Information

The popular racing series returns for a new installment on the DS. While it only uses standard buttons, and no microphone, the game still takes advantage of the DS's abilities. The bottom screen is used as a map, providing you with a detailed overview of the area, as well as showing what rank each character is in, and what items they are carrying. More important is the Wi-Fi functionality, allowing you to race against players from around the world.

The main game is a lap-based racing battle. Collect items to help speed you ahead, or knock your opponents out. Clear three laps to complete the stage, and you will be given points based on your ranking. Clear all four stages in a Cup with the most points to win. As well as the all-new stages, there is a selection of stages from past Mario Kart games as well.

As well as the traditional multiplayer battle mode (wireless single-cart play, or against the computer), you also have access to a new mission mode, where you can test your skills with a Kart in short stages and boss battles.

Going online gives you access to all of the characters you have available in the game, and a wide selection of tracks. You can play against friends, or choose to play strangers locally, continentally or worldwide.

Cameos

R.O.B.

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One of the unlockable characters is R.O.B., the Robotic Operating Buddy NES accessory. In the Japanese version, ROB is "Famicom Robot" and appears in his original Japanese colours.

The ROB-BLS kart is based on R.O.B.'s Stack-Up set, with trays surrounding him. The ROB-LGS kart appears to stand for "R.O.B. Legs".

Cameo Karts

Several of the karts are references to other games:

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Clown Car Copter

Bowser's Clown Car Copter is based on the Koopa Clown Car that he used in Super Mario World and Paper Mario.

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Rambi Rider

Donkey Kong's Rambi Rider car is based on Rambi, Donkey Kong's animal buddy from Donkey Kong Country.

Nintendo DS Battle Course

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One of the Battle courses takes place on a giant Nintendo DS.

Super Mario Bros. 3 Icons

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When you start the game, the icon that appears next to the 1-player mode is Mario's head from Super Mario Bros. 3. When the multiplayer game is loading, Mario and Luigi's 8-bit heads both appear, overlapping each other.

Wario Stadium

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In Wario Stadium, 8-bit sprites of a Super Mushroom and Star Man from Super Mario Bros., as well as the NES font, all appear on displays around the course.

Shroom Ridge

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On the Shroom Ridge track, the trucks feature sprites of Cheep Cheep from Super Mario Bros. 3 and Berries from Super Mario World on the side.

Mario Series » Mario Kart Series

• Super Mario Kart
• Mario Kart 64
• Mario Kart: Super Circuit
• Mario Kart: Double Dash!!
• Mario Kart DS
• Mario Kart Wii
• Mario Kart 7