A highly underrated Kart racing classic for the Nintendo 64.
Graphically, DKR shows high quality level environments, and steady frame rates. It does not matter if you're zipping through Hot Top Volcano's lava streams or power driving through Walrus Cove's massive ice ring, you will not encounter any slow downs. Track designs show excellent detail you can appreciate even as you find yourself falling into a river because you did not see the bridge up ahead. The character models also show a nice creative touch.
The audio is well integrated into the game. The tunes blend in with their corresponding tracks quite nicely. The beach themed levels have nice Carribean style music, and the village themed tracks have a great medieval beat. Characters also make noises while the race goes on. Very typical of many racing games, however it can get a little annoying. Gameplay can become a little bit repetitive, as each world pretty much follows the same pattern: beat all the tracks, race the boss, get the silver coins on all tracks, race the boss again. If you want, you can find a hidden key on each world and unlock a minigame for that world. Also a trophy race is available after you beat the boss a second time. A trophy race is basically a run through every track, except the A.I. is more challenging and it's based on a point system. Experienced gamers will find this title extremely easy, and it will take a very short time period to complete it. Luckily there are a few unlockables but I won't ruin the surprise.
Overall, this game offers a great experience. If you're a Mario Kart Fan, chances are you will enjoy this title as much as Mario Kart 64. Younger kids will get the most out of DKR, but no matter how old you are, its always satisfying to blast a homing missile down the track and watch the kart ahead of you fly in the air as you pass them!