Mario Kart returns in another great sequel, but other than new tracks and characters its virutally the same game.
The new tracks I have to say are my favorite batch so far. They are varied, challenging, and well-designed. Some tracks are so large that rather doing three laps, you do one lap with the track being split into parts so it feels like you are still crossing the finish like three times.
Four extra cups contain old tracks updated to the new gameplay style and mechanics. Compared to Mario Kart Wii however, the rubber-banding the CPU opponents do have been toned down; somewhat. So the 150cc races arent so ridiculous. However the CPU are smarter this time. They can save the lightning and use it at the wrong time when you are over a pit, so you fall and lose your item and some coins. They also have a tendency to save defensive shells or bananas for when you fire a shell at them and block it.
The horrible Blue Shell returns and how often you see it entirely depends on luck. I could go some races without seeing it once, and other times I would get hit by three in one lap.
Graphics 8- MK7 looks even better than MKWii does. It has better lighting and shading on those small screens. Each track has a distinct style with lots of color. Characters are also more detailed along with the karts themselves. The 3D effect really adds to the driving to enhance the experience. Overall this is the best-looking MK yet!
Sound 7- Basically everything in the audio department is reused in some form. The new tracks have remixed music, and the old ones tend to have reused old music.
Fun Factor 8- Overall this game is as fun as any in the series with the added dimension of depth and tilt controls if you so choose. Local multiplayer is great but the online community is terrible. Race against people that have a grudge against what character you are playing and they will do all they can to harass you for whatever reason.
Replay Value 7- As always, how much time you spend with any given Mario Kart game is how much you have others to play it with. Online is more seamless but jsut beware the community. There is a reason to keep playing solo though, collect coins during races and once you pass a threshold number you unlock a new kart piece.
Final Score- 38/50