I was overjoyed to discover the Mario Kart DS game, one of the first few ones that boast of integrated online play over the DS multiplayer network. This amusing game is a must-have for all Mario fans and virtually everyone will enjoy racing against one another while leaving behind unpleasant surprises such as slippery banana peels, mean-looking red shells and devastating thunder bolts for their opponents. While I find the single player mode infused with 32 varying races and 3 different stages that come in 50cc, 100cc and 150cc difficulties, it is the multiplayer game play that satisfies me most.

The game might look simple but it is far from being child’s play. Circuits are easy to navigate around but it is your own kart that demands more control. From speed and acceleration to the choice of characters, everything plays an important role and will determine if you will emerge victor or loser. I like how the map lays out not only my position in the race, but also shows my rivals as well as any traps or power-ups lying about the circuit.

Overall, this is an easy game to master and you’ll enjoy hours upon hours of go-karting fun. This Mario Kart DS game is for keeps!