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[Davey Cakes]

Already left me and my friends "game roulette". Doesn't have the stayng power of the other titles. I dunno if this is because the weak roster, item balance, dull (IMO) new levels or what. Just isn't being played anymore...

You can drop the "IMO" in there but it doesn't mean your opinion isn't insane.

MK8's tracks are amazing.

I can actually agree with peoples' items-balance, battle mode, and single player woes. In those areas, MK8 could use SERIOUS improving.

But if there's one thing that MK8 gets almost perfectly right, it's the track design. This is why I'm really excited that 16 DLC tracks are on the way.

Vast improvements to Retro Tracks are nice as well.

 

[Josh5890]

It's my favorite Mario Kart game since Mario Kart 64.

My biggest beef with the game is all of the baby characters. There are plenty of characters within the Mario universe that they could use instead.

 

[Dr. Kitty Muffins]

The biggest problem with it is the lack of content. It needs more modes and options, and a better roster. The foundation is rock solid though, tons of fun.

Yes, the sea of same-y characters is maddening to look at.

 

[Captain Europe]

You mean the part where you can't even race unless you get into first place the first 15 seconds of the race and the rest of the time in 1st is like a Time Trial where nothing happens? Yeah, it's so meaty. I love Green Shells that influence their direction to hit you, Red Shells that lag into you and Mushrooms that don't help you catch up once you've fallen behind.

Get better at the game or stop playing it if this pisses you off so much. It's not like past MK games were that different regarding items.

It's my favorite Mario Kart game since Mario Kart 64.

My biggest beef with the game is all of the baby characters. There are plenty of characters within the Mario universe that they could use instead.

The game needs to be sold to kids as well, and kids love the babies, cat Peach, tanooki Mario etc...

 

[chaosblade]

I feel like the base gameplay and track design is by far the best in the series. I've played all the console Mario Kart games and all of them were fun but ultimately throw-away experiences. Beat everything, unlock everything, done. Little multiplayer here and there but it was never something I really wanted to go back to.

Then MK8. I probably put more time into that in the first few months after release than I put into every Mario Kart game prior.

It definitely has issues though. It is extremely content-light. I'm not sore about the lack of a true Battle Mode but that certainly would have helped. Played local multiplayer in MK8's battle mode once and we were all like "are they serious with this crap?" And adding something other than just Grand Prix and Time Trial for single player would go a long way, even if it's nothing massive or complicated.

Balance is a mess. Why am I getting single mushrooms in the bottom 4? Why do I get almost nothing but coins in first when I already have 10? Why are lighter characters so bad? There is definitely a lot they could do to tweak the game and make it better. Bikes also have a slight inherent disadvantage due to the whole hopping thing.

They don't seem to be interested in fixing anything, just adding more, so I guess it (hopefully) gives them something to improve on in the next iteration. I really hope they stick with the antigravity mechanic though, that really added a LOT to the track design in my opinion.

 

[blame space]

so people still play in the GAF rooms?

 

[M3d10n]

I haven't played it that much when I bought it months ago, but last week I took my Wii U to work and we play local multiplayer on lunch break nearly every day. Man, local is still the best way to experience MK, it's a blast.

 

[Telephoto999]

So did anyone touch on the 59FPS bug? To some it might not bother but its very noticeable on my 60" Vizio. It doesn't really take away from the game (its damn near perfect) but I feel it's not an issue with the power of the hardware so much as it is a glitch with the way the engine handles Vsync.

 

[TheBear]

Just give me a Block Fort map for multiplayer DLC and Im good.

Still at a loss as to why they omitted a proper battle mode

 

[SparkTR]

I really like it, but I'm not sure about them adding non-Mario characters into the mix.

 

[FunkyMunkey]

Get better at the game or stop playing it if this pisses you off so much. It's not like past MK games were that different regarding items.

I'm great at the game and it's still stupid that getting 1st quickly often results in racing alone for the rest of the race. Just because you can objectively say that it's a stupid byproduct of the item/coin system doesn't mean you suck at the game. What a giant leap in logic.

Balance is a mess. Why am I getting single mushrooms in the bottom 4? Why do I get almost nothing but coins in first when I already have 10? Why are lighter characters so bad? There is definitely a lot they could do to tweak the game and make it better. Bikes also have a slight inherent disadvantage due to the whole hopping thing.

So that you can maintain your 1/2 lap lead over 2nd place even after getting hit by multiple items, of course! It's the way it's meant to be according to some here.

 

[Trigonometrize.]

Amazing game... except the coin item. The item itself doesn't even need to exist, let alone being in first getting it all the f'ing time.

 

[SoraanTribal]

I really hope they stick with the antigravity mechanic though, that really added a LOT to the track design in my opinion.

I agree - I really want them to keep it because it helped create some of the best track designs in the series. I have a feeling it might be one of those things that completely drop after one game though (like Double Dash's dual racers).

I really like it, but I'm not sure about them adding non-Mario characters into the mix.

Personally, that was something I always wanted them to do. And Link was always my most requested character for them to add should they ever do it, so I'm pretty happy with the DLC (well, except I wish they were adding battle arenas too).

 

[woopWOOP]

Recently got back to playing this after I fixed my WiiU's connection problems and in anticipation of the November DLC. Online racing has that same 'one more time' power Civilization has over me, ha.

It's a fantastic game but for one huge problem.

It defaults to motion control for the wii-motes. The only way to change it to use the d-pad is to pause the game DURING the fucking race, and switch it off of motion. Unless I'm doing it wrong, how about adding that ability while you're still in the goddamn lobby??!!?

It also doesn't remember those settings (for the 2nd player anyway) so you have to do it every time you go online again. It's such a weird, awkward place to put the controller option at.

 

[Captain Europe]

I'm great at the game and it's still stupid that getting 1st quickly often results in racing alone for the rest of the race. Just because you can objectively say that it's a stupid byproduct of the item/coin system doesn't mean you suck at the game. What a giant leap in logic.

That wasn't all he said. That happens, but it doesn't happen as often as in previous entries, one item slot was a step in the right direction.

 

[FunkyMunkey]

That wasn't all he said. That happens, but it doesn't happen as often as in previous entries, one item slot was a step in the right direction.

I agree with you there most definitely haha. The game does 99% of what it attempts very well.

 

[Josh5890]

Yea I agree with the one last race feeling.

 

[trixx]

Amazing game... except the coin item. The item itself doesn't even need to exist, let alone being in first getting it all the f'ing time.

If you get hit in first use the coin item. Basically when you're in first theres no reason why you shouldn't have at least 9 coins 90% of the time.

People need to understand that coins basically ensure your safety in first because you are going top speed almost all the time. No other player has luxury of holding 7+ coins durinng the majoritty of the race except for 2nd which is also the only person that threates you.
If you're in first by like 2nd lap and you're decent(don't fall off map), nobody will catch you, even as a small character. Blue shells aren't even a problem in the game, getting hit with a red shell is worst than a blue shell.

Almost every single i play online is like this, especially if it's a long course.

 

[Balb]

The GiantBomb guys always say your favorite Mario Kart game is your first. I always agreed with that until 8 came out. It's the first legitimate GOTY contender from the series in a very long time.

 

[opticalmace]

How many DLC packs are planned? I wonder if Nintendo would bother making a GOTY edition with all the DLC included.

 

[Trigonometrize.]

If you get hit in first use the coin item. Basically when you're in first theres no reason why you shouldn't have at least 9 coins 90% of the time.

People need to understand that coins basically ensure your safety in first because you are going top speed almost all the time. The only person that threatens first place is second place. If you're in first by like 2nd lap and you're decent(don't fall off map), nobody will catch you, even as a small character.

But I shouldn't be getting hit because I prefer the protective bananas, shells, etc. The problem is I virtually cannot let go of one once I have it because A) there's no holding two items in 8 and B) fear of getting the coin and being completly vulnerable for the next 15 - 30 seconds.

I consider myself excellent at MK and I don't agree wirh your 1st place advantage thing. Using the coin after getting hit, even while racing perfectly isn't gonna secure first place by any means.

 

[ffdgh]

How many DLC packs are planned? I wonder if Nintendo would bother making a GOTY edition with all the DLC included.

As of now? Just two so far.

 

[Clefargle]

It's the first legitimate GOTY contender from the series in a very long time.

It will still get snubbed by 3/4 of the mainstream game press most likely including Giant Bomb. I'd love to be wrong, but it doesn't seem to be on their radar.

 

[Dusk Soldier]

But I shouldn't be getting hit because I prefer the protective bananas, shells, etc. The problem is I virtually cannot let go of one once I have it because A) there's no holding two items in 8 and B) fear of getting the coin and being completly vulnerable for the next 15 - 30 seconds.

I consider myself excellent at MK and I don't agree wirh your 1st place advantage thing. Using the coin after getting hit, even while racing perfectly isn't gonna secure first place by any means.

Nobody who's excellent at Mario Kart lives in fear of the red shell sniping them out of first place.

 

[TheGreatMightyPoo]

I really like it, but I'm not sure about them adding non-Mario characters into the mix.

I was one against the notion of a Nintendo Kart but different characters equals different tracks equals BRING IT ON.

Especially since there is going to be so much additional content, it makes me not worry that it will be a non-cohesive mess .

People thought DLC was a no-brainer for this game but it's Nintendo and I wasn't so sure so I am just stoked that we are getting this much and the quality of it seems topnotch.

 

[ffdgh]

Nobody who's excellent at Mario Kart lives in fear of the red shell sniping them out of first place.

They do when second place gets triple reds.

 

[Nesther]

Yeah it is but bummer I can't play together with friends: Worldwide and regional and tourney matchmaking works flawlessly, but whenever I try to connect to my friend I get the infamous 018 0516 error code. Looking that up only leads to the same DMZ/NAT/Static IP configuration tips that doesn't help.

Oh well, hopefully Smash won't have those issues. Playing with friends is much more fun than with random people.

 

[Confused Cheeseburger]

I turned it off about an hour ago and I want to turn it on again. Welcome to the goty crop, mk8.

 

[Josh5890]

How many DLC packs are planned? I wonder if Nintendo would bother making a GOTY edition with all the DLC included.

That usually isn't something we see from Nintendo. Then again DLC is still fairly new for them. Given that their games don't see price drops too often I don't see Nintendo "giving" the DLC away.

Just my guess though.

 

[Dreavus]

Great game. If they could just touch up battle mode with some actual arenas and not re-purposed tracks, it'd be near perfect.

 

[Currygan]

I agree on all points, MK8 is phenomenal. Still needs some ancient design choices to disappear, but it's enormous fun and sounds and looks majestic, and that's all that matters

 

[Papercuts]

Nobody who's excellent at Mario Kart lives in fear of the red shell sniping them out of first place.

Triple reds are the most ridiculous weapon in this game.

 

[Acerac]

Considering how advantageous being in first is, I don't feel bad that second can get much better items. Given the choice, I'd rather be in first than in second any time a blue shell isn't flying.

 

[Josh5890]

Great game. If they could just touch up battle mode with some actual arenas and not re-purposed tracks, it'd be near perfect.

That's worth another $8 DLC pack!

 

[-tetsuo-]

The Wii U has delivered some real gems

 

[Nesther]

That's worth another $8 DLC pack!

If that includes a few new characters and such, I'm game. I don't mind them updating the game every half a year or so.

 

[dragonfart28]

Yup.

GOTY

 

[Meeps]

All it needs is Block Fort and it would be perfect (well, perfect enough anyway).

 

[victreeb3l]

I'm expecting DLC releases every 6 months until the next-gen MK game on Nintendos new console. Hopefully one of them will be a revamped battle mode.

 

[opticalmace]

I'm expecting DLC releases every 6 months until the next-gen MK game on Nintendos new console. Hopefully one of them will be a revamped battle mode.

I imagine they'll get bored after the 7th or 8th DLC pack.

 

[charlemagne55]

The game is just missing content. It's hard for me to get over the fact that there's no real battle mode

 

[Spinluck]

I wasn't really too excited for it before release, but after playing it, it's the best Mario Kart in ages.

It feels like the MK team really stepped up in many respects, particularly on the presentation front. The graphics engine, art direction, and music are all really fantastic.

And I'd argue that the course designs are really damn good as well; there's interesting locations that have notable landmarks and variety within them.

There are issues with the item balance but they're better than the last several MK games on that front.

Agree with this. Mario Kart Wii is weak shit in comparison. Really did not enjoy that game.

Shame about the lack of content in this game though.

 

[clemenx]

People who complain about the item balance in MK8 obviously haven't play MKW.

Good players wins 8 out of 10 times.

This has been the case for me on every MK... The randomness has always been overstated, imo. Yeah, every couple of races the items will fuck you up in bullshit ways but if you're good you're going to be winning more often than not.

 

[TheGreatMightyPoo]

This has been the case for me on every MK... The randomness has always been overstated, imo. Yeah, every couple of races the items will fuck you up in bullshit ways but if you're good you're going to be winning more often than not.

I don't know, I would constantly get first(or second) in Mario Kart 7 and in this game, I'm fortunate to get top 5 each race.

It's definitely more chaotic and less skill-based than 7 but it's still easily better mechanically and visually.

 

[Solid Samus]

It's got amazing track design, music, and gameplay, but I echo the sentiment that it's got very little staying power unless you and your pals are really, really into Mario Kart. It's my favorite Mario Kart and simultaneously my least played in local multiplayer by a wide margin, and that's not due to lack of opportunity.

 

[Killa Sasa]

The absolute best Mario Kart to me. Sealed my WiiU purchase and looking like the best game on the system from my perspective, perfect for 30 minutes then getting back on with life.

 

[ghibli99]

I love it, although I have yet to successfully 3-star all of 100cc, which I know is lame, but I'll get there eventually. It's so wonderful to look at that I often get distracted by some off-course detail and then mess up in the process. This thread reminds me that I still have this and 150cc to take care of before the first batch of DLC drops.

 

[iamaustrian]

It's the best mario kart after the SNES one.
No problem with the balance either.

I might also add that it is one of the most polished games I have ever played.
everything runs so smooth and looks so gorgeous

Also this thread NEEDS the japanese TV ad. one of the best ads ever

 

[Neiteio]

Can't wait till I get my Wii U back at the end of November then proceed to lose a bunch of matches to GAF online.

Also some screens I took back when my Wii U was working. I know the aliasing is bad but it honestly doesn't bug me too much when the game runs as smoothly as it does. Would've been nice if Nintendo could've put in some AA but I guess it was either that or a better framerate and it looks like they went with the latter and I'm pretty glad they did.

I don't even notice the aliasing when I see the game in motion. It looks incredible. Beautiful screens, man.

 

[PreyingShark]

I don't even notice the aliasing when I see the game in motion. It looks incredible. Beautiful screens, man.

Those screens just remind me that the game still hasn't given me the $@^*ing parasol.