Super Mario Kart was an early Super Nintendo game that took full advantage of the mode 7 graphics chip. It was the first Mario Kart game and had several games after it. Now the series is on every Nintendo system which means that its very popular.

GAMEPLAY: Not only is the gameplay simple, but it is innovative. Back in 1992, you would3 not see games like this. There are plenty of power ups from shells to bananas, ghosts to lightning bolts, and of course there's the mushrooms that give you a boost and the star which makes you invincible. So you have all the weapons you need without the stupid bullet bill or blue spiky shell. There is also coins scattered across the tracks if you pick up 10 coins you will reach your maximum speed. If you hit an opponent without any coins, you will spin out so make sure you keep a coin or two handy. The controls are great and responsive but navigating the courses is a little tough. 

GRAPHICS: Since the mode 7 chip is in the game. You see actual tracks and scenery. Even though the tracks are flat, and you don't see a whole lot of different tracks. The graphics are still impressive.

SOUND: I have heard better music from the SNES. The music is still great though for an early SNES title. The soundtrack is upbeat and fun and adds a whole lot of excitement to the races. The sound effects are pretty impressive too. 

ADDICTIVENESS: Like all Mario Kart games this one is addicting. Even though I had a slightly harder time winning the races. I still wanted to keep trying and trying until I got that trophy. With the two player options you will also be glued to the game. I like this games addictiveness. It is really important in all games. 

DEPTH: There's a lot to do in this game. There are 20 tracks and 4 battle courses. That may not seem like a lot of battle courses but I enjoyed playing head to head on those battle courses. There are 8 characters to choose from. Mario, Luigi, Peach, Toad, Yoshi, Donkey Kong Jr, and Bowser. Each character has it's own driving style. Big characters like Donkey Kong Jr and Bowser can knock over their opponents. 

DIFFICULTY: This Mario Kart is the hardest on I played in the series. First off you have lives and if you get in 5th place or below you lose a life and you have to start over if you lose all your lives you have to start over the whole circuit. Second I found steering and navigating the tracks a lot harder then usual. So if your looking for a challenge play this game.

OVERALL RATING 8.9