The 50 Best Nintendo Games Right Now (Wii U / 3DS)

Best Nintendo Games List – #4 Mario Kart 8

Developer: Nintendo EAD Group No. 1

Publisher: Nintendo

Platform: Nintendo Wii U

Release Date: May 30, 2014

When you’re eight deep into a racing franchise known for its arcadey, Mario-esque racing style, it’s hard to find a new creative direction to lead towards. Thankfully, Mario Kart 8 took the loopy design of the number 8 and started to tinker with it, coming up with the concept for anti-gravity racing. Tracks take an unbelievable direction when it comes to design, with aspects of play looking wonky outside of the race itself. However, it blends together when you’re racing yourself, complementing the hang gliding and underwater aspects of Mario Kart racing.

The balance between classic and new tracks continues, but it’s the modest DLC that brings a fresh look to Mario Kart 8. Not only do you get courses from F-Zero, The Legend of Zelda, Animal Crossing and more, but you get actual characters, voice acting and reworked songs going for the courses. Plus, with an extra 50% of courses being added in, in addition to bonus vehicles and parts with a DLC measure that’s fairly cheaper to jump in with buying both packs at once, Mario Kart 8 brings a ton of value in addition to an excellent racing title.

Next: #3 Animal Crossing: New Leaf