Category Review: Video Games As a video game enthusiast, I have always been fascinated by the world of Mario. From his iconic red hat to his signature overalls, everything about this beloved character screams fun and adventure. And when it comes to video games, there are few franchises that can match the success and popularity of Mario Kart. In this review, I will be taking a closer look at some of the best Mario Kart games available on various platforms. From classic consoles like the Nintendo DS and Switch to newer releases like Super Mario Brothers: Trapped in the Perilous Pit, there is something for everyone when it comes to these beloved racing games. Mario Kart DS - The Classic Game That Never Gets Old One of my all-time favorite video games, Mario Kart DS was released back in 2005 and has been a staple of the gaming world ever since. With its iconic characters like Mario, Luigi, Yoshi, and Peach, players can race through various courses while collecting coins and power-ups along the way. One of the things that sets Mario Kart DS apart from other racing games is its unique gameplay mechanics. Players have to use both hands on the Nintendo DS controller to steer their karts and control their speed, which adds an extra layer of challenge and excitement to the game. Additionally, the ability to play with up to four players locally or online via Wi-Fi makes this game even more fun and engaging. The Themes - A Diverse Range of Courses Another aspect that sets Mario Kart DS apart from other racing games is its diverse range of courses. From classic tracks like Toadstool Mushroom Kingdom to new additions like the Luigi's Mansion course, there is something for everyone in this game. And with the ability to customize your karts and characters, players can truly make the game their own. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe - The Ultimate Mario Kart Experience Released back in 2015 on the Nintendo Switch, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is widely regarded as one of the best video games of all time. With its stunning graphics and smooth gameplay mechanics, players can race through various courses while collecting coins and power-ups along the way. One of the things that sets Mario Kart 8 Deluxe apart from other racing games is its ability to play with up to eight players locally or online via Nintendo Switch Online. Additionally, the game features a wide range of characters and karts for players to choose from, making it easy to find your favorite and customize it to suit your playing style. Mario Kart 8 (Cloudtop Cruise Theme) - A Unique Take on Classic Courses Another great Mario Kart game is the Cloudtop Cruise theme version of Mario Kart 8, which was released back in 2017 as part of the Nintendo Switch Online service. This version features a unique take on classic courses like Toadstool Mushroom Kingdom and Yoshi's Island, with players racing through the clouds instead of the ground. The ability to play this game online with up to eight other players adds an extra layer of excitement and competition, making it even more fun and engaging than the original version. Additionally, the unique take on classic courses makes this game stand out from other Mario Kart games and offers a fresh perspective on these beloved tracks. Mario Kart 64 - A Classic Game That Still Holds Up Today One of the earliest Mario Kart games, Mario Kart 64 was released back in 1996 for the Nintendo 64 console. While it may not have the same level of graphics and gameplay mechanics as newer releases, it still holds up today thanks to its iconic characters, courses, and gameplay mechanics. One of the things that sets Mario Kart 64 apart from other racing games is its unique take on power-ups. Players can collect items like mushrooms and stars to increase their speed or invincibility, adding an extra layer of excitement and strategy to the game. Additionally, the ability to play with up to four players locally makes this game even more fun and engaging than it already was. Mario Kart (Kalimari Desert Theme) - A Unique Take on Classic Courses Another great Mario Kart game is the Kalimari Desert theme version of the classic game, which was released back in 2017 as part of the Nintendo Switch Online service. This version features a unique take on classic courses like Toadstool Mushroom Kingdom and Yoshi's Island, with players racing through the desert instead of the ground. The ability to play this game online with up to eight other players adds an extra layer of excitement and competition, making it even more fun and engaging than the original version. Additionally, the unique take on classic courses makes this game stand out from other Mario Kart games and offers a fresh perspective on these beloved tracks. Mario Kart (Battle Theme) [8-Bit Computer Game Version] - A Classic Battle Mode Game One of my favorite aspects of Mario Kart is the battle mode, where players can engage in thrilling battles with their friends instead of racing through courses. The 8-bit computer game version of this classic game offers a unique take on this popular mode, with players battling it out in arenas filled with obstacles and power-ups. The ability to play this game online with up to eight other players adds an extra layer of excitement and competition, making it even more fun and engaging than the original version. Additionally, the unique take on classic battle mode makes this game stand out from other Mario Kart games and offers a fresh perspective on this beloved mode. Super Mario Brothers: Trapped in the Perilous Pit - A Classic Game That Still Holds Up Today One of the earliest Super Mario games, Super Mario Brothers: Trapped in the Perilous Pit was released back in 1985 for the NES console. While it may not have the same level of graphics and gameplay mechanics as newer releases, it still holds up today thanks to its iconic characters, levels, and gameplay mechanics. One of the things that sets Super Mario Brothers: Trapped in the Perilous Pit apart from other video games is its unique take on platforming. Players have to navigate through various levels filled with obstacles and enemies while collecting coins and power-ups along the way. Additionally, the ability to play with up to two players locally makes this game even more fun and engaging than it already was. Conclusion: A Diverse Range of Games for All Ages In conclusion, Mario Kart is one of the most beloved video game franchises of all time, and there are plenty of games available on various platforms that cater to players of all ages. From classic consoles like the Nintendo DS and Switch to newer releases like Super Mario Brothers: Trapped in the Perilous Pit, there is something for everyone when it comes to these beloved racing games. Whether you're a fan of classic courses or unique takes on familiar tracks, there are plenty of Mario Kart games available that will keep you entertained for hours on end.