Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Gaming to Go: Mario Kart DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/22/gaming-to-go-mario-kart-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/22/gaming-to-go-mario-kart-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/22/gaming-to-go-mario-kart-ds/#commentsFiled under:



Go ahead. Roll your eyes.

Mario Kart? An incredibly obvious choice, perhaps, but for one important reason: it's good. Very good. It's easily the best racer on the DS and one of the greatest titles in the handheld's library, if the review scores are any indication. But beyond the numbers and critical analysis rests the simple fact that Mario Kart DS is fun, fast, and very much worthy of your attention, especially if you're looking for motor madness just as enjoyable now as it was when the game raced onto shelves back in late 2005.

Sure, there's this newfangled Wii version making the rounds, but for all of its technological advances, Mario Kart Wii is lacking in one vital area -- you can't take it on the toilet. If that realization is all it takes to convince you to dust that tiny cartridge off and put it back in action, you're in the right place. Grab a few bananas and peel out* to the second page as this week's edition of Gaming to Go revisits a portable classic.

*I'm so sorry.

Tick tock of the clock ringing in your ears? Tell your timepiece to shove it! We live busy lives, but remember this: there's always time to game. Check back with Gaming to Go every week for the latest and greatest titles you should spend your precious few minutes with.

JoystiqGaming to Go: Mario Kart DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Sep 2008 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>joystiqfeaturesmariomario-kartmariokartracingMon, 22 Sep 2008 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Revolutionary: Mario Kart Training Wheel]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/21/revolutionary-mario-kart-training-wheel/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/21/revolutionary-mario-kart-training-wheel/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/21/revolutionary-mario-kart-training-wheel/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


The Wii Wheel was supposed to make racing easy enough for anyone to jump right into a session of Mario Kart Wii with no prior experience with either traditional game controllers or the Wii Remote. When used properly, it works as expected. The trouble is that it's not always used properly. Watching your parents try to get through Wario's Gold Mine, you'll notice that they're sometimes holding the Wheel the wrong way, and it's making them drive off the track into chasms of eternity. This observation led me to examine how Mario Kart Wii's steering works and come up with a solution for keeping n00bs on track.

Continue reading Revolutionary: Mario Kart Training Wheel

JoystiqRevolutionary: Mario Kart Training Wheel originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 May 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>joystiqfeaturesmario-kartmario-kart-wiimariokartRevolutionarywheelwii-wheelwiiwheelWed, 21 May 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blockbuster expands game focus, takes on retail game, hardware sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/28/blockbuster-expands-game-focus-takes-on-retail-game-hardware-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/28/blockbuster-expands-game-focus-takes-on-retail-game-hardware-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/28/blockbuster-expands-game-focus-takes-on-retail-game-hardware-s/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Days after confirming plans to stock Grand Theft Auto IV alongside movies on its outer release wall, Blockbuster today announced that the recently released Wii flavor of Mario Kart will make the leap as well. The move is part of what the rental giant calls a plan to "significantly expand its game business," which includes a greater emphasis on selling retail games and hardware, as well as stocking a larger number and variety of games to rent.

Blockbuster specifically noted plans to offer a special $499.99 PS3 bundle in its corporate-owned stores, which will include a 40GB console, a copy of the movie Spiderman 3 on Blu-ray, Activision's video game adaptation of Transformers, and the opportunity to rent one free PS3 game or Blu-ray movie a week for 12 consecutive weeks. However, while we appreciate the added attention Blockbuster is giving our favorite hobby, we doubt even this will sway us into venturing out into the sunlight to rent anything.

JoystiqBlockbuster expands game focus, takes on retail game, hardware sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Apr 2008 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blockbustergameflymario-kartmariokartPS3rentalMon, 28 Apr 2008 11:29:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Daily: A longtime companion calls it quits]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/ds-daily-a-longtime-companion-calls-it-quits/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/ds-daily-a-longtime-companion-calls-it-quits/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/23/ds-daily-a-longtime-companion-calls-it-quits/#commentsFiled under:

This weekend, we had to do something that made us feel horrible, but in the end, was for the best. Like that scene in Old Yeller, we had to put down one of our DS carts (Mario Kart DS, oddly enough). You see, all of the inserting and ejecting of the cartridge with our DS caused something to get loose in there and now the cart cannot be read by the system.

It got us to wondering about this happening to others, namely you all, who probably play their DS a lot more than we're able to. So have you played a game so much this has happened? Have you never heard of this happening? What's your oldest DS game?

JoystiqDS Daily: A longtime companion calls it quits originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Apr 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cartcartridgemario-kart-dsmariokartmariokartdsWed, 23 Apr 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Mario Kart Wii may also be plagued by disc read errors]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/13/rumor-mario-kart-wii-may-also-be-plagued-by-disc-read-errors/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/13/rumor-mario-kart-wii-may-also-be-plagued-by-disc-read-errors/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/13/rumor-mario-kart-wii-may-also-be-plagued-by-disc-read-errors/#commentsFiled under:


Did your nearly two years of anticipation come to an anticlimactic conclusion last month when your stubborn, soiled Nintendo Wii refused to play the pristine copy of Smash Bros. Brawl you'd just purchased? If you were one of the unlucky owners of an unkempt Wii whose dust-covered laser couldn't read the dual-layer Brawl disc, we've got bad news -- there's a chance your bedraggled home console will refuse to read Mario Kart Wii as well.

GoNintendo cited German gaming news site GameFront with reporting numerous complaints from owners of the Japanese version of the game, saying it often refuses to load and is plagued by frequent crashes -- likely due to the same dual-layered woes suffered by Brawl. Thing is, we can't find any reports of Mario Kart Wii being a dual-layered game -- on the contrary, some early purchasers (and those who obtained the game through more ... dubious channels) are certain it's single-layered. We doubt it's cause for widespread panic -- but keep a wary eye out for further complaints.

JoystiqRumor: Mario Kart Wii may also be plagued by disc read errors originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 13 Apr 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>disc-read-errordiscreaderrormario-kartmariokartmariokartwiinintendonintendo-wiinintendowiirumorwiiSun, 13 Apr 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Kart Wii Japanese intro video excites]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/22/mario-kart-wii-japanese-intro-video-excites/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/22/mario-kart-wii-japanese-intro-video-excites/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/22/mario-kart-wii-japanese-intro-video-excites/#commentsFiled under:


The color is off a little in the above video, but the intro cutscene for Mario Kart Wii in Japan shows off some sweet stuff. We're sure it'll be no different than the intro we get here in the states, but we're glad to have had this early look. The whole "stunting thing" looks a lot more manageable and it appears to actually flow with the game nicely, dashing our fears that our beloved Mario Kart franchise would not be enjoyable on the Wii. Personally, we don't know why we ever had any doubt. It's Nintendo we're talking about, after all!



[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqMario Kart Wii Japanese intro video excites originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 22 Mar 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mario-kartmario-kart-wiimariokartwii-wheelSat, 22 Mar 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Japanese Mario Kart Wii video smorgasbord]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/22/japanese-mario-kart-wii-video-smorgasbord/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/22/japanese-mario-kart-wii-video-smorgasbord/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/22/japanese-mario-kart-wii-video-smorgasbord/#commentsFiled under: ,


If you weren't turned off from Mario Kart Wii after the announcement that it would be sans-serpentile-steering, the gaggle of (somewhat poor quality) gameplay videos recently posted by GameTrailers might just tickle your fancy. Featuring the above intro for the Japanese version of the game as well as a number of features on some of the series' returning maps, it certainly fired a nostalgic red shell into our heart of hearts. We'll be bringing those blue sparks when the game hits U.S. store shelves on April 27 -- who wants to be first for a five-course meal consisting solely of banana peels and our dust?

JoystiqJapanese Mario Kart Wii video smorgasbord originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 22 Mar 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>intromario-kartmario-kart-wiimariokartmariokartwiinintendonintendowiivideowiiSat, 22 Mar 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Official Mario Kart Wii site launches (for Japan)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/21/official-mario-kart-wii-site-launches-for-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/21/official-mario-kart-wii-site-launches-for-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/21/official-mario-kart-wii-site-launches-for-japan/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Fans that just can't get enough of upcoming Nintendo racer Mario Kart Wii, there is now more content for you to painstakingly go over, drooling down your shirt as you press your face against your monitor. The official website for the game (in Japan) has launched, bringing with it a steady flow of video content aimed at blowing your mind. Seriously, there's lots of great content over there, so be sure to check it out.


[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqOfficial Mario Kart Wii site launches (for Japan) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Mar 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mario-kartmario-kart-wiimariokartracingFri, 21 Mar 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ONM reports no snaking in Mario Kart]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/17/onm-reports-no-snaking-in-mario-kart/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/17/onm-reports-no-snaking-in-mario-kart/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/17/onm-reports-no-snaking-in-mario-kart/#commentsFiled under:


You can all breathe easier now ... considering, of course, that you trust the UK's Official Nintendo Magazine, which has been known to be wrong on a few issues here and there.

When we reported rumors that the dreaded snaking technique would worm its way to Mario Kart Wii, many of you vented your irritation in the comments. According to ONM, though, snaking won't be exploitable in the upcoming Wii racer.

The magazine reported in its review of the game, "Ever since the N64 game, practically every Mario Kart game has included the ability to get a speed boost by waggling the controls left and right as you powerslide. This has finally been scrapped, and now your speed boost is determined by how long you can hold the slide." Sounds like a better system to us.

Yet, we're sure that some of you are advocates of snaking, and are not happy by this turn of events. So, now it's your turn to vent in the comments -- let us hear your woes, snakers.



[Via GoNintendo]

JoystiqONM reports no snaking in Mario Kart originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mario-kartmariokartofficial-nintendo-ma...onmracingsnakingMon, 17 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Kart Wii snakes into stores April 27]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/12/mario-kart-wii-snakes-into-stores-april-27/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/12/mario-kart-wii-snakes-into-stores-april-27/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/12/mario-kart-wii-snakes-into-stores-april-27/#commentsFiled under: ,


Nintendo has announced that its frantic shell-flinging racer, Mario Kart Wii, will see its long-awaited US release on April 27th. The game will include the "intuitive" Wii Wheel, otherwise described as a large hunk of plastic capable of housing your Wii remote. We envision it being less useful for the actual game and better suited to the imaginary car we'll be driving everywhere, complete with lip-powered puttering and unexpected honking to annoy the coworkers at the office.

Once you stick Mario Kart Wii into your console, you'll be able to compete with up to 11 other drivers online across 32 courses (half of them recycled from previous games). You can also expect to encounter Mii integration, 10 battle arenas, alternate controller support and a festering hatred for blue shells.

JoystiqMario Kart Wii snakes into stores April 27 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Mar 2008 08:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsMarioMario-KartMario-Kart-WiiMarioKartMiiRacingWiiWii-WheelWed, 12 Mar 2008 08:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo details Mario Kart Wii channel, online play]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/05/nintendo-details-mario-kart-wii-channel-online-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/05/nintendo-details-mario-kart-wii-channel-online-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/05/nintendo-details-mario-kart-wii-channel-online-play/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We've known for a while that Mario Kart Wii would support twelve-player online races, but given Nintendo's less-than-stellar online record, we were a little worried about how smooth the online experience would be. Well, we're a little less worried now that the Nintendo UK web site has revealed some details of how online racing on the Wii will work. Among the details discussed:
  • Spectator mode - When you join a room in progress, you can watch the race unfold while waiting for a new one to start.
  • Global friend view - Lets you view your friends' locations and online status.
  • Room structure - Host chooses race type, but player votes determine course selection.
The site also revealed a dedicated Mario Kart Wii channel, which can be run independently of the disc-version of the game. The channel lets players view global rankings, share and download ghost data, and download daily missions (similar to those found in Mario Kart DS). Can we suggest a mission dedicated to arranging dropped banana peels into jaunty patterns? That would be awesome.

[Via WiiFanboy]

JoystiqNintendo details Mario Kart Wii channel, online play originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Mar 2008 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>channelkartmariomario kartmario kart wiimario-kart-wiiMarioKartMarioKartWiionlineraceWiiWed, 05 Mar 2008 12:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Euro retailer Game expects greater profits thanks to 'buoyant' market]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/03/euro-retailer-game-expects-greater-profits-thanks-to-buoyant-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/03/euro-retailer-game-expects-greater-profits-thanks-to-buoyant-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/03/euro-retailer-game-expects-greater-profits-thanks-to-buoyant-m/#commentsFiled under: ,


Things continue to look rosy for UK-based mega-retailer Game Group, as the company today announced that it raised its profit expectations for the year from £73 ($145 million) to £74 million ($147 million). Says the financial gurus at Bloomberg, the chain has much thanks to lay at the feet of Nintendo and its platforms' appeal to "women and older customers" for the elevated expectations.

The group's like-for-like sales for the fifty weeks leading to January 12 were up around 43 percent while the company expects further growth of around 5 to 10 percent in the current year, driven by a "buoyant" video game market. Preliminary financial results are expected to drop on April 29, though given thin competition and what Game calls "a strong pipeline of innovative software," including such titles as Nintendo's Wii Fit and Mario Kart, as well as Rockstar's Grand Theft Auto IV, we expect those calling the shots for the retailer to remain swimming in the deep end of the money pool for a good while longer.

JoystiqEuro retailer Game expects greater profits thanks to 'buoyant' market originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Mar 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europegamegame-groupgamegroupgta-ivgtaivmario-kartmariokartwii-fitwiifitMon, 03 Mar 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The DS Life: First-person gaming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/the-ds-life-first-person-gaming/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/the-ds-life-first-person-gaming/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/the-ds-life-first-person-gaming/#commentsFiled under: ,


The DS Life is a weekly feature in which we scour the known world for narrative images of Nintendo's handhelds and handheld gamers. If you have a photo and a story to match it with, send both to thedslife at dsfanboy dot com.

We're breaking away from our usual routine this week -- instead of fawning over touching scenes of handheld gamers, we'll look through ten pictures taken from the gamers's point of view. These photographs can reveal a lot about the shutterbugs who took them! You know, besides what game they were playing at the time.

Continue reading The DS Life: First-person gaming

JoystiqThe DS Life: First-person gaming originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Feb 2008 23:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beneath-a-steel-skycard-holderchocobotalesfirst-personmariokartnintendogsphoenix-wrightpoint-of-viewtaikotamagotchiteam-fortressWed, 27 Feb 2008 23:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Kart Wii supports 8-player battle mode]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/mario-kart-wii-supports-8-player-battle-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/mario-kart-wii-supports-8-player-battle-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/mario-kart-wii-supports-8-player-battle-mode/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Twelve players might be a nice round number for straight-out races, but we've still been waiting patiently to see how many online opponents Nintendo will allow us in Mario Kart Wii's version of the classic battle modes. Jeux France reports that eight players will be able to duke it out in the game's battle modes.

To arrive at the magic number yourself, check out the radar in the lower-right of the above picture. Eight icons are clearly visible, making for ample amounts of balloons to burst, and stars to steal. We're sad that twelve-player support isn't possible in the battle mode, but we'll definitely take what we can get.

[Via Wii Fanboy]

Gallery: Mario Kart Wii

JoystiqMario Kart Wii supports 8-player battle mode originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Feb 2008 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Mario-Kartmario-kart-wiimariokartmariokartwiinintendoNintendo-EADRacingWiiWed, 27 Feb 2008 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Kart Wii features text chat; still no voice support]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/mario-kart-wii-features-text-chat-still-no-voice-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/mario-kart-wii-features-text-chat-still-no-voice-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/27/mario-kart-wii-features-text-chat-still-no-voice-support/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The Wii is woefully behind the curve in terms of online features, a problem that Nintendo is slowly trying to fix with upcoming AAA titles like Super Smash Bros. Brawl and Mario Kart Wii. While the former won't offer much by way of in-game communication, the latter will in fact feature chat room options, allowing users to text it up with anyone on their Wii Friends list.

IGN reports that the texting option in Mario Kart Wii is limited to people you've swapped friends codes with (of course), and text-chatting is only possible before, and presumably after, racing matches. Text entry via Wii Remote is assumed, and IGN wagers that USB keyboards may be supported as well, as keyboard support has been included in most Wii software.

It's no voice chat, to be sure, but at least we'll be able to argue with friends over the fairness of blue shells.

[Thanks, Bigfoot]

JoystiqMario Kart Wii features text chat; still no voice support originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Feb 2008 00:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mario-kartmario-kart-wiimariokartmariokartwiinintendoWiiWed, 27 Feb 2008 00:55:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08: Extended Mario Kart trailer, remixed music]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/23/gdc08-extended-mario-kart-trailer-remixed-music/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/23/gdc08-extended-mario-kart-trailer-remixed-music/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/23/gdc08-extended-mario-kart-trailer-remixed-music/#commentsFiled under:


Remember that Mario Kart Wii trailer we posted just two days ago? Well, shift-delete that footage from your memory and replace it with this extended promotional video which debuted at the Game Developers Conference. Not only is this clip twice as long as the previous one we featured, but it has a remixed version of the old Mario Circuit music as its audio track instead of some guy who sounds like Jerry Seinfeld yelling in the background.

We can totally get behind this song! It sounds like something out of Bust a Groove!

JoystiqGDC08: Extended Mario Kart trailer, remixed music originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 23 Feb 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gdc08gdc08fanboymario-kartmariokartmusicremixtrailerSat, 23 Feb 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08: Mario Kart Wii in motion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/gdc08-mario-kart-wii-in-motion/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/gdc08-mario-kart-wii-in-motion/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/21/gdc08-mario-kart-wii-in-motion/#commentsFiled under:


For those of you who've decided that just looking at screens isn't enough for you, IGN has uploaded video of Mario Kart Wii in action. And, from the looks of it, this game is going to be just as we thought: fun. Seriously, did you ever doubt it could be anything but?

JoystiqGDC08: Mario Kart Wii in motion originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Feb 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gdc08gdc08fanboymario-kartmariokartThu, 21 Feb 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Kart megaton: Mii integration, online menu navigation, and tracks exposed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/mario-kart-megaton-mii-integration-online-menu-navigation-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/mario-kart-megaton-mii-integration-online-menu-navigation-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/mario-kart-megaton-mii-integration-online-menu-navigation-and/#commentsFiled under: ,


Hot on the heels of yesterday's news (and today's, for that matter) on everyone's favorite upcoming racer, Mario kart Wii, comes fresh screens depicting a variety of the game's selling points. We get to see Mii integration (above), as well as a taste for some of the tracks making their way into the game, new and old alike. Not only that, but we get some screens for navigating the online arena and setting up a race.

For all of the eye candy, check out our gallery below.


JoystiqMario Kart megaton: Mii integration, online menu navigation, and tracks exposed originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Feb 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mario-kart-mkwiimario-kart-wiimariokartmariokartwiimiiracingWed, 20 Feb 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Kart Wii preview discusses new control methods]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/19/mario-kart-wii-preview-discusses-new-control-methods/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/19/mario-kart-wii-preview-discusses-new-control-methods/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/19/mario-kart-wii-preview-discusses-new-control-methods/#commentsFiled under: ,

Mario Kart fans worried that the Wii remote/Wii Wheel combination would lead to an uncomfortable lack of precision in the upcoming Mario Kart Wii (yes, that's the official name) can breath a sigh of relief. A new 1UP preview of the game reveals that, much like Super Smash Bros. Brawl, the racer will also support more traditional controls via a GameCube pad, a remote/Nunchuk combo, or the Wii's Classic Controller.

While the preview notes somewhat predictably that the Wii Wheel controls "took a little while to get used to," the other play styles were reportedly "quite responsive and instantly familiar." There are some advantages to the motion-sensitive controllers though -- while a quick shake of the Wii Wheel and/or Nunchuk will perform the game's new mid-air tricks, the Gamecube and Classic controllers require players to "awkwardly [reach] for the directional pad," according to the preview.

The full article goes into more detail on the game's new items, new motorcycles, new power-sliding options and a new Mario Kart channel for online play. Check it out if, uh, you like hearing about new stuff.

JoystiqMario Kart Wii preview discusses new control methods originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Feb 2008 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mario kartmario kart wiimario-kartmario-kart-wiiMarioKartMarioKartWiiMKWiiSuper Mario KartSuperMarioKartWiiTue, 19 Feb 2008 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08: Nintendo sheds more light on Mario Kart Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/19/gdc08-nintendo-sheds-more-light-on-mario-kart-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/19/gdc08-nintendo-sheds-more-light-on-mario-kart-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/19/gdc08-nintendo-sheds-more-light-on-mario-kart-wii/#commentsFiled under: , ,


IGN got their lucky, lucky hands on the latest build of Mario Kart Wii recently, taking the time to carefully analyze the differences between this game and the installments of old. Following this, they wrote a five-page preview on the game. We've read the whole thing (omg no wai?!). We're excited.

First of all, each racer now has a plethora of rides to choose from: three karts and three bikes each. These are available from the start of the game. Also, the CC classes return, but with a small twist. The 50CC bracket is for karts only, the 100CC bracket is for bikes only and the 150CC is a mixture of both. IGN notes the difference between the two as the bikes having a tougher time with turns, but being easier to boost with (tip the wheel back to do a wheelie, hold it then zoom off). As for karts, they'll get boosts from powerslides, providing more boost depending on how long the player holds it, eliminating the need to slam on the d-pad to generate these anymore (we're not sure if this means no more snaking or not). Stunts will also provide boosts, allowing a player to perform a mid-air stunt off of a jump and shoot off once they land on the track.

Continue reading GDC08: Nintendo sheds more light on Mario Kart Wii

JoystiqGDC08: Nintendo sheds more light on Mario Kart Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Feb 2008 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gdc08gdc08fanboymario-kartmario-kart-wiimariokartmariokartwiipreviewTue, 19 Feb 2008 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: What do you want from Nintendo at GDC?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/19/wii-warm-up-what-do-you-want-from-nintendo-at-gdc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/19/wii-warm-up-what-do-you-want-from-nintendo-at-gdc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/19/wii-warm-up-what-do-you-want-from-nintendo-at-gdc/#commentsFiled under:


Well, the big thing this week is the Game Developer's Conference in San Francisco, as folks from the gaming industry get together and create pandemonium throughout the intertron by releasing new details on upcoming projects and revealing some for the first time. And we wouldn't have it any other way.

So we were wondering what you Nintendo lovers would want to see most from the show. A new game announcement? A release date set in stone for Wii Fit or perhaps Mario Kart? What kind of things regarding this week's show are rattling around in your mind?

JoystiqWii Warm Up: What do you want from Nintendo at GDC? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Feb 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gdc08gdc08fanboymario-kartmariokartwii-fitwiifitTue, 19 Feb 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Kart screens reveal playable Koopa Troopa, stunt track]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/18/mario-kart-screens-reveal-playable-koopa-troopa-stunt-track/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/18/mario-kart-screens-reveal-playable-koopa-troopa-stunt-track/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/18/mario-kart-screens-reveal-playable-koopa-troopa-stunt-track/#commentsFiled under:



The folks at Nintencast have posted a clutch of new Mario Kart Wii screens, and even taken the time to extract fresh factoids about the game from said shots. While one or two of their findings are less than earth-shattering ("Luigi's circuit is still a simple track"), the odd nugget will prove interesting to those following the game's progress.

For instance, we now know that Koopa Troopa will be making only his third appearance in a Mario Kart game (having previously appeared in Super Mario Kart and Mario Kart: Double Dash!!), that race spectators will comprise entirely of Miis, and that the game will feature a kind of "half-pipe" track, presumably to encourage players to pull off stunts, a new addition to the series. We're still not totally convinced by the sight of Donkey Kong performing a handstand while riding a motorbike, but Nintendo doesn't often drop the ball on this series, so we'll remain quietly confident for now.

Admittedly, a handful of these screens did already appear in the Famitsu scans we posted a couple of weeks back, but the majority are new to us. Accelerate past the break for more, or race over the "Read" link at the bottom of this post to access the full set.

Continue reading Mario Kart screens reveal playable Koopa Troopa, stunt track

JoystiqMario Kart screens reveal playable Koopa Troopa, stunt track originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Feb 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>koopa-troopamario-kartmario-kart-wiimariokartmariokartwiimiiracingMon, 18 Feb 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Kart cheat adds paddle controller support]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/14/mario-kart-cheat-adds-paddle-controller-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/14/mario-kart-cheat-adds-paddle-controller-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/14/mario-kart-cheat-adds-paddle-controller-support/#commentsFiled under: , ,


As fun as Taito's paddle controller might be, the peripheral's limited compatibility restricts experimentation with any games outside of Arkanoid DS or Space Invaders Extreme. What about the other Breakout DS clones or all the titles packed in Retro Atari Classics? Will they ever know the wheeled affection they desperately pine for? Or will their love go unrequited, the spinner playing the part of the "little red-haired girl?"

Yasu's Action Replay "cheat string" doesn't unlock universal support for the paddle, providing us with a Valentine's Day miracle, but it does allow the controller to be used with an unexpected title -- Mario Kart DS. It's an important first step towards the greater goal! As you can see in the demonstration video above, it's not the most effective control scheme. We're sure that won't stop the jerks "snakers" out there from finding a way to exploit the setup.

JoystiqMario Kart cheat adds paddle controller support originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Feb 2008 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-replayarkanoidmario-kartmariokartpaddlespace-invadersspace-invaders-extremetaitoThu, 14 Feb 2008 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: On Mario Kart Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/07/wii-warm-up-on-mario-kart-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/07/wii-warm-up-on-mario-kart-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/07/wii-warm-up-on-mario-kart-wii/#commentsFiled under: ,



We've been hearing new details about Mario Kart Wii recently, and it's pretty clear that there's going to be some notable tweaks made to the tried-and-trusted formula. Firstly, we should make one thing clear: we are genuinely thrilled about many of these modifications. Online leagues, global rankings, and online multiplayer for up to twelve people is the stuff dreams were made of back in 1991, when Super Mario Kart (above) was soaking up our afternoons like a particularly fun, addictive sponge (and on a tangential note, how well has that game aged?).

But look at some of the other changes being made: we already know about the bikes, but it looks like the game will also include aerial tricks and bike wheelies, introducing some sort of stunt element to the experience. Is this a case of Nintendo over-egging Mario Kart, in the same way that it over-egged Mario Kart: Double Dash!!? There's an awful lot to be excited about when it comes to Mario Kart Wii, but are you Mario Kart traditionalists concerned by some of these new developments, or is it simply too soon to tell?

JoystiqWii Warm Up: On Mario Kart Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Feb 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mario-kartmario-kart-wiimariokartmariokartwiiracingwwuThu, 07 Feb 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Kart rumors surface, quickly get denied]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/29/mario-kart-rumors-surface-quickly-get-denied/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/29/mario-kart-rumors-surface-quickly-get-denied/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/29/mario-kart-rumors-surface-quickly-get-denied/#commentsFiled under:


This has nothing to do with the leaked release list from earlier in this very same day, but some more specific features about the game other than when it will officially exist in the sense that you may buy it, play it and perhaps snuggle with its instruction manual. According to an upcoming issue of NMag (by way of GoNintendo), snaking will make its way back into the game, along with a total of 32 tracks (16 new, 16 old) and Baby Peach and Boo will be drivers. Also, the controls are supposed to be very much like those that are in Excite Truck.

Apparently, this is all speculation, though, as a Nintendo rep told Eurogamer that these tidbits of info are nothing more than rumors. "Nintendo has not announced any further information on Mario Kart," the rep said. "We've spoken to the magazine and it's just pure rumour and speculation on their part." So while Nintendo shoots down all of this info, you can still be sure in betting on the track list being a mixture of older tracks, with some new ones sprinkled in for good measure. We'll just all have to make our own guess as to how many there will be.

Read - GoNintendo leaks info from upcoming issue of NMag
Read - Nintendo tells Eurogamer it's all rumors

JoystiqMario Kart rumors surface, quickly get denied originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Jan 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>excitetruckmario-kartmariokartTue, 29 Jan 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The DS Life: Shoreline]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/23/the-ds-life-shoreline/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/23/the-ds-life-shoreline/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/23/the-ds-life-shoreline/#commentsFiled under: ,



The DS Life is a weekly feature in which we scour the known world for narrative images of Nintendo's handhelds and handheld gamers. If you have a photo and a story to match it with, send both to thedslife at dsfanboy dot com.

"And because they had once written themselves a beach, on which to dream themselves together, they decided that to celebrate they'd have another one of their rare days, and for it, they would go to a beach." - Looper, "Impossible Things"

Continue reading The DS Life: Shoreline

JoystiqThe DS Life: Shoreline originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beachloopermario-kartmariokartWed, 23 Jan 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Another week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 12/17-12/23]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/26/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-12-17-12-23/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/26/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-12-17-12-23/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/26/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-12-17-12-23/#commentsFiled under:

Another week in Japan has come and gone, which means yet another week of ridiculous success for the DS. The hardware managed to top 300k for the week, while heavy hitters like Final Fantasy IV, Dragon Quest IV, and Mario Party DS littered the top ten in the software charts. It was also a good week for baseball game Dorabase, which debuted at the number nine spot with 96k, selling 90% of it's total stock.

Hardware:
  • DS: 319,000
  • Wii: 264,000
  • PSP: 162,000
  • PS3: 51,000
  • PS2: 24,000
  • Xbox 360: 8,100
Check after the break to see the software numbers for 12/17-12/23 in Japan.

Continue reading Another week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 12/17-12/23

JoystiqAnother week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 12/17-12/23 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Dec 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>another-week-in-japancard-herochartsdorabasedq4dqivdragon-quest-4dragon-quest-ivfamitsuff4ffivfinal-fantasy-4final-fantasy-ivjapanlaytonmario-kartmario-partymariokartpokemon-dungeonsalesWed, 26 Dec 2007 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dojo update: Going to the races]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/13/dojo-update-going-to-the-races/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/13/dojo-update-going-to-the-races/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/13/dojo-update-going-to-the-races/#commentsFiled under: ,



There's been a few less-than-stellar updates on the dojo recently, but today's unveiling of the Mario Circuit stage has atoned for that somewhat. Not that the stage is entirely new, of course; those with strong memories may recall this stage being part of a trailer first shown back in November 2006. Nevertheless, Mario Kart totally rocks our socks, so we'll forgive it.

Based on the figure-eight Mario Circuit course that has appeared in every Mario Kart game to date (battles take place at where the track joins in the middle), this stage features a field of eight Shy Guys zipping about in karts as you scrap. Being hit by a kart deals out damage, and they approach from all directions as well: from the sides, back, and front. Luckily for brawlers, the giant screen at the back of the track keeps tabs on their location. And if that fails, you can even wipe out the karts yourself with one well-timed swing of a weapon.


JoystiqDojo update: Going to the races originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Dec 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dojomario-kartmariokartsmash-bros-brawlssbbThu, 13 Dec 2007 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: new Famitsu loaded with Wii info [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/rumor-new-famitsu-loaded-with-wii-info/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/rumor-new-famitsu-loaded-with-wii-info/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/rumor-new-famitsu-loaded-with-wii-info/#commentsFiled under:

Looks like Nintendo fans in Japan are about to have a lot to crow about. While we'll have to see if any of these goodies make it outside that country in bundle form, apparently new Wii colors will be released as bundles with Super Smash Bros. Brawl. The colors include Diamond Black, Red, Mint Blue, Snow Pink, and Famicom colors, and the bundles will include two Wii remotes and two nunchuks so you can get your brawl on in style. The packs will retail for ¥35,000, which is a little more than $313 U.S.. Not a bad deal at all.

It's not all about Brawl, however. Word is that Mario Kart is coming in February and is confirmed as having eight player multiplayer (the number just keeps dropping), and on top of the bikes we'd already heard about, there will be animals as well. Maybe they should change the name to Mario Things-You-Can-Drive-Or-Otherwise-Navigate?

None of this has been confirmed yet, but if it is ... we could use some of those new colors! Oh, wait. Y'know, we could just use a few more Wiis, in any shade.

[Update: Alas, this news report was not the Famitsu you're looking for. Or, as commentor MidnightScott said more succinctly, this was confirmed as a fake translation.]

JoystiqRumor: new Famitsu loaded with Wii info [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Dec 2007 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bundlecolorfamitsujapanmario-kartmariokartssbbTue, 11 Dec 2007 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Kart + slot car racing = awesome]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/10/mario-kart-slot-car-racing-awesome/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/10/mario-kart-slot-car-racing-awesome/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/10/mario-kart-slot-car-racing-awesome/#commentsFiled under: ,


File this under "amazing gamer gift ideas." Sure, we haven't really touched slot car racers since we were ten, and all we can really recall is flying off the damn track every twenty seconds, but this still makes our hearts flutter. German slot car manufacturer Carrera has created a high-quality Mario Kart slot racing set, complete with star-laden track, and Mario and Wario racers in their own unique karts.

The Mario Kart Go! set is officially licensed by Nintendo, and features about 20 feet of track (we're not slot car racers, so we don't know if that's good or bad). The set is apparently popular, because it's already sold out, with a new shipment due in this Tuesday, December 12th.

We'd prefer to see Yoshi, Luigi, or even Bowser as Mario's slot car rival, rather than Wario, but who can complain? Mario Kart and slot car racing is truly a match made in heaven.

JoystiqMario Kart + slot car racing = awesome originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Dec 2007 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>giftsholidaysmariomario-kartmariokartmerchmerchandisenintendoMon, 10 Dec 2007 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Kart Go! makes us want to go broke]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/08/mario-kart-go-makes-us-want-to-go-broke/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/08/mario-kart-go-makes-us-want-to-go-broke/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/08/mario-kart-go-makes-us-want-to-go-broke/#commentsFiled under:

We're no slot-car racing aficionados, and yet we're still impressed by this Mario Kart themed kit for sale at Firebox. Luckily for us and our itchy "have to buy it, can't resist" fingers, this $90 toy is out of stock. The only disappointing thing about the track is that you can't choose which characters you want (it automatically comes with Mario and Wario), but overall it's probably a nice gift for anyone into video games and slot-car racing.

[Via GoNintendo]

JoystiqMario Kart Go! makes us want to go broke originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 08 Dec 2007 22:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mario-kartmariokartslot-racingslotcar-racingtoySat, 08 Dec 2007 22:27:00 EST<![CDATA[GuitarioKart shows us what real guitar heroes are made of]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/guitariokart-shows-us-what-real-guitar-heroes-are-made-of/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/guitariokart-shows-us-what-real-guitar-heroes-are-made-of/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/guitariokart-shows-us-what-real-guitar-heroes-are-made-of/#commentsFiled under:


If you've ever hung out with us at Game Night, you probably know that Mario Kart DS is a popular choice among our readers. While we love a round of Mario Kart here and there, we'd probably love it even more if we were able to play it with guitars. And no, we're not talking about Guitar Hero controllers, but real guitars, as seen in the video above. Somehow, these guys have created a mod that let's them control video games (in this case, the original Mario Kart for SNES) by the pitch of their musical instrument. Aside from the fact that the video turns really trippy halfway through with no explanation, it's a pretty cool thing to watch.

Check after the break to see the Mortal Kombat guitar battle, which is slightly more entertaining even if it doesn't involve any fatalities.

Continue reading GuitarioKart shows us what real guitar heroes are made of

JoystiqGuitarioKart shows us what real guitar heroes are made of originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Dec 2007 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guitarmario-kartmariokartmortal-kombatmortalkombatMon, 03 Dec 2007 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy presents: Game Night 11/15/07 aftermath]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/16/ds-fanboy-presents-game-night-11-15-07-aftermath/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/16/ds-fanboy-presents-game-night-11-15-07-aftermath/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/16/ds-fanboy-presents-game-night-11-15-07-aftermath/#commentsFiled under:


Even with some of us being very late (see: the author of this post), we still managed to get our game on. Races were had in Mario Kart DS and we tasted the utterly horrible, yet very familiar, taste of defeat. Oh well, there is always next week to reclaim our honor as kinda OK at games.

Oh, wait, next week is Thanksgiving! Sorry, but we'll have to wait until the following week before getting back to Game Night. It's a holiday and we'll be busy taking various naps fueled by our bellies full of turkey.

So, enjoy the holiday and we'll see you guys at Game Night on November 29th!

View Poll

JoystiqDS Fanboy presents: Game Night 11/15/07 aftermath originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Nov 2007 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clubhouse-gamesmariokartmultiplayerpaneldeponpicrossplanetpuzzleleagueFri, 16 Nov 2007 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Could Nintendo have ruined Mario Kart?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/could-nintendo-have-ruined-mario-kart/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/could-nintendo-have-ruined-mario-kart/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/could-nintendo-have-ruined-mario-kart/#commentsFiled under:


Over at CVG, they pose a very interesting question: will the inclusion of motorcycles completely ruin Mario Kart? While we'd say the inclusion of bikes may perhaps go against the spirit of the title, we wouldn't go so far as to assume it's such a decision that would ruin the game. Considering we have yet to play it ourselves, we're trying to be open-minded about all of it.

But we will agree with them in saying that the GameCube entry Double Dash was lackluster, at best. The game seemed to be making a return to more traditional values, as it were, on the handheld circuit, with the DS game absolutely blowing us away. Now, the Wii game looks like it's going to follow in the footsteps of the GameCube game.

Now, as we said, we're not passing judgment prematurely, but we are concerned. Are you not concerned? Or, are you confident Nintendo will knock it out of the park, as they say?

JoystiqCould Nintendo have ruined Mario Kart? originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Oct 2007 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mariokartmkwiiFri, 12 Oct 2007 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Kart Wii allows for 12-player online racing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/11/mario-kart-wii-allows-for-12-player-online-racing/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/11/mario-kart-wii-allows-for-12-player-online-racing/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/11/mario-kart-wii-allows-for-12-player-online-racing/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Amidst all the Sonic celebration and delay debacle, we seemed to have a missed a crucial bit of info regarding Nintendo's other multiplayer prodigy. As 1UP graciously points out, Satoru Iwata made the formal announcement at Nintendo's Japanese press conference that Mario Kart Wii will support up to 12 players in an online race, making it the largest Mario Kart yet, and the biggest multiplayer effort on Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection so far.

According to 1UP, Iwata also stated that Nintendo would attempt to streamline the matchmaking process in Mario Kart Wii. We'll go ahead and put in a "second" for that "no friend codes" request, futile though it may seem.

JoystiqMario Kart Wii allows for 12-player online racing originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Oct 2007 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsmario-kartmario-kart-wiimariokartnintendowiiThu, 11 Oct 2007 19:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Kart Wii to support 12-player racing online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/11/mario-kart-wii-to-support-12-player-racing-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/11/mario-kart-wii-to-support-12-player-racing-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/11/mario-kart-wii-to-support-12-player-racing-online/#commentsFiled under: ,


With the emergence of bikes in the franchise, it looks like change is the order of the day. And changes are happening, as we finally have confirmation that the title will feature online play for up to 12 participants. While it isn't the 16-player support rumored some time ago, it's still something we're glad to see Nintendo do, considering that their support of their online service has been lukewarm at best.

Hints were placed that a more streamlined process regarding finding racers and setting matches up would be utilized, but no word as of the time of this post regarding that. And, we think we join the rest of the sane world in asking Nintendo not to burden us with a string of numbers known as the friend code.

JoystiqMario Kart Wii to support 12-player racing online originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Oct 2007 16:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mariokartmkwiimultiplayerracingwiiwheelThu, 11 Oct 2007 16:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Kart Wii just got a bit less kartish]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/10/mario-kart-wii-just-got-a-bit-less-kartish/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/10/mario-kart-wii-just-got-a-bit-less-kartish/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/10/mario-kart-wii-just-got-a-bit-less-kartish/#commentsFiled under: ,


If you're a Nintendo fan, today has been one hell of a ride. Now, we find out that Mario Kart Wii will feature bikes, contradicting the very game itself (it is kart racing, afterall). Still, variety is the spice of life, so we're not complaining. Well, actually, we'd like to complain just a bit about the release date being bumped back to Spring 2008, but we guess you can't rush greatness.

Also, a low quality trailer (via Go Nintendo) can be found past the post break.

Continue reading Mario Kart Wii just got a bit less kartish

JoystiqMario Kart Wii just got a bit less kartish originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Oct 2007 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mariomariokartpeachracingWed, 10 Oct 2007 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy presents: Game Night 9/13/07]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/13/ds-fanboy-presents-game-night-9-13-07/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/13/ds-fanboy-presents-game-night-9-13-07/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/13/ds-fanboy-presents-game-night-9-13-07/#commentsFiled under:


This week has been a close race in determining what our theme game will be for tonight. And, if you're a regular here at Game Night, you're likely already forming a picture of what games are running at the top of the pack. So, let's not waste time. Head past the break and get all of the details you need.

Continue reading DS Fanboy presents: Game Night 9/13/07

JoystiqDS Fanboy presents: Game Night 9/13/07 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Sep 2007 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clubhousegamesmariokartmetroidprimehunterspicrossplanetpuzzleleaguepokemontetrisThu, 13 Sep 2007 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy presents: Game Night 9/6/07 aftermath]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/07/ds-fanboy-presents-game-night-9-6-07-aftermath/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/07/ds-fanboy-presents-game-night-9-6-07-aftermath/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/07/ds-fanboy-presents-game-night-9-6-07-aftermath/#commentsFiled under:


Last night's Game Night was kind of a bust, we must admit. There wasn't that great a turnout and connection problems plagued the participants. But, hey, that's life; we can't control everything. But, there's always next week to look forward to. And, it's also time to reset the poll, so let's get to it!

What should be our theme game for 9/13/07?
Pokemon Diamond & Pearl
Mario Kart DS
Picross DS
Planet Puzzle League
Clubhouse Games
Tetris DS
Metroid Prime Hunters

JoystiqDS Fanboy presents: Game Night 9/6/07 aftermath originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Sep 2007 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clubhousegamesmariokartmetroidprimehunterspicrossplanetpuzzleleaguepokemontetrisFri, 07 Sep 2007 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Mario Kart Wii to have 16 players online, updated DS tracks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/06/rumor-mario-kart-wii-to-have-16-players-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/06/rumor-mario-kart-wii-to-have-16-players-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/06/rumor-mario-kart-wii-to-have-16-players-online/#commentsFiled under:


According to some scans found over at the Mario Kart Wii forums, there is a whole slew of features that are set to rock our socks when the game releases. ONM speculates that the game will feature 16-player online functionality, as well as graphically-updated versions of maps from the DS game.

Of course, such information couldn't be reported without the whole internet going bananas. And, ONM (with their bucket loads of integrity) had to shoot all of our hopes and dreams to the ground, as they stated that "details printed in Official Nintendo Magazine 21 regarding Mario Kart Wii were healthy speculation on our part and are in no way an official announcement from Nintendo." They further add that they "are sorry if we have mislead anyone. We do not set out to mislead our readers. ONM apologises profusely for any misunderstandings that this has caused."

If they didn't intend to mislead their readers, then why would they print the information as fact? Clearly, they think this information is legit, otherwise they wouldn't have printed it. But, then again, it is ONM ...

[Thanks, Ian!]

JoystiqRumor: Mario Kart Wii to have 16 players online, updated DS tracks originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Sep 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mariokartThu, 06 Sep 2007 10:30:00 EST