Not only is this one of the best SNES games ever, but it single-handedly created an entire new genre of video games! Instead of aiming for realism, Super Mario Kart strips racing down to its essense with simple yet fun go-cart action. The racers are classic Nintendo characters, each with a variety of speed and handling capabilities. Thanks to some marvelous SNES \"mode 7\" effects, the ground moves and rotates smoothly underneath your cart, conveying a sense of speed. Although the tracks are totally flat, their textures range from smooth, to wood, to gravel. Tracks also contain speed boosts, traps, ramps, and power-ups. Turtle shell power-ups serves missiles shoot at your competitors. One power-up causes your fellow racers to <i>shrink</i> for a few seconds. Not only does this look hilarious, but it gives you the opportunity to squash them as well! The single-player mode is challenging enough, but the two-player split screen is even better. The outcome of each races is usually in doubt, but never feels unfair or cheap. An innovative battle mode is also available that lets players fire shells at each other in open arenas. In typical Nintendo fashion, a cute trophy presentation screen celebrates the winners of each game. Innovative and fun, Super Mario Kart is a must-have for any serious SNES collector.
Super Mario Kart