Mario Kart

Title Mario Kart
System Wii
Creators Nintendo
UPC 045496901004
Copyright Date 2008
Interest Age 5+
Rating Everyone
Genre Video Game: Racing
Plot Summary
Pick a player, pick a car or a motorcycle, pick a track and start your engines! This classic racing game first debuted in 1992 and is now available through the Wii gaming system. The concept is simple: race against other characters, either played by friends or not, around various tracks and try to win. Gain offensive and defensive advantages by driving through boxes and coins and don't fall off the track!
Critical Evaluation
This classic game has reached a new plateau with the use of the Wii controller which fits into a steering wheel (though it can be played with just the controller). With other racing games on other systems, one uses either a four-direction cross pad or a joystick to control th e car, but the Wii controller allowes the player to turn based on the rotation of the wheel - which makes it feel more like you are really driving. This is a game that is fun for the whole family. It's easy enough that even grandma will pick it up quickly and a teenager will still find it exciting because of the different skills you can learn throughout the game and the competitive nature of racing games in general. Teens will also like figuring out how to unlock the different tracks and secret areas that are not immediate apparent. A great recommendtion for any teen, particularly those that have parents who don't like them to play violent games.
Reader’s Annotation
Mario, Luigi, the Princess and Toadstool are back in this fun racing game that will have you saying Wiiiiiiiiiii!
Curriculum Ties None
Gametalking Ideas
1. Do a summary of the game, urging your audience to check it out for themselves to see how well they can drive.
Challenge Issues
None
Why did I include this game?
I am a big Wii fan and wanted to include video games that can be enjoyed by the whole family.