If you've played any of the previous Mario Kart games then you know it is pretty much a sure bet. Mario Kart 8 for Wii U does not disappoint. Just like all the previous games bearing the title, this version is a fun and simple car racing game.
In this version the karts go upside down, on walls, under water and do a bit more flying than in games past. There are more items to get to help thwart your enemies. There are several new courses and new spins on old ones. The kart customization are on a whole new level and there are new characters to use. All in all there is enough new material to make it different and fun, but not so much is new that the game has to be completely relearned.
It can be played using the Wii U Controller - you know, that big one that has a screen right on it, and regular Wii-motes with or without the nun chuck.
I've tested this version on several grown men, a 4 year old boy, a 5 year old girl, and a 7 year old boy. Oh, and also a mother of three. The guys all really loved it, and the girls all considered it good enough to play for a race or two.
Mario Kart 8 makes a great gift for anyone who has a Wii U. And Wii U makes a great gift for anyone who doesn't have one but enjoys games once in awhile or all the time.
