Nintendo - Super Mario Kart (1992), 6/10

One of the flagship titles on the Super Nintendo, Super Mario Kart is a classic formula that has been reiterated but never truly reshaped. It would be insincere to evaluate the game with a serious amount of depth, however, as the game is shaped with simplicity in mind and this works substantially to its advantage. The cast of characters is varied enough and their sprites were created with attention to detail, even within the character selection and map displays. The maps themselves each have a unique feel and artistic quality in the tracks, backgrounds, characters, and items. The panels may stem from a technological limitation, but they are a great feature in a game that relies on ground contact for speed.

The maps of this original title are still being reissued through modern iterations of the Mario Kart franchise for good reason. The maps originate from Mario levels or locations, Donut Plains and Koopa Beach are some of the most memorable and well-executed, yet they all have good qualities that make them worth revisiting, which is ideal considering the game is best enjoyed when replayed in succession. The cc difficulty system is great for new players, but caps out at a rather difficult 150cc experience, which is unlocked after winning all 100cc races. While later titles are somewhat gimmicky in their 150cc difficulty, the raw difficulty of this maximum setting feels like an actual test of skill which is refreshing. There is no reason to skip the rather essential first Mario Kart title for the Super Nintendo.