Mario Kart 64, Let's do this.

I have always loved the Mario series, whether it be the damsel in distress story line, or the fast paced run-n-jump mechanics. This although, is no ordinary Mario game. Mario Kart combines a racing game, with the Mario universe. Mario Kart introduces an item system in which you can throw hysterical items at your opponents to keep them off your tail. The higher place you are in the race, the less invigorating items you will receive. But if you fall behind, you can acquire a super powerful item that helps you take back your rightful place in 1st!

The graphics on this game are phenomenal. Along side with Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, this is one of the few N64 games with a take on 3 dimensional worlds. The kart sounds and visuals feel realistic, to the point of tires screeching on hot asphalt and black smoke rising from beneath your wheels. The stages are pulled straight from other Mario games, with their own twist, along with enemies that serve as obstacles. I praise this game for the extreme fun that comes out of these tracks. Rainbow Road, Bowser's Castle, all give an ambient feel that makes the player feel excitement and a rush of adrenaline when trying to pass 1st place.

I could LITERALLY play this game all day, and sometimes I do. Out of all the Mario Kart games, this one is my 3rd favorite, right there next to Mario Kart 7 for 3DS and Mario Kart Wii. This may be an older and outdated game, but it holds up next to other great titles. I highly suggest firing up the ol' emulator and giving this game a run. The future Mario Kart games are improvements upon this one, (better graphics, more powerful tracks, more character options) but this game is fun nonetheless. 

While this game doesn't have much story (as it is a racing game), the depth is amazing. While that may not make a ton of sense, allow me to explain. The story is practically non-existent, but the stages and tracks are immersive and addictive! You might just find yourself playing the same track over and over again for the experiences. For example, rainbow road. If there was ever a more fast paced and highly endangering stage, it must be unused content because rainbow road is the definition of epic. You will find yourself riding a rainbow track, while hitting boost plates that speed you up massively. The risk of falling off the rainbow is great, which is why you have to go slow, yet keep up the pace. This track is a perfect example of the potential Mario Kart withholds. 

The game isn't very difficult, unless you bump it up yourself a bit. Character size (believe it or not) actually makes a difference. Characters like Wario or Bowser can push the smaller characters around, like Mario and Luigi. While bigger can be better, smaller is more agile. You will find better handling on smaller characters, along with acceleration and speed.

Overall, Mario Kart 64 is a 9.7 in my book. I can barely think of a con for this game. Possibly, they could have buffed the car handling overall, but skidding, (a mechanic in which you can DRASTICALLY change your kart's direction with major speed) allows you to cut corners and turns on the tracks. So honestly, all my complaints are put down by another mechanic. As I previously stated, this game holds up for its time. I still play to this day, and I honestly love Luigi. I highly recommend this game for any Mario lover, or racer lover. You will find the humorous take on a racing game adds an addictive factor. Run this emulator and enjoy yourself for what I praise to be one of the greatest games on the N64. 

Nice job on this review. You were very detailed and you elaborated on all of the major points of focus for this game and you also went as far as providing another game for comparison. I think this extra step is an effective tool for providing a means in which you can convince the reader to play the game by comparing it with other well known games. 

Overall, you have all the major key components to writing a good review down. The only other thing I would suggest is perhaps putting the category heading in your review above your summary and opinion of that portion of the game. For instance: 

Graphics: 

The graphics of this game were....

You don't have to do this though. I just think it adds to professional review. Nonetheless, I think you did a good job with this review and I hope to read more reviews from you in the future. 

Thank you for the feedback. Constructive criticism is good for progress. I'm glad you enjoyed and I'll try your suggestion. It sounds like a good idea. I appreciate your reply. c:

While I agree with Razor that "explicit" division  usually makes for a review to be clearer, the way YOU wrote your review was still pretty clear. The first sentence states out clearly what you will be talking about.

It's well-detailed and you give a few comparisons to other games, making it easy to know how the game compares to other games of the time.

janus : Thank you. I'm trying to improve as quick as possible. I'll soon be revising my other reviews as well, to keep up a reputation as a review writer. I know my reviews aren't as lengthy as the could be, but I feel it is a quick and simplistic way to get my opinion and review out to the people reading. Otherwise, I understand the concern there. I appreciate the criticism. It has helped me improve on my writing skill and paragraph structure.