the best Mario Karts to date. The artstyle is gorgeous, I love Rosalina and the kooplings being added to the roster, and lots of cool new carts. However best of all is the DLC Finally we can race Link in Mario Kart.
  35. tommyboy247
    Oct 15, 2014
    6
    Now I was a huge fan for Mario Kart Wii. It was intense, colourful and took great advantage of the Wii motion controllers, however its home console successor was a bit of a disappointment because in every tournament its really scripted and repetitive when the same a.i. end up in the same position every time, its really really frustrating hat the Wii U gamepad is really awkward to use as aNow I was a huge fan for Mario Kart Wii. It was intense, colourful and took great advantage of the Wii motion controllers, however its home console successor was a bit of a disappointment because in every tournament its really scripted and repetitive when the same a.i. end up in the same position every time, its really really frustrating hat the Wii U gamepad is really awkward to use as a motion controller so you just have to use the standard controller which is really boring, you can use the wii remote but anyone who didnt own a Wii before hand or didnt buy a remote with the system will have to stick with the boring gamepad, and the last problem is paid DLC. Now this game isnt all bad, it can still be fun because its georgus visuals, great soundtrack, fun online sessions, brillient level design and when its not repeditive its really thrilling.
    Thats my review for Mario Kart 8. I wish Nintendo did more for this game.    … Expand
  36. Vinccce
    Oct 14, 2014
    9
    Luigi is MLG MASTER quickscoping your mom with his death stare. !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  37. lucaskegler
    Oct 13, 2014
    10
    MK 8 é um jogo excelente, divertido, com ótimos gráficos, jogabilidade fácil mesmo havendo inúmeros desafios. Tem tudo que a franquia merecia ter de volta. Realmente indispensável a todos game-maníacos. A Nintendo fez justiça ao jogo e caprichou nos mínimos detalhes, até mesmo nas expressões dos personagens. Parabéns à Nintendo.
  38. brzin
    Oct 13, 2014
    10
    MK 8 has all the epic features of its origins and adds beatiful online multiplayer and new features that brightens the game. This is a trully must have!
  39. Makaveli
    Oct 7, 2014
    10
    I don't have a Wii U but played this at a buddies house and I had a lot of fun.. To be honest I haven't played a Mario Kart game since Mario Kart 64 and that was fun times. This brought back a lot of memories and I have an itch to buy a Wii U now to go alongside my gaming rig and my PS4.

    There isn't much to review of this game, it's a karting game, and a great one at that. It's just    I don't have a Wii U but played this at a buddies house and I had a lot of fun.. To be honest I haven't played a Mario Kart game since Mario Kart 64 and that was fun times. This brought back a lot of memories and I have an itch to buy a Wii U now to go alongside my gaming rig and my PS4.

    There isn't much to review of this game, it's a karting game, and a great one at that. It's just jolly fun and I'm happy that Nintendo is doing well with the Wii U now... Next pay I get I'll be an owner of a new Nintendo system that I haven't had since Nintendo 64.. I feel like a kid again...    … Expand
  40. cndman
    Oct 6, 2014
    9
    Very fun! keeps the same feel as Mario Kart 7, the items are balanced, and the stages are beautiful and exciting. The bad parts include the uninspired roster, and perhaps the fact that rainbow road isnt that hard.
  41. Linkruleshyrule
    Oct 3, 2014
    10
    This game is great graphics are out of this world Amazing! And the racing is as fun as ever the battle mode is disaponting and battling on tracks can make it hard to find other people. Hopefully this gets fixed and updated with arenas along with more modes in DLC down the track. Cant wait for the Zelda DLC coming in November and the Animal crossing one coming may next year. Buy a WII-U ifThis game is great graphics are out of this world Amazing! And the racing is as fun as ever the battle mode is disaponting and battling on tracks can make it hard to find other people. Hopefully this gets fixed and updated with arenas along with more modes in DLC down the track. Cant wait for the Zelda DLC coming in November and the Animal crossing one coming may next year. Buy a WII-U if you havent already as the good games keep coming.… Expand
  42. Eliut
    Oct 3, 2014
    10
    At first I had my doubts about the new "Anti-Gravity" option, but after I play it goes a little unnoticed and only on some tracks is useful for shortcuts.

    The game play is still of great quality as past Mario Karts and fun like the others. The mode to customize your car is fine, but manipulate their characteristics, can have been omitted. I would definitely missed more tracks and    At first I had my doubts about the new "Anti-Gravity" option, but after I play it goes a little unnoticed and only on some tracks is useful for shortcuts.

    The game play is still of great quality as past Mario Karts and fun like the others. The mode to customize your car is fine, but manipulate their characteristics, can have been omitted.

    I would definitely missed more tracks and more variety of characters, I find no difference in using a 5 babies.

    The announced DLC makes me have mixed feelings, Nintendo has fallen into the low trick to charge for a track and extra characters and that makes me sad.    … Expand
  43. JohnWitten
    Sep 29, 2014
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Overall Premise: Improve the series in many ways imaginable and as of yet not thought of.

    Graphics and Sound: The visuals look excellent on the Wii U and are the best in the series so far. Sound is comprised of good track selection and audio accompaniment ambiance as well.

    Playability and Entertainment: The gameplay is even more fun thanks to new twists and turns, literally at times. The controls work well on the standard controller.

    Replay Value: Moderately High.

    Overall Score: 9.0/10.0    … Expand
  44. battleTerror
    Sep 28, 2014
    10
    Amazing game! Far more fun than any 'real driving' simulator and the best multi player game for a long time. Great job Nintendo and reason enough for owning a Wii U.
  45. Krawbeard
    Sep 27, 2014
    10
    Honestly... its Mario Kart... Do i need to say anything else.

    Fun for all and even yourself.

    Its online as well and the DLC is way too fairly priced.
    I mean I feel like I'm stealing the DLC at what they want it for after paying what Sony, Microsoft, Activision, and Ea want for theirs.
  46. A_L_I_2013
    Sep 24, 2014
    1
    The levels are simply gorgeous. The cart variety keeps the game fresh. The small yet critical changes made to the game affect how you play compared to previous titles. This game is for the hard core player while also being a living room favorite. My only hope is that battle gets updated because right now it is lack luster at best.
  47. Forbod
    Sep 22, 2014
    5
    While i'm a huge fan of most Nintendo games I have to say that Mariokart 8 was a bit of a let down. Don't let the massive hype and undying fan-dom of people fool you into thinking that all Nintendo games are super fantastic perfect games. While Mariokart 8 sported great graphics and fun gameplay. It did however lack in the character department sporting many unpopular Bowser spawns andWhile i'm a huge fan of most Nintendo games I have to say that Mariokart 8 was a bit of a let down. Don't let the massive hype and undying fan-dom of people fool you into thinking that all Nintendo games are super fantastic perfect games. While Mariokart 8 sported great graphics and fun gameplay. It did however lack in the character department sporting many unpopular Bowser spawns and baby versions of characters. But what really destroyed my love for this game is the realization that the game purposefully punishes winners and rewards losers during a race via the power up system. Whereas if you are holding 1st place you have a 90% chance of receiving just coins (Even if you have your max 10/10 coins) from the power-up cubes and a 0% chance of getting any strong power ups. The best you may receive is a single mushroom boost or a green shell but those are very very rare. This leaves anyone trying to hold 1st at a huge disadvantage and completely defenseless and usually easily beat at the last stretch of the race unless the person in 1st is a extremely far ahead.

    All and all I kinda regret paying 60 bucks for this game and the only real fun i get from is it playing with friends locally.    … Expand
  48. gizmo2501
    Sep 21, 2014
    9
    Wasn't in to this version of Mario Kart at first, but it's really grown on me. It's much harder than Mario Kart Wii, but still incredibly enjoyable. The fact that it's harder means it's more enjoyable for good players. But it's also really accessible for new players and children.

    The attention to detail is astounding. There are loads of small things that put a smile on your face. The    Wasn't in to this version of Mario Kart at first, but it's really grown on me. It's much harder than Mario Kart Wii, but still incredibly enjoyable. The fact that it's harder means it's more enjoyable for good players. But it's also really accessible for new players and children.

    The attention to detail is astounding. There are loads of small things that put a smile on your face. The graphics are beautiful. The new DLC is very reasonably priced and looks set to continue.

    The ONLY problem with this game is the battle mode, but I am sure that will get fixed.

    But, most importantly, this game is FUN and with HUGE replay value.    … Expand
  49. IrontreeStudios
    Sep 16, 2014
    7
    Mario Kart 8 is great! The inverted gravity mechanic that the developers added put a fun spin on the already fun game play. The creative track designs and seemingly never ending Kart upgrades keeps players wanting to stay in the game for more. As we all know, Nintendo needs to beef up their online play, which is the only reason I didn't score this game as a solid 10. I just wish I had moreMario Kart 8 is great! The inverted gravity mechanic that the developers added put a fun spin on the already fun game play. The creative track designs and seemingly never ending Kart upgrades keeps players wanting to stay in the game for more. As we all know, Nintendo needs to beef up their online play, which is the only reason I didn't score this game as a solid 10. I just wish I had more friends with a Wii U.… Expand
  50. GamerJesus
    Sep 13, 2014
    9
    Finally un-locked all pre-DLC characters!
    Best looking Mario Kart there is.
    Missing Arenas that were replaced them with actual racetracks - that's a step back.
    Handles perfectly and I love the 8 Power Up
    I'll be buying the DLC when I can afford to because I want to play as Link and am looking forward to new tracks.
    If you own a WiiU, I wholeheartedly recommend this one.
  51. X-fushion
    Sep 12, 2014
    7
    This game is overrated within the context of it own series, While Mario Kart 8 is a solid, fun and well designed (for the most part) it has some issues that put it away from "perfection". In the core Mario Kart 8 is great, the tracks are well designed and every single one has an unique charm, both visually and technically also you don't feel that the tracks are the same all of them hadThis game is overrated within the context of it own series, While Mario Kart 8 is a solid, fun and well designed (for the most part) it has some issues that put it away from "perfection". In the core Mario Kart 8 is great, the tracks are well designed and every single one has an unique charm, both visually and technically also you don't feel that the tracks are the same all of them had "personality", their own gimmicks and obstacles making them fun and challenging to play. Other welcome addition new vehicle customization the game, is kind of basic but works well, it suits your play style better and the vehicle classes (Kart ,bike, sport bike and ATV) bring balance to the game and more variety some vehicles like karts are better in straight line tracks while others like the sport bikes do better in sharp curves tracks, picking your vehicle is no longer a "it looks cool" fact it's about what vehicle suits you best and it brings more depth in the game. Also Drifting and mini turbo are nearly mandatory in the game, there's no longer an automatic or manual option, fortunately performing a drifting is vey easy unlike Mario kart wii and more responsive, master it to perform the super mini turbo requires a little practice but nothing hard or out of place, while it's possible to play the game without drifting is a game breaker if you decide to not, since all the CPU by default do it, and most of the players also do it because is to simple to execute, so don’t be surprised if you lose most of the time because you are not drifting. So at this point it sounds that Mario Kart 8 is a game that involves pure skill, well yes but also involves luck in the form of items the series had since the beginning you know throwing shells at opponents, using mushrooms to boost, that kind of stuff, unfortunately the very items is the downfall of Mario Kart 8, making it a game more about luck than skill. It's true that in Mario Kart luck comes to place but in past MK games skill was a more important factor sure you can be in 10th place and get cool items like the golden mushroom and bullet bills, but no matter how good the items were they meant little if the guy at 1st place was good at driving, and Mario kart 8 is the complete opposite for the most part, is more about the items you get than how good you are at driving. Let me go more in depth in Past Mario Kart Games, Like Mario Kart Wii for instance there was always called "item priority" this means that the lower you are in the place list you'll get better offensive items like a star, 3 red shells, a lighting, etc. and the higher you were you'll get basic offensive items and more defensive items, like a single red shell, bananas, green shells etc. So it worked well giving the guy in 12th place an edge to pass the opponents while giving the guy in fist place basic items to "shield" him/herself from the rest. In Mario Kart 8 that is no more, Item priority now is random, except from the guy in first place, so now you van get stars in 3rd place, triple red shells in second, lightning in fourth and even a bullet bill in fifth place, but in 1st place is more common to get the new coin item that a defensive item like a green shell, the coins in the game act like a boost you can collect them in the track or by getting one at the item box, collect 10 of them and you'll gain a little speed boost, the problem is that collecting 10 coins is way to easy and most of the time in 1st place you'll stock up real quick, not to mention that the coin item still appears even if you are max out, this means that the game somehow has the 1st place items prioritized by making coins more common that actual items, so this means that if you manage to get to 1st place there's barley any way to defend yourself from items. So that just throw over the window the whole skill add-ons like customization and drifting, sure there's some skill involved but now the guy that gets the better items wins this is way more notorious if you play online. So follow my strategy, don't ever try to be on first place the whole race always try to be in 3rd or lower that way you'll get all the cool items while the lead player can barely do anything to protect him/herself and when the final lap comes then try to lead the race at the half of the track, is more likely that you'll win this way than by trying to speed up all the time. Also there's no battle mode, well it is but is way to broken, the battles are without a radar in the main tracks, so yeah no battle arenas just tracks, is very uncomfortable to play, you'll spend 99% of the time trying to look for the other players and is just not fun at all. Mario Kart 8 still of its flaws still a good, fun game and you can have a great time with it, but is way to far to be the best Mario kart game.… Expand
  52. frogvsmosquito
    Sep 12, 2014
    9
    Before I got Mario Kart 8, the only experience i had with Mario Kart was playing it on my friend's DS. And that previous experience was positive. This, however, is even better. It's all I remember from the DS game and a lot more.
    The first thing you'll notice when you start racing is the antigravity. Antigravity sections work differently than the others. Colliding into your opponents    Before I got Mario Kart 8, the only experience i had with Mario Kart was playing it on my friend's DS. And that previous experience was positive. This, however, is even better. It's all I remember from the DS game and a lot more.
    The first thing you'll notice when you start racing is the antigravity. Antigravity sections work differently than the others. Colliding into your opponents would normally be a bad idea, but in antigravity when you collide into an opponent, you'll both get a little speed boost, so use it wisely to get ahead!
    The game has 32 tracks (16 new and 16 retro). Tracks have so much variety. On one track you'll find yourself in a world made out of sweets, on the other you'll be racing through pipes avoiding Piranha Plants, on the other one you'll be on a big floating track above the city, you name it! And with the new DLC coming, which will add 16 more tracks, expect to be racing through Hyrule!
    Online multiplayer is one of the best I've seen. Didn't. Crash. Once. And the feeling when you finish first, ahead of experts... it's so satisfying. You can also either participate in tournaments, or you can create your own for others to compete in. Rule settings are pretty detailed such as race class, time when tournament begins/ends, number of races... You can also bring a friend to play online with you in the same room! Oh the laughs, rages, ups and downs...
    The only thing I don't like is the battle mode. The goal is to pop other player's balloons. This time, instead of specially designed battle arenas, you'll be battling on one of the 8 selected tracks. It can take a while for someone to pass so you can pop the opponent's balloon. Or you can hide behind a rock or something and wait for some clueless Mushroom kingdom resident to pass and pop his balloons. Hehehe...
    Overall, very good game that you should own if you have a Wii U.    … Expand
  53. Fboogey
    Sep 11, 2014
    10
    The best Mario Kart ever (maybe with the exception of the first Mario Kart that started it all) and the best carting game out there period and the most fun racer out there. The amazing graphics and background, the wide selection of characters (Yoshi is my favorite). Love the upside down tracks and the underwater. Improving the battle mode is the only way this could get better
  54. Soccerdude00
    Sep 11, 2014
    9
    A throughly excellent addition to my now growing Wii U library, Mario Kart 8 is without a doubt a worthwhile purchase. The game uses the Wii U's graphics to great effect, creating wonderful settings for whipping around the course with your favorite Mario mascot. Retro courses are well designed. But the new courses are exciting as well. Battles are a disappointment, however. Instead of aA throughly excellent addition to my now growing Wii U library, Mario Kart 8 is without a doubt a worthwhile purchase. The game uses the Wii U's graphics to great effect, creating wonderful settings for whipping around the course with your favorite Mario mascot. Retro courses are well designed. But the new courses are exciting as well. Battles are a disappointment, however. Instead of a small, compact, brand new/retro arena like Mario Kart Wii among others, you instead just race around the same courses you use for multiplayer and single player. This is the only reason why I didn't give this game a ten. Online mode is outstanding, with connection speeds that are fast and lag doesn't exist. Here's hoping they use online this well in the new Smash Bros!… Expand
  55. destinydoessuck
    Sep 9, 2014
    10
    Mario Kart 8 is the game WII U owners deserve, after the WII U'S bad start, mediocre 3rd party ports and long droughts it's amazing that one game can make everything right. The graphics are top notch and are on par with most released PS4 games. The game play is fun and addictive. There's excellent variety of tracks, vehicles, characters and customization. The online mode offers greatMario Kart 8 is the game WII U owners deserve, after the WII U'S bad start, mediocre 3rd party ports and long droughts it's amazing that one game can make everything right. The graphics are top notch and are on par with most released PS4 games. The game play is fun and addictive. There's excellent variety of tracks, vehicles, characters and customization. The online mode offers great competition and excellent replay value. Now for the downside, some tracks look muggy and there's an unnecessary use of the anti gravity in some tracks. The online mode lacks voice chat during the race, I would've enjoyed vocally taunting some players. The online mode does suffer from lag depending on the region you play in. Overall the game is the best game so far in 2014, PURE NINTENDO MAGIC… Expand
  56. BariothGuy
    Sep 9, 2014
    9
    This is the perfect Mario Kart game. There's a ton of new gameplay mechanics and content but it still feels like Mario Kart. Even after you do everything you can in the single player modes and your friends/siblings get bored and want something different, you still can go online and race other people. The average player could get around 50 hours of gameplay out of it, but with new contentThis is the perfect Mario Kart game. There's a ton of new gameplay mechanics and content but it still feels like Mario Kart. Even after you do everything you can in the single player modes and your friends/siblings get bored and want something different, you still can go online and race other people. The average player could get around 50 hours of gameplay out of it, but with new content on the way there's even more fun to be had. The only flaw are the battle mode tracks, but Nintendo will probably fix that too. A Wii U must have.… Expand
  57. GamertronGamer
    Sep 5, 2014
    9
    Mario Kart 8 is a fun new game for the Nintendo WiiU. The Battle Mode has only Balloon Battle, and all physics and graphics were improved. I love the tracks dearly, and overall, it is a great game.
  58. tiho
    Aug 31, 2014
    10
    It's everything you can ask from a Mario Kart game: accessible but deep enough driving gameplay, varied tracks, great gaphics... and lots of fun in multiplayer (local or online). An awesome game all Wii U owners should get!
  59. ToFewViews
    Aug 31, 2014
    9
    Mario Kart 8 did come out a few months ago, so if
    you are one of the many people who bought a Wii-U
    to play this game you already know how fun and amazing it is. I picked up Mario Kart 8 the day it released and didn't put it down tell I had beat all tracks on 150cc. Then once you do that...You unlock all the tracks in reverse! Leaving you with tons of races to try and beat. The game    Mario Kart 8 did come out a few months ago, so if
    you are one of the many people who bought a Wii-U
    to play this game you already know how fun and amazing
    it is. I picked up Mario Kart 8 the day it released
    and didn't put it down tell I had beat all tracks
    on 150cc. Then once you do that...You unlock all the
    tracks in reverse! Leaving you with tons of races to
    try and beat. The game also has a great online multilayer
    letting you play 2 players online with one system. Online
    has tournaments and a full ranking system to. The Graphics
    to the game are some of the nicest I have seen on the Wii-U
    since Super Mario 3D World. I find the game just about
    perfect, I have only a few problems with the game. I
    find the difficulty in the later races can be unfair
    and very aggravating. Also would have been nice to see
    more playable characters, seems like they filled the game
    with Baby versions of main characters and all the Koopa Kids.
    But over all this game is a must play!

    ToFewViews    … Expand
  60. Hayato
    Aug 29, 2014
    10
    The best, everything i thought it was going to be. Want more games this good. Fantastic game with an abundance of gorgeous looking courses and awesome music, It will providehundreds of hours of fun whether you are playing alone or with friends
  61. NeedleBanger
    Aug 28, 2014
    5
    Take a look at the number of positive reviews vs. negative ones for this game, that should give you a little microcosm of the ratio between idiots & people with brains in this world. I love that one moron: "GO OUT AND BUY A Wii U FOR THIS GAME". Good lord buddy, I bet you're required by law to wear a hockey helmet every time you walk to the corner store. This game SUCKS and will entertainTake a look at the number of positive reviews vs. negative ones for this game, that should give you a little microcosm of the ratio between idiots & people with brains in this world. I love that one moron: "GO OUT AND BUY A Wii U FOR THIS GAME". Good lord buddy, I bet you're required by law to wear a hockey helmet every time you walk to the corner store. This game SUCKS and will entertain somebody with brain cells for a week tops. Anybody who gave this game a score of 9 or higher has no clue what they're talking about. If you bought a Wii U I already feel sorry for you, and don't give Nintendo any more money until they finally deserve it (this isn't the time). This game is for 5 year olds, and stupid ones at that, who will never have a clue. It would suck to just be starting off in this world & thinking pure trash is good all the time. If this game is a 9/10 then KILL ME NOW!… Expand
  62. AmACheeseburger
    Aug 28, 2014
    10
    I love Mario Kart!!!! Go buy a Wii U! Buy it now!!!!!!!!!! Save the Wii U!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  63. AVdE
    Aug 26, 2014
    9
    Astonishing how beautiful Mario Kart looks in HD! The tracks are fabulous and the anti-gravity makes an exciting and awesome addition in terms of gameplay. Everything about this game is absolutely amazing, with a few exceptions:

    The battle mode tracks from previous mario kart games are replaced with slightly modified tracks. This makes battle mode feel a lot like regular racing, so    Astonishing how beautiful Mario Kart looks in HD! The tracks are fabulous and the anti-gravity makes an exciting and awesome addition in terms of gameplay. Everything about this game is absolutely amazing, with a few exceptions:

    The battle mode tracks from previous mario kart games are replaced with slightly modified tracks. This makes battle mode feel a lot like regular racing, so hopefully nintendo will fix this with DLC.

    The weapon selection doesn't feel balanced. Sometimes, you get boosts in first place, or a green shell in 8th place or lower. And once you end up in the middle during online races, you get brutally smashed.

    A minor flaw is that the gamepad screen displays the same split screen from the TV during local multiplayer, instead of only the own racer's screen.

    Further, there are a couple of tiny drawbacks that are going to be fixed with an upcoming update, so they're not really worth mentioning.

    Overall though, Mario Kart 8 is an amazing game. It's plenty of fun, it looks gorgeous, it runs smoothly and it's a blast to play with friends.    … Expand
  64. Justin7387100
    Aug 25, 2014
    10
    This game is freaking amazing! One of the best games and best looking on the wii u. This game alone made the wii u jump start all over again! But anyways lets get on to the review! Mario Kart 8 is hands down the best game i have ever played. It has stunning graphics and great tracks and controls are great! The items are a little sad this time around. When you are in first you'll get a coinThis game is freaking amazing! One of the best games and best looking on the wii u. This game alone made the wii u jump start all over again! But anyways lets get on to the review! Mario Kart 8 is hands down the best game i have ever played. It has stunning graphics and great tracks and controls are great! The items are a little sad this time around. When you are in first you'll get a coin alot. Online play is amazing but just be prepared for the really good Japan players. Over all MK8 Is amazing and you should go get it your self.… Expand
  65. SwitSwat
    Aug 24, 2014
    9
    I'm going to be honest here... I wasn't planning on buying this game. Mostly due to the fact I lost interest in the series when Mario Kart Wii came out (I just didn't like it). The free game offer from Nintendo sweetened the deal for me though, so I went ahead and bought it and I am so glad I did. It... is... AMAZING! It has some of the best, if not the best graphics in a Wii U game toI'm going to be honest here... I wasn't planning on buying this game. Mostly due to the fact I lost interest in the series when Mario Kart Wii came out (I just didn't like it). The free game offer from Nintendo sweetened the deal for me though, so I went ahead and bought it and I am so glad I did. It... is... AMAZING! It has some of the best, if not the best graphics in a Wii U game to date. The courses are cleverly designed and it features very addicting multiplayer and challenges. It even allows for voice chat with friends. (Although it would have been cool to have voice chat with all players.) The one thing I didn't like though, was the battle mode. They just recycled the regular tracks. No arenas. It's sad o see they got lazy with it. Even so, this is probably the best Mario Kart to date. 9/10… Expand
  66. foxmccloud
    Aug 24, 2014
    8
    Mario Kart 8 has never looked better in HD. The graphics in gameplay are really fun. But the main feature was the anti-gravity which made your car drive upside down. it was cool but not mind-blowing. I enjoyed the new items such as the Boomerang, Piranha Plant, and Horn. Another feature is Mario Kart TV which just lets you replay your Mario Kart races and lets you upload them to MiiverseMario Kart 8 has never looked better in HD. The graphics in gameplay are really fun. But the main feature was the anti-gravity which made your car drive upside down. it was cool but not mind-blowing. I enjoyed the new items such as the Boomerang, Piranha Plant, and Horn. Another feature is Mario Kart TV which just lets you replay your Mario Kart races and lets you upload them to Miiverse or YouTube. The thing I hated the most was battle mode. Its ruined. Instead of racing in an arena, you race on full racing tracks which really sucks. Mario Kart 8 is still a great racing title and you should definitely buy it now.… Expand
  67. lpfm
    Aug 23, 2014
    9
    Recently I played Mario Kart Wii and Mario Kart 8 is a improvment in 80% of the content. Item by item (the more significant to me):

    1) The battle mode is tremendous better in wii; Seems like nintendo dedevelopers were lazy in this point; 2) The single player mode, to me, is just the same (means not deep); 3) I never tried the online play in wii one, but in the Mk8 the online mode is    Recently I played Mario Kart Wii and Mario Kart 8 is a improvment in 80% of the content. Item by item (the more significant to me):

    1) The battle mode is tremendous better in wii; Seems like nintendo dedevelopers were lazy in this point;
    2) The single player mode, to me, is just the same (means not deep);
    3) I never tried the online play in wii one, but in the Mk8 the online mode is great. Mention: Missing features: Voice chat (or at least a text one).
    4)The visual! One of the great improvement! No coments here more than "I really love the MK8 visuals;
    5)The balance is great. The number of variable that influence it is significant bigger (in this is great);
    6)Character choice has a improvement too.    … Expand
  68. Nickname
    Aug 20, 2014
    5
    It might be fun if you play it casually, but if you really wanna play the game seriously online and aim for 1st place it's horrible. But this game has it's bright sides, so I'll adress these first. The visuals are gorgeus, by far the best-looking Wii U game yet. They even managed to bring the Koopalings unique personalities just by their animations. The game also runs at 60 frames perIt might be fun if you play it casually, but if you really wanna play the game seriously online and aim for 1st place it's horrible. But this game has it's bright sides, so I'll adress these first. The visuals are gorgeus, by far the best-looking Wii U game yet. They even managed to bring the Koopalings unique personalities just by their animations. The game also runs at 60 frames per seconds unless you're driving in 3- or 4-Player mode, there's only 30 fps. The soundtrack is also great and memorable, especially the new renditions of the retro tracks' music are great. My only complaint is that the whistles on the remake of SNES Donut Plains 3 are missing except you're in 1st, but that's an extremely minor complaint. The Retro courses were remade really well and sometimes look like whole new courses. Only complaint is that few courses use the anti-gravity feature to its best. Memorable are only the Water Park loop, the spinning Mario Circuit and the few (often optional) sections where you drive on the walls while others stay on the ground, like in Thwomp Ruins or Toad's Turnpike, a returning track from Mario Kart 64. Also, all new tracks use Anti-Gravity atleast once and all Retro tracks use atleast one of Gliding, Diving and Anti-Gravity, new features introduced in Mario Kart 7 and 8. Rainbow Road is also a pretty huge letdown. Many expected a track that twists and turns all around the place like the Wario Colloseum track back on Mario Kart: Double Dash!!, but it's pretty linear and the coolest thing about it is where the track splits into two paths and you can jump from one to another to cut distance. But in the end, the track design is pretty solid and tracks like the disco stage Electrodrome and the adventurous and extremely diverse track Mount Wario are already fan favorites. The Single Player is what you'd expect from a Mario Kart game, GPs to unlock characters and vehicle parts ,returning from Mario Kart 7, Time Trials to compete for the best times on courses, VS races with custom rules and battle. Battle is the first big letdown since you battle on courses instead of arenas, but since I don't battle too often, it's not too big of a letdown for me. Offlien Multiplayer is one of the most fun parts of the game, since you can just drive casually with friends and family. Next is the roster, which has cut many fan favorite characters like Diddy Kong, King Boo or Dry Bones in favor of a golden reskin of Peach and a baby version of Rosalina, and all 7 Koopalings. While I miss Dry Bones, the Koopalings are more diverse then expected and fun to use. Online's features are neat but limited. Mario Kart TV leta you upload videos of your races to YouTube, but only 1 Minute highlights and you can't edit camera angles or anything. Tournaments are an evolution of MK7's communities, now you can edit the time where it goes, restrict characters etc. Only letdown is that tournaments can't be all day and have to pause for 1 hour daily. But now, for the online play. If you don't know what online play is, it's basically like offline racing, but you race against players from around the globe and gain "VR" for racing "BR" for battling. But unlike in Mario Kart Wii where it mostly showed a player's skill, in Mario Kart 8 it shows for how long you've been playing. Max VR is 9999 like in Mario Kart Wii, but you start at 1000 VR (you started at 5000 VR in Mario Kart Wii) and VR growth is slow... You don't lose about any VR on losing and gain not much, so it'll most likely take you a long time to gain VR. In Mario Kart Wii, however, you can lose your VR very fast. You mostly balance out at one number after enough races, and mostly keep it along with your skill level. But the biggest dread, the items. Maio Kart Wii was mostly criticised for rubber banding, but I think Mario Kart 8's item balance is even worse. Coin is mostly the most common item you get in 1st. This makes an incoming red shell as dangerous as a blue shell, especially since both slow you down about the same time. The most dangerous items? Shocks and Bananas. Why? Because Shells don't kick you around and put your speed at 0 anymore, while Bananas make you spin for an awfully long time. There are no invincibility frames after getting hit, so after a hitz prepare for many hits, since you can't do anything while flipping, but enemies still can hit you. THAT'S what kills all possible fun for me. You can't even be sure to get revenge after falling behind, since even in 10th Bananas or Triple Green Shells aren't too rare. The item system is horrible, and as someone that actually wants to do GOOD this doesn't help, neither does the fat you can only hold one item.

    So, while playing it for fun is good, you can get super frustrated if you try to really play the game for ding good. So if you're okay with getting hit for unfair reasons, go buy this game! If you wanna play a fair game, play Mario Kart Wii online via the Custom Server "Wiimmfi" instead.    … Expand
  69. hdgamer
    Aug 19, 2014
    8
    Funny, but far from a master piece, the randomness prevails in the races and there's no way to talk with people while racing. The major difficulty is evading the shells that will mostly ruin your race.
  70. Zeldafan19
    Aug 16, 2014
    10
    Nintendo puts out their best Mario kart experience yet with Mario Kart 8. The graphics are stunning, the music is awesome, and the game has so much content. Online is as smooth as ever, and you can even set up tournaments. This is one of the best Wii u games to date, and anyone who loves Mario kart should buy this. Buy a Wii u just for this amazing game.
  71. JudeMattingly
    Aug 13, 2014
    8
    Wonderful level design, amazing color palate, but a less than average character roster. Loading screens for a Mario Kart is odd as well. Great game overall just not as good as Double Dash.
  72. nonchalantgamer
    Aug 13, 2014
    9
    Mario Kart 8 is an awesome addition to the franchise.The racing is as fun as ever, and the few new items they threw in definitely add fun to the variety of items. the tracks are incredible with beautiful visuals and tons of variety within. their are secrets paths to take with mushrooms and the flight paths you can reach and going into and out of the water adds more depth to the tracks. theMario Kart 8 is an awesome addition to the franchise.The racing is as fun as ever, and the few new items they threw in definitely add fun to the variety of items. the tracks are incredible with beautiful visuals and tons of variety within. their are secrets paths to take with mushrooms and the flight paths you can reach and going into and out of the water adds more depth to the tracks. the anti gravity areas on the tracks are very fun add on as well that adds an alternate switch of pace. the amount of cars/parts in the game is crazy and their so many ways you can customize your kart to fit your specific play style. the roster size is fairly large with the additions of bowsers kids and much more. the only gripes i have on the game is that the battle mode is really bad and feels like they got lazy with it just throwing you on the grand prix tracks and going at it, i felt they could have done much more. also the MP as fun as it is the servers are not that good and i cant find matches that often. overall what it comes down to is that alone or sitting in your room with a group of friends, mario kart 8 provides immense amount of fun and good times that will last you for quite a while and brings back so much nostalgia for me as a long time fan.… Expand
  73. dinosauryoshi
    Aug 10, 2014
    9
    The best Mario Kart since the N64 era. The end. Well actually that’s not the end, here’s the full review;

    On the gameplay front this is the best Mario Kart yet. The physics feel deeper and the karts feel so fun and smooth to drive. The anti-gravity works really well and I love the addition of the spin boost especially. I also think the new weapons are great and add something new. I even    The best Mario Kart since the N64 era. The end. Well actually that’s not the end, here’s the full review;

    On the gameplay front this is the best Mario Kart yet. The physics feel deeper and the karts feel so fun and smooth to drive. The anti-gravity works really well and I love the addition of the spin boost especially. I also think the new weapons are great and add something new. I even like the coin item as it means the leader can’t always bank on getting something to hang off their backside and protect them as they zoom to victory, I do however wish it appeared a little less frequently. Now only being able to hold one item at a time was also a good move in my opinion for similar reasons, the leader can’t have two protective items at once and is always at least a little vulnerable.

    Visually it looks good enough to eat (particularly the candy track). This (along with Mario 3D World) is one of the best looking games I’ve ever played and it truly feels ‘next gen’, a great display of what the Wii U can do. The amount of detail put into each of the tracks and backgrounds is wonderful, more than you’ll ever pick-up while zooming along. It’s a colourful visual feast throughout. The frame rate is a rock solid and smooth 60hz,only dropping in 3 or 4 player local play and the music played by a live band really adds energy to each track and brings the whole experience to life.

    There’s plenty of content too. 32 tracks, 16 of which are new and all of which are great. Not a dud in the bunch. The 16 retro tracks have been so well done and changed to accommodate the new anti-grav and/or underwater elements that they feel almost like new tracks themselves. The battle mode however leaves a little to be desired due to the lack of battle arenas and use of a variety of the tracks instead. This is still quite fun but gets boring quickly and the addition of some arenas really would have improved this mode no end. There are plenty of characters to choose from but the roster is a little samey and the lack of Diddy Kong is a particular shame. One has to mention the brilliant and well balanced vehicle customisations though which offer a lot of variety and are a lot of fun to play around with to find your preferred combination of kart/bike, wheels, and glider.

    The single player won’t take a seasoned pro long to complete and is made up of the usual 50, 100, and 150cc and mirror modes across 16 cups of varying difficulty but it’s in multiplayer where this game shines, particularly with the new refined online experience. The frame rate drops noticeably when over two players play locally which is a shame but is to be expected and this doesn’t stop the game being fun at all. It just loses a little of it’s polish. The online is magnificent. Tournaments allow for custom rulesets and times for tournaments to be open. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed being able to join in on tournaments from my favourite online publications (Nintendo life etc) and to my experience the races run completely smoothly with lag a rare occurrence. Having 12 racers on the track from all over the world hurling shells at each other is honestly some of the most amazing fun I’ve had playing a video game in recent times, if not ever! Being able to play 2 player online is an excellent addition too.

    In conclusion this is easily the best Mario Kart since 64 with the only things holding it back from a perfect score being the lack of battle arenas, the slightly disappointing roster and the over prevalence of the coin item. All in all Mario Kart 8 is some of the best fun you could ever have on a console. It really is that good. Drop dead gorgeous, thrilling gameplay and a rock solid and fun online mode make this a game I’ll be playing for a long, long time.

    Update: An update is apparently imminent in which the map will be moved to the main screen along with a bunch of other small fixes. Whoop.    … Expand
  74. soccerzz5
    Aug 8, 2014
    9
    Almost the perfect game, not just racing game but game, stunning graphics, a lot of character and online features.
    The only thing that bothers me and everyone i guess, is the lack of battle stages, why nintendo???, we has them since Super Mario Kart, maybe we can get them as DLC, but we want it now.
  75. Fruit-Dragon
    Aug 7, 2014
    10
    I really loved this game. Like, really. This is the kind of game that shows off how great the console truly is, and it does it beautifully as well. Although it doesn't goes as fast as it could (it still goes fast, though) it makes up with it for it's truly amazing graphics. This game shows off how powerful a Wii U is (it's even adding DLC to make better in the future, and an update isI really loved this game. Like, really. This is the kind of game that shows off how great the console truly is, and it does it beautifully as well. Although it doesn't goes as fast as it could (it still goes fast, though) it makes up with it for it's truly amazing graphics. This game shows off how powerful a Wii U is (it's even adding DLC to make better in the future, and an update is coming soon) and it does it in the best way possible. 10/10 would play again.… Expand
  76. AuroreZell
    Aug 7, 2014
    10
    This is by far the best Mario kart game released up to this point. My only real complaint about this game are some the of characters, and that's just nitpicking. The online feature works great and its a lot of fun to test your skills against other players. I would say that its worth getting a Wii U just to play this game, thats how much fun it is.
  77. BROstoise
    Aug 7, 2014
    10
    10/10 best Mario Kart. Stunning visuals, racetracks filled to the brim with creativity, and transformations from Mario Kart 7 have been perfected.

    There were 2 complaints: the coin item, and the ability to only carry one item. Several times, I found myself wishing for a coin, since the ones on the race track usually arent along the inner-most curve, also known as the fastest route.    10/10 best Mario Kart. Stunning visuals, racetracks filled to the brim with creativity, and transformations from Mario Kart 7 have been perfected.

    There were 2 complaints: the coin item, and the ability to only carry one item.
    Several times, I found myself wishing for a coin, since the ones on the race track usually arent along the inner-most curve, also known as the fastest route.

    Constantly holding down the left shoulder button to have 2 items gave me hand cramps. The pain is gone now because I can only hold one item anyway.    … Expand
  78. emersonrwt
    Aug 6, 2014
    10
    Here we have a great example about how NINTENDO reach the top quality since foundation. Environment carefully drawn on each level, charismatic characters, calibrated controls, and unlimited fun.
    Only people without sense like to give to classic games like this a lower score just because they are fanboys...
  79. TheDarkKnight22
    Aug 6, 2014
    8
    In many ways , this is the best mario kart. even though mario kart is past it's prime, this game is one of the best games to come out this year so far.(other than dkc tropical freeze). The game feels like it grew up with me and the original mario kart audience while still able to attract the younger audience that nintendo is known for
  80. raykaytwo
    Aug 6, 2014
    8
    Solid Mario Kart.
    Not more, not less. When you own Nintendo consoles, than you own Mario Kart. That's a fact. And you get what you expect with this one. Better graphics new characters a new vehicle and new stages.
    One Major letdown is the vs combat mode. They didnt build new Arenas, they just used the same ones. This really upsets me. To sum it up: if you like Mario Kart you should buy    Solid Mario Kart.
    Not more, not less. When you own Nintendo consoles, than you own Mario Kart. That's a fact. And you get what you expect with this one. Better graphics new characters a new vehicle and new stages.
    One Major letdown is the vs combat mode. They didnt build new Arenas, they just used the same ones.
    This really upsets me.
    To sum it up: if you like Mario Kart you should buy this, if not, consider other Wii U titles.    … Expand
  81. Kirisoul
    Aug 5, 2014
    10
    You may have heard that this game doesn't have a good battle mode... That the item balance is still a bit off... Or maybe that it has a strange character roster featuring a few too many koopalings... And all of it is true.

    But the gameplay itself in MK8 is so ridiculously polished and amazing that for me, all of that was overshadowed. Sure, Nintendo didn't include as many bells and    You may have heard that this game doesn't have a good battle mode... That the item balance is still a bit off... Or maybe that it has a strange character roster featuring a few too many koopalings... And all of it is true.

    But the gameplay itself in MK8 is so ridiculously polished and amazing that for me, all of that was overshadowed. Sure, Nintendo didn't include as many bells and whistles in MK8 as in other titles, but as a game itself, it can't be faulted. Presentation and graphics are all top notch, and the music is absolutely stellar with its unique orchestration and various styles. There's also a lot of nuance to the courses with anti-gravity, air, and sea travel finally implemented on a console MK. Its a game that entertains without fail, even long after all the tracks have worked themselves into your memory (which they will!)

    Can't recommend this game more, definitely a definitive title on the Wii U.    … Expand
  82. isasif826
    Aug 2, 2014
    8
    Oh Mario Kart, you will always be great fun no matter what medium you are experienced in.

    The New Mario Kart 8, is a very fun and exiting addition to the Wii U console. With more characters and cars to choose from, there is plenty of fun to be had. The new tracks feel fresh but perhaps not as memorable as previous tracks such as rainbow road from GC, or music park 3DS. The new Graphics    Oh Mario Kart, you will always be great fun no matter what medium you are experienced in.

    The New Mario Kart 8, is a very fun and exiting addition to the Wii U console. With more characters and cars to choose from, there is plenty of fun to be had. The new tracks feel fresh but perhaps not as memorable as previous tracks such as rainbow road from GC, or music park 3DS. The new Graphics are fantastic, and the New item system brings a different playing field in terms of strategy and difficulty, that has not been seen in previous installments. This game really makes you focus on how well you can race, as opposed to how lucky you get with items.

    Overall I will say this game is an 8, but only because it lacks a strong Battle system, which in my opinion, is one of the most fun features of a Mario Kart game. I would gladly sacrifice character and kart variation for some decent battle stages but that is just me. All in all, You will not be disappointed with Mario Kart 8.    … Expand
  83. endn
    Jul 31, 2014
    6
    Worst Mario Kart. I appreciate the updated graphics, but the core gameplay is broken. Items are no fun to use because tracks are often too wide and splits into two or more paths that racers are too far apart. Not to mention you rarely get fun item if you are top 3. Battle mode is completely ruined.

    AI cheats too obviously. For example you can be #1 for 2 laps and everybody seems to    Worst Mario Kart. I appreciate the updated graphics, but the core gameplay is broken. Items are no fun to use because tracks are often too wide and splits into two or more paths that racers are too far apart. Not to mention you rarely get fun item if you are top 3. Battle mode is completely ruined.

    AI cheats too obviously. For example you can be #1 for 2 laps and everybody seems to catch up in the last lap. Unlockables are lackluster. Ugly kart design, either too serious or too childish looking. Very unspired. Too much focus on collecting coins. Too many bowser children.

    My wife and I loved Mario Kart since Super Nintendo. It's gotten worse over the years but there were always something interesting that kept us playing. This is the first Mario Kart that my wife actually quits before we complete 100cc. Said it felt like a chore.    … Expand
  84. Stafmeister
    Jul 31, 2014
    9
    Brilliant. Best racing since Mario Kart 64. The courses are great, the new ones and the re-imaginged ones. I really wanted to give this a 10, but they appear to have been lazy with battle mode - which used to be my favourite. Where have the arenas gone?!
  85. Artimus1000
    Jul 30, 2014
    10
    If you have played previous versions of Mario Kart, "It's BAAAAAAACK!" If this is your first taste of the series, never fear. In addition to all the new goodies and first time ever features in this newest Mario Kart release. You can also relive, or try for the first time various tracks from earlier game versions. All in all it is good clean single or multi player fun for the ENTIRE family,If you have played previous versions of Mario Kart, "It's BAAAAAAACK!" If this is your first taste of the series, never fear. In addition to all the new goodies and first time ever features in this newest Mario Kart release. You can also relive, or try for the first time various tracks from earlier game versions. All in all it is good clean single or multi player fun for the ENTIRE family, unlike most "new games" the game content is meant for ALL ages. loads of fun and challenging. I love playing with my young nieces and nephews. "When I bought this to play with them I think it was the first time my sister in law said something nice to and about me!" :P… Expand
  86. nigelgrab
    Jul 27, 2014
    9
    Mario Kart has successfully made itself feel brand new, more than any prior release in the series. The gameplay is familiar yet fresh and exciting, and the anti-gravity sections actually feel good - slightly more floaty and drifty than normal, but still a joy to control. The latter goes for all the gameplay - finding your style of play and a kart combination to match it is just awesome.Mario Kart has successfully made itself feel brand new, more than any prior release in the series. The gameplay is familiar yet fresh and exciting, and the anti-gravity sections actually feel good - slightly more floaty and drifty than normal, but still a joy to control. The latter goes for all the gameplay - finding your style of play and a kart combination to match it is just awesome.
    However, the replay value is actually fairly lacking, due to a disappointing battle mode that feels tacked on and empty, and no extra modes different to past entries. So pretty much once you complete every grand prix (and mirror mode if you're into that) you're left with nothing else worthwhile.
    Despite that, where it hits the mark, Mario Kart 8 is an absolute joy to play, and is definitely worth getting a Wii U for.    … Expand
  87. SuperWooper
    Jul 26, 2014
    10
    When someone asks me why they should buy a Wii U, I always reply with "Mario Kart". Quite possibly the best Mario Kart game yet. The new anti-gravity feature was a great feature to add along with the new Koopaling characters and 3 new items. The game music is phenomenal as well as the game play.

    The only complaint I have of this game is that the battle mode only uses no battle courses.    When someone asks me why they should buy a Wii U, I always reply with "Mario Kart". Quite possibly the best Mario Kart game yet. The new anti-gravity feature was a great feature to add along with the new Koopaling characters and 3 new items. The game music is phenomenal as well as the game play.

    The only complaint I have of this game is that the battle mode only uses no battle courses. It only uses 8 courses that are used in regular racing mode, which is a huge let down for anyone who like to play battle mode.    … Expand
  88. Rahsmoove
    Jul 24, 2014
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Very great game. Normally I don't play Wii u games, but Mario's done it again. Customizable karts. From changing the wheels, switching up your parachute, to getting unique karts. They really raised the bar. If you think Mario Kart Wii raised the bar, buy a Wii U and experience the best Mario Kart there is.… Expand
  89. troi4n
    Jul 24, 2014
    10
    Amazing! The feeling of SNES and N64 Mario Karts is back! Many characters, courses and vehicles make this game the best graphic Mario Kart so far. Nothing new? Yes and no. Nintendo keeps the Mario Kart basic formula, but increments some new stuff like anti-gravity, new physics and differences between the cars and motorcycles. It is not the best Mario Kart only because we spent years andAmazing! The feeling of SNES and N64 Mario Karts is back! Many characters, courses and vehicles make this game the best graphic Mario Kart so far. Nothing new? Yes and no. Nintendo keeps the Mario Kart basic formula, but increments some new stuff like anti-gravity, new physics and differences between the cars and motorcycles. It is not the best Mario Kart only because we spent years and years playing SNES and N64, but I'm pretty sure this Mario Kart 8 will be a classic of Nintendo in a few years.… Expand
  90. FreezeBlade1220
    Jul 22, 2014
    10
    This game is a blast!!!! Racing online is fun as heck. A good multiplayer experience, and overall, a fun Mario Kart with excellent graphics, and a fun Wii U game!!!
  91. OscarG
    Jul 21, 2014
    9
    This game isn't perfect, but man is it fun! Every single feature in this game is very fun like the Single Player for example. I usually don't have friends to play with so usually I play solo and this is one of the few games in which I have a blast playing alone (lol). Single player is really fun even if you get bored of it, every once in a while is still fun. But the REAL highlight of theThis game isn't perfect, but man is it fun! Every single feature in this game is very fun like the Single Player for example. I usually don't have friends to play with so usually I play solo and this is one of the few games in which I have a blast playing alone (lol). Single player is really fun even if you get bored of it, every once in a while is still fun. But the REAL highlight of the game is... the multiplayer. Multiplayer is as fun as ever, probably even better. Multiplayer is the same as ever: 4 player chaos in creative courses with mind-boggling items and newly made anti-gravity sections. Anti-gravity is as it sounds like, karts racing on walls and upside down, its not really a HUGE thing in my opinion but its a well made new and fresh idea. Online mode is a mode where you race aginst people Worldwide, Regionally, with Friends or in Tournaments. Worldwide is where you race with people around the world, Regionally is where I assume is where you race with people from your continent, with friends is with people you have played with randomly and people in your Friend List, and Tournaments is where you race with a set amount of rules and gain points to see in which place you landed. Like I said, this game ISN'T perfect, but it is a must buy for the Wii U. This is a game for you to buy a Wii U and play a ton of hours with.… Expand
  92. RyTroup
    Jul 21, 2014
    10
    I believe the best MarioKart yet. Tons of tracks and awesome upgrades! If you want this game but don't have a Wii U, GO BUY A WII U! I promise you will not be disappointed.
  93. JOSHDILISI
    Jul 21, 2014
    8
    this game is everything to love about Mario Kart, it has great controls and is by far the most beautiful Mario kart game i've ever played. (possibly the most beautiful Mario game in general) It has great controls, a wonderful assortment of power ups that feel very fair, tons of unlockable characters and vehicle upgrades and i never found a single race track that i didn't like. Basically ithis game is everything to love about Mario Kart, it has great controls and is by far the most beautiful Mario kart game i've ever played. (possibly the most beautiful Mario game in general) It has great controls, a wonderful assortment of power ups that feel very fair, tons of unlockable characters and vehicle upgrades and i never found a single race track that i didn't like. Basically i love this game, the only thing holding it back would be the crappy battle mode... But i play Mario Kart for the racing so its no biggy still for me.… Expand
  94. Ramon4567
    Jul 21, 2014
    4
    The item balance was done perfectly in Mario Kart 7, but now, luck is your best friend in this unfair sequel. Even when you play at your best, especially in online races, you will frequently acquire coins from item boxes. Another flaw is the character roster; where is Diddy Kong and Dry Bones? Instead of giving us these original characters (and more), we get five babies, two palette swaps,The item balance was done perfectly in Mario Kart 7, but now, luck is your best friend in this unfair sequel. Even when you play at your best, especially in online races, you will frequently acquire coins from item boxes. Another flaw is the character roster; where is Diddy Kong and Dry Bones? Instead of giving us these original characters (and more), we get five babies, two palette swaps, and the seven minions for Bowser. This is the worst list of characters yet, and it would have been nice to play as different colors of Yoshi and Toad. Finally, the Battle Mode is complete garbage now; you only have eight battle courses, and they are all race tracks. I'm pretty sure you get the idea. As for the good, it's not enough to revive this ridiculous game. The visuals are indeed the best, the controls are smooth, the music is mostly fantastic, but the amount of courses should have increased from 32 to about 50. What about the gameplay? Well, it is extremely simple, and it didn't change a whole lot. I wish Mario Kart 8 was more like it's hand-held predecessor, but with more content to boot. In its current state, you will be severely disappointed, so rent it before you buy it.… Expand
  95. GodOFGamers72
    Jul 17, 2014
    9
    This Game is just a masterpiece for Wii U owners everywhere and is a must Buy. My only problem is when you are battleing somebody it just seems very broken and out of place in the Game that needs to get fixed but for that it's still a must buy!!! 9/10
  96. London_Calling
    Jul 17, 2014
    9
    Perhaps the ultimate multiplayer game. Brilliant graphics, brilliant track design, brilliant fun. The video replays of races (especially) against mates in slow motion is a joy to behold. Too good.
  97. MixableFire
    Jul 16, 2014
    10
    What can I say I thought Mario kart 7 was amazing but Mario kart 8 just blew me away so much, gravity defying, flying, drifting are just some of things that make the game amazing, but my main highlight of this game is that the mechanics and game play are perfect and only Nintendo could create a masterpiece like this. Its just so fun.
    Just go and buy the game now!!!
  98. Greenicey
    Jul 14, 2014
    10
    There's not a lot to say that hasn't already been said. This is one of those rare games that I do feel deserve a 10/10. First off, while the gameplay is extremely similar to any other recent mario kart game, the balance has been completely reworked. It's still not perfect, but hardcore gamers are bound to enjoy this almost as much as a casual one. Battle mode has been changed so that youThere's not a lot to say that hasn't already been said. This is one of those rare games that I do feel deserve a 10/10. First off, while the gameplay is extremely similar to any other recent mario kart game, the balance has been completely reworked. It's still not perfect, but hardcore gamers are bound to enjoy this almost as much as a casual one. Battle mode has been changed so that you now battle on actual tracks, it's weird, confusing at first, but eventually I warmed up to it and may play it when I'm bored of racing. As virtually every other reviewer has stated this game is absolutely gorgeous. It definitely rivals anything the other systems have out there currently, the zoom in shots especially exemplify this. Nintendo has never really been one for graphically powerful systems or games, but they definitely should be it's that good. Will this game save the Wii U? Probably not, but it sure is the kick in the pants that it needs right now.… Expand
  99. MW1AA2Gs
    Jul 14, 2014
    10
    Mario Kart to me at least is a series which with every new release they completely annihilate the last one and make it so that there's no reason to ever back track (the exception being super circuit) to a previous title and yet there are still a few things in the old games which keep them in most Nintendo fans libraries even when they're more then ten years old... And guess what they didMario Kart to me at least is a series which with every new release they completely annihilate the last one and make it so that there's no reason to ever back track (the exception being super circuit) to a previous title and yet there are still a few things in the old games which keep them in most Nintendo fans libraries even when they're more then ten years old... And guess what they did it again. Mario Kart 8 does a lot of new things for the series like zero gravity (which by the way isn't disorienting and unbelievably smooth), the new crazy eight item (which can really help catch you up if you messed up and ended up in the back), the horn (which FINALLY ends the terror of the blue shell... most of the time), and tons of more cart customizations. In terms of presentation it is perfect... literally, the tracks look unbelievable and the music is beautiful on some tracks. The character roster is great with tons of new characters and old ones (but does feel a little lazy sometimes). Overall the game is unbelievably well made and reminds me why we should always expect good games from Nintendo.… Expand
  100. ricklongo
    Jul 14, 2014
    8
    Coming in at a time when the Wii U needs heavy-hitting powerhouses to turn its fortunes around, Mario Kart 8 is breath of fresh multiplayer air in the console's growing line of must-have titles. The "killer app" title would fit quite well here; it's not the absolute best game on the Wii U right now, but it's certainly the one with the largest widespread appeal.

    As anyone can immediately    Coming in at a time when the Wii U needs heavy-hitting powerhouses to turn its fortunes around, Mario Kart 8 is breath of fresh multiplayer air in the console's growing line of must-have titles. The "killer app" title would fit quite well here; it's not the absolute best game on the Wii U right now, but it's certainly the one with the largest widespread appeal.

    As anyone can immediately tell, this is a game with great attention to detail. The pristine HD graphics are amazing, and they're made even better by the extensive replay options after each race. You can watch as characters full of personality laugh at each other, challenge each other, stare at each other in disdain. It's funny, it's quirky, and it's exactly the sort of thing that makes Nintendo games memorable.

    The single-player mode is fun enough, but it lacks in secrets, cameos, "wow" moments, and the assorted mix of cool stuff that makes solo experiences memorable. It's nice both as an evergreen game for quick-burst sessions (something the Wii U lacked beforehand) and for getting the gist of controls in order to not embarrass yourself in the mode that is real reason this game is great: the multiplayer.

    As anyone who ever played any Mario Kart before will attest, this is the ultimate local multiplayer experience right here. It's fun, it's chaotic, but it's also very nuanced and incredibly reliant on skill. It's the sort of game anyone can pick up and play, especially in lower difficulties, but it takes quite a while to master. Online multiplayer also impresses: it's the best it's ever been in any Nintendo game, with robust tournament options. The one letdown is battle mode, which takes place in actual tracks rather than custom-built arenas. Let's hope future downloadable content fixes this, as this is a mode that used to take quite a chunk of my gaming time in previous instalments.

    As one of Nintendo's premier franchises, Mario Kart once again impresses and offers one of the most universal reasons yet to get a Wii U. The quality is definitely here, and the focus on multiplayer means it's a game that will likely last for the entire console generation, making it a very easy buy.

    Rating: 8.5    … Expand
Page:

Awards & Rankings

4
#4 Best Wii U Game of 2014
2
#2 Most Discussed Wii U Game of 2014
4
#4 Most Shared Wii U Game of 2014

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
88

Generally favorable reviews - based on 82 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 80 out of 82
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 82
  3. Negative: 0 out of 82
  1. GameCritics
    Sep 18, 2014
    80
    Mario Kart 8 is pretty great in many ways, but undoubtedly moreso with a collection of friends to play with, or when facing off against other players online.
    Read full review
  2. CD-Action
    Aug 25, 2014
    85
    No revolution here, but still it’s an absolute must-have for every Wii U owner. [08/2014, p.68]
  3. Universo Nintendo
    Jul 31, 2014
    95
    A beautiful and fun racing game, which uses the possibilities offered by its host platform to emphasize and renew the truly universal appeal of the series.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »