Mario Kart Wii

 Wii
User Score
8.5

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1245 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,039 out of 1245
  2. Mixed: 155 out of 1245
  3. Negative: 51 out of 1245
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  1. HettyC.
    Apr 24, 2008
    9
    This is a fun game and the best driving game so far one of the bad things about this game is the fact that it is really hard to control the cars. all of the mario games are good and nothing under.
  2. Sambo
    Apr 25, 2008
    7
    It's an okay title that was never likely to live up to the hype. I didn't believe the hype, having disliked Double Dash. And my expectations for this game were low, including the online multiplayer. First up, the single player mode is same old same old. But to compound that problem the cups feature the same tracks, making it three times as dull to complete. The addition of bikes It's an okay title that was never likely to live up to the hype. I didn't believe the hype, having disliked Double Dash. And my expectations for this game were low, including the online multiplayer. First up, the single player mode is same old same old. But to compound that problem the cups feature the same tracks, making it three times as dull to complete. The addition of bikes is stupid and the 100cc bikes seem slower than their 50cc kart counterparts. After completing the 50cc cups you get a lengthy and unskippable credits sequence which seems odd when you're only one third the way through. As for multiplayer, in battle mode it's two teams of up to 6 versus each other in balloon mode or coin collecting. It's fun for the most part, but would be SO much better if it were free for all or four teams of three. Also, the lack of an ability to communicate properly with the people you are playing against means there is really little point to it all. The fun of mariokart was always about having a laugh with those you play with. Not being able to chat with your team mates means it's a very lonely existence still. Then there is the Wii wheel. It takes only one word to sum this up. GARBAGE. Okay, some might like it, but it's largely pointless. It over complicates the controls and can be flaky to use. When on a bike it also is unnatural. Stick to the nunchuk and wii-mote. Ultimately, it's an okay game that is nowhere near worth the money some have paid for it. I'm glad mine was only £20 on pre-order.… Expand
  3. ChrisB.
    Apr 28, 2008
    9
    Using the racing wheel is much more fun than I imagined it would be. There is a strong feeling of actually being behind the wheel that I didn't expect. Playing with two or more people is a bit difficult because sometimes you can't see much above/below you and therefore don't know what to do. For example the Rainbow Road track is very difficult with a split screen because Using the racing wheel is much more fun than I imagined it would be. There is a strong feeling of actually being behind the wheel that I didn't expect. Playing with two or more people is a bit difficult because sometimes you can't see much above/below you and therefore don't know what to do. For example the Rainbow Road track is very difficult with a split screen because when going up and down all the "rainbow" hills you can't see what's ahead of you.… Expand
  4. PeterJ.
    Apr 28, 2008
    9
    This was my first time ever playing any of the Mario Karts. I found it an awesome game, and the wheel is surprisingly very accurate and easy to use.
  5. KyleU.
    Apr 28, 2008
    9
    Tis game is plain and simiple the best mario kart installment at this point. people that have played the prior games may have complants but the addition of using a wii wheel to play makes the game even better.
  6. TIMTIML
    Apr 28, 2008
    10
    The online mode works with out any lag. Lots of different options are a plus. I'm giving this a 10 because I can't find anything bad to say about it.
  7. DwightB.
    Apr 29, 2008
    9
    Great Game - - little heavy on the items but a great game none the less!
  8. JordiR.
    Apr 3, 2008
    10
    The best Mario Kart ever playing.
  9. KateT
    May 11, 2008
    5
    Being a huge fan of the Mario Kart series, I was definitely excited when I first bought this game. However, after playing it for awhile now, I realize that this game is definitely the weakest in the series. I had quite a few problems with the game, some of them being: -The items: It seems this time around, the items are used all too frequently, and it's very annoying when you're Being a huge fan of the Mario Kart series, I was definitely excited when I first bought this game. However, after playing it for awhile now, I realize that this game is definitely the weakest in the series. I had quite a few problems with the game, some of them being: -The items: It seems this time around, the items are used all too frequently, and it's very annoying when you're playing. For instance, getting hit by red shells non-stop, and those damn flying shells that hit you when you're in first place. Also, the favouritsm with the items is appaulling, if you're doing well (ie. the top three..) then you get horrible items like bananas and green shells. When you're in last, you get awesome items. It just isn't fair. -The Music: I remember when each Mario Kart level used to have distinct music that I would love to hear when I was playing the game. (Rainbow Road, anyone?) But it all seems a bit lost in translation here. Instead, we get o hear characters make annoying noises, such as "WHOO HOO!" and "Yeahhhhhh!" It's just plain irritating, and makes gameplay all the more difficult. And last, but not least, my last complaint is that the game seems to rely too much on a gimmick (the steering with the Wiimote) and, in turn the levels are just not that fun. Some levels are loaded with things that can hit you, you can fall off of, while others are just so boring you'll want to fall asleep while playing them. I also wanted to enjoy the Retro levels, but it seems like they just haaaaaad to update those too. Overall, I find myself not really wanting to go back and play this game, but rather whip out my Gamecube or Nintendo 64 to play some real Mario Kart. So, if you're a fan of the series check this game out, if not, just don't bother with it.… Expand
  10. Brandon
    May 1, 2008
    10
    As with any Nintendo game, fun is the name of the game. I've had a ton of fun playing this game thus far. The most brilliant part of this game is the online play option. No longer do you have to wait for someone to come over and play. It's a simple game, but that's why it works so wonderfully!
  11. jj
    May 3, 2008
    10
    Actually [anonymous], i played it with someone once and they couldn't do the races at all! But a great game nonetheless.
  12. Ian
    May 3, 2008
    9
    Gameplay-wise, it's absolutely wonderful, supported by an awesome new powerslide, stunts, fantastic tracks, amazing online play, and the most fun way to play Kart ever - the Wii wheel. Mode variety and customization seem lacking though. Altogether however, it's a strong contender for being the best Mario Kart yet.
  13. LondonCalling
    May 3, 2008
    9
    Never played MK on any platform before and was really impressed. The wheel is harder to use than nunchuk + wiimote but twice as much fun. Online is completely brilliant and will keep this game going for a long time. The Friends Room is a bit clunky so always find it better to join them in a race. Love it.
  14. LucasC.
    May 4, 2008
    10
    WOW!! nice job on this one! need more like it.
  15. Katiel
    May 4, 2008
    9
    I love this game, but I wish it had the random selection feature like MarioKart double dash.
  16. JesseS.
    May 5, 2008
    9
    It's a lot of fun. It would have gotten a 10 if the network connections were a bit more stable. It really sucks to get disconnected from a game and lose a lot of rankings when there's really nothing you can do to prevent it.
  17. LS.
    May 5, 2008
    10
    I love all the people talking about how some of the levels don't seem very new. That's because they are retro levels you dumb twits. I for one love the retro levels. As does my brother, fiancee, and about everyone else I've had come over to my house to play Mario Kart since we bought it last Tuesday. I've played every single Mario Kart since the SNES and have had a ton I love all the people talking about how some of the levels don't seem very new. That's because they are retro levels you dumb twits. I for one love the retro levels. As does my brother, fiancee, and about everyone else I've had come over to my house to play Mario Kart since we bought it last Tuesday. I've played every single Mario Kart since the SNES and have had a ton of fun with this one. As far as the online MP goes; it's not surprising that Nintendo stayed away from online voices since the era of XBL idiots spewing racial slurs, profanity, and 'your mom' jokes. I can't help but laugh at all the people talking about 'skill' in a Mario Kart game. Do the rest of us a favor and get over yourselves. Mario Kart as a series runs on the fact that the game is random and whimsical. If you wanted annoying realistic BS crap...play Gran Tourismo. That game is sooo terribly bad that the people who have no sense of fun like the complainers here must love it. The last part. Why are you complaining about the Wii Wheel? Is it the only way to play the game? Um, no. You can still play with the Wii-mote and Nunchuck. Honestly, I like using the wheel because it makes the game harder for me when I'm playing against people that haven't played before. If I were to use the Wii-mote and Nunchuck I'd be pulling off power-slides and mini turbos the entire race. The way I see it the Wii-wheel offers another way to play, and a slight handicap for the veteran gamers to overcome. I bought GTA4 on the same day as Mario Kart Wii and haven't even opened GTA4 yet.… Expand
  18. UweP.l
    May 5, 2008
    9
    This Mario Kart has the best racing mechanics in the series yet, and the online mode is just superb, bar the lack of customization that is available in offline multiplayer, such as the option to select how big a part the items will play. It would've been sweet to be able to get rid of that blue shell online. But in spite of the frustration that this can cause, the game is still This Mario Kart has the best racing mechanics in the series yet, and the online mode is just superb, bar the lack of customization that is available in offline multiplayer, such as the option to select how big a part the items will play. It would've been sweet to be able to get rid of that blue shell online. But in spite of the frustration that this can cause, the game is still bloody superb online and with friends, and a great, not to mention fair, challenge in the time trials.… Expand
  19. JamesO.
    May 9, 2008
    7
    The new characters and updated retro levels make this a great addition to the Mario Kart lineup. However, the somewhat watered down battle mode and over dependence of items keeps it from being at the top of the best of 2008.
  20. RoaldM
    May 9, 2008
    8
    It's a very good and addicting game, and the new online mode makes is even more awesome! But the grand prix is a bit annoying, 11 enemies which keep throwing powerups at you, getting a blue shield+pow block+lightning in your face just before the finish line sucks. Also I like that you can see your ranking, so you can see if you're good in the game or not.
  21. BrianB
    Jun 9, 2008
    9
    I thought the loss of a double team was a disapontment, but the gameplay got me back. Even though I agree wayne g about the CPU in 1500cc and Mirror, online is way better than Brawl's, the bikes is a wonderful addition to the game. Also, the trick system is also a good improvement to the formula. But, what also kinda, not that much, dissaponited me was that not all the tracks were I thought the loss of a double team was a disapontment, but the gameplay got me back. Even though I agree wayne g about the CPU in 1500cc and Mirror, online is way better than Brawl's, the bikes is a wonderful addition to the game. Also, the trick system is also a good improvement to the formula. But, what also kinda, not that much, dissaponited me was that not all the tracks were new. Still, it is a good game for vets and newbies.… Expand
  22. KeithP
    Apr 10, 2009
    10
    Mario Kart Wii is a really great game. It's really fun to play. I can see why the game got a lot of good reviews and why it sold a lot of copies. I give Mario Kart Wii a 10 out of 10.
  23. Tuah
    Oct 14, 2008
    9
    The Mario Kart series is always amazingly fun to play, and Mario Kart Wii is no different. All the new characters are fun to have, and 12-contestant races are a lot more exciting than the 8-player ones have been. The Wiimote/Wheel controls are something I greatly enjoy, and I probably won't play with classic or Gamecube controllers often. The fact that there's an option makes The Mario Kart series is always amazingly fun to play, and Mario Kart Wii is no different. All the new characters are fun to have, and 12-contestant races are a lot more exciting than the 8-player ones have been. The Wiimote/Wheel controls are something I greatly enjoy, and I probably won't play with classic or Gamecube controllers often. The fact that there's an option makes this a much more fun game for all. I actually enjoy the fact that snaking has been taken out. While experienced gamers should obviously be better than newbies, snaking turned a gap into a canyon. The biggest problem this game suffers from is all the items. No matter whether I'm in 1st, 2nd, 6th or 11th, I still get pelted with all sorts of items. The POW block is completely overpowered, and red and blue shells are simply far too common. When paired with the poor catch-up AI, it's a setup for player failure, regardless of skill. Why can't I auto-catch-up? With items or poor AI, there will at least be a little balance. With both, the scales are tipped far to the computer. Online play is simply amazing. Lastly, to Wayne G, who gave the game a 2: The graphics are almost exactly the same as Double Dash. Most of the models have been reused. You know those characters from Super Mario 64 DS? They're exactly the same as in Double Dash and Kart Wii. Looking at Double Dash's lighting and shading techniques, I still notice a lot of the polygon edges, which are very well hidden in Wii.… Expand
  24. JC
    Oct 22, 2008
    8
    I would have to say that anyone expecting "good" graphics in a game should not be judging anything with the word Mario in it. Nintendo puts less emphasis on Graphics and more emphasis on gameplay. Therefore I dont judge nintendo games on graphics. Pros - Unlike other posts, in my belief the items carry substantial pickup, from the Black rocket and the Pow to Star Power and the Red Shell. I would have to say that anyone expecting "good" graphics in a game should not be judging anything with the word Mario in it. Nintendo puts less emphasis on Graphics and more emphasis on gameplay. Therefore I dont judge nintendo games on graphics. Pros - Unlike other posts, in my belief the items carry substantial pickup, from the Black rocket and the Pow to Star Power and the Red Shell. This alows players, usually punished by top speed to still compete with faster players. COns - However, it seems that if you keep first place for long enoh, the computer will totally wreck you. I have had many a time being within a few carts of the finish line and being overthrown with spied shells, pows and red shells and get put back to 4 to possibly even 9th on one level. However, my 4th place Spike shell gain was rather interesting. Level designs are quite distinct, as there are 16 new levels as well as 16 levels from the old games, including a few from the SNES, which brings back memories. The online function is great, but isnt fair for players who dont play the single player game simply because they have neither the carts or bikes/characters to compete with die hard fans. This puts some players at a full disadvantage. I have to admitthat some of the souds/voices of characters have become childish, but what would be expected from companies that normally be designed for a younger age. I think it is not reasonable to realise that this game was not designed primarily for adults. However, i dont find the single player 150cc as challenging as others have, being as how 6/8 cups resulted in golds on attempt 1 which was rather a dissapointment for me.… Expand
  25. JoeyB.
    Jan 5, 2008
    10
    I have played every mario kart ever and loved every single one! This game is going to be great, no matter what anyone says!
  26. JamesC.
    Feb 23, 2008
    8
    A game purely made for multiplayer. If you are looking for a robust single player racing experience then mario kart is not for you, everyone else should definitely at least take a look.
  27. CraigP.
    Apr 11, 2008
    10
    I've been a fan of Mario Kart since the SNES and although the DS version was great, this is better, it's just so much fun and as frenetic as ever. I can't understand any negative reaction to the game, I was able to play the Mario Kart arcade version and this feel pretty close, but it's the online mode that really makes this game great. Forget teh driving games that go I've been a fan of Mario Kart since the SNES and although the DS version was great, this is better, it's just so much fun and as frenetic as ever. I can't understand any negative reaction to the game, I was able to play the Mario Kart arcade version and this feel pretty close, but it's the online mode that really makes this game great. Forget teh driving games that go for realism, if you want to feel like you're karting, this is the only driving game that makes me feel like I'm driving...except for the shells obviously!… Expand
  28. JohnM.
    Apr 13, 2008
    8
    [SPOILER] Its Mario Kart, it plays like mario kart, it feels like mario kart, its pure mario kart, and its got the best online features on Wii ever, the friends is finally implemented correctly the amount of unlockables is fantastic theres only 2 problems, and ill start with the dumb one that doesn't really matter first, the graphics, theyre no where near great, this game has kinda [SPOILER] Its Mario Kart, it plays like mario kart, it feels like mario kart, its pure mario kart, and its got the best online features on Wii ever, the friends is finally implemented correctly the amount of unlockables is fantastic theres only 2 problems, and ill start with the dumb one that doesn't really matter first, the graphics, theyre no where near great, this game has kinda been rushed and quickly put together, and the graphics are the only giveaway of this, they look like double dash, although the game runs damn smooth, with no lagging or freezing (online or off) the wii can do more, the best looking character is an unlockable **spoiler** rosalina, shes just been copied and pasted straight from galaxy which i wish is what they did with the others, and the second real problem, the offline battle mode, they didnt really think people would still be playing this offline i suppose as the battleode is in teams no free for all sadly, although online the battle mode is still fantastic and the new points ranking system is brilliantly implimented and addictive and online matches are quick to join and lag free, get this game, sure its not perfect, and mario kart ds is better offline, but online this is the dogs b*llocks, perhaps some more offline features and some nicer graphics and this woulda been GREAT, its still essential, that and the wii wheel is awesome,… Expand
  29. JoshC.
    Apr 19, 2008
    9
    Incredible, me and my girlfriend are massive fans of the series, and I've played every version since the SNES to death; the controls work perfectly once you get used to them, all the karts have totally different feels to them and the bikes, which I expected to suck a big one, are incredibly fun and the tricks work fairly well. The online is great fun and probably the best we'll Incredible, me and my girlfriend are massive fans of the series, and I've played every version since the SNES to death; the controls work perfectly once you get used to them, all the karts have totally different feels to them and the bikes, which I expected to suck a big one, are incredibly fun and the tricks work fairly well. The online is great fun and probably the best we'll be able to get out of nintendo this generation. Connecting to a game takes a little while but once your in one load times are fairly short. The only problem with this, and it's one thats occurred in all mario karts, is the lack of new levels; 16 tracks is just not enough to be honest, and packing in another 16 old ones doesn't do enough to mix it up. All the same though, this is an incredible game and unless you didn't like the past games in the series you should definitely give it a try.… Expand
  30. GaryT.
    Apr 23, 2008
    9
    Best mariokart to date. Excellent online feature, bikes are very good. Overall worth getting
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Awards & Rankings

18
#18 Best Wii Game of 2008
2
#2 Most Discussed Wii Game of 2008
5
#5 Most Shared Wii Game of 2008

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
82

Generally favorable reviews - based on 73 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 65 out of 73
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 73
  3. Negative: 1 out of 73
  1. Nintendo Power
    90
    With more features, modes and multiplayer options than ever before, fans should be revved up to get behind the wheel. [May 2008, p.86]
  2. Edge Magazine
    60
    Having sacrificed racing integrity in "Double Dash" to side with social silliness, Nintendo has turned 180 degrees into an awkward halfway house. [May 2008, p.86]
  3. DarkZero
    80
    Then there is the Wii Wheel peripheral itself, which if you did not already know is just a plastic housing for the Wiimote. I have to admit though it is a well made bit of plastic, and is not only smarter looking than the uninspired Wii Zapper, but also more ergonomic to hold. Unexpectedly it is very easy to use.
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