A new DS title has made its way to the Japanese Wii U’s Virtual Console, and it’s one of my favorites! Available now is Mario Kart DS, the 2005 handheld mega-hit that managed to be the go-to multiplayer title in my high school days. While the Virtual Console release is sans-multiplayer and has been available overseas for over a year, the Japanese release is enough to get me excited to play it again after all this time.
The track selection, character roster, and unlockable karts were all on point. Standouts include the first time Dry Bones could get behind the wheel and the introduction of Waluigi Pinball to the world. A new Mission Mode added a fun single player diversion as well, urging players to complete unique challenges in record time. Likewise, the Retro Grand Prix brought a fantastic assortment of classic tracks to the DS, effectively doubling the number of raceways and cups. This set a precedent for future titles and paved the way for the likes of Mario Kart 8.
If you’ve never given this one a shot, definitely consider it– available now for $9.99 in the Wii U Virtual Console in America, Europe, Australia, and now Japan.
Written by Ricky Berg
When he isn’t writing for Nintendo Wire, Ricky’s anticipating the next Kirby, Fire Emblem, or if the stars ever align, Mother 3 to be released. Till then he’ll have the warm comfort of Super Smash Bros. to keep him going.
