With Wi-Fi connection for Nintendo DS, it really makes Mario Kart DS the best in the series.
Mario Kart DS follows the previous installment on the Gamecube; Double Dash, in terms of having similar game mode choices and artistic look. It also works in the similar way in terms of completing the game. As you keep succeeding in the Grand Prix mode, you will unlock new characters, karts and courses. The only thing Mario Kart DS lacks of is the variety of items. Double Dash was filled with unique and classic items while the DS has taken away the unique items and has left it with the ones everyone comes to expect form a Mario Kart game.
Although Mario Kart DS is lacking in variety of items, it makes up for it through its stunning and classical courses. As you play through the Grand Prix mode, you'll notice that there are two seperate rows; one for the new courses and the other is for past courses coming from all previous versions. All new courses will still impress fans as they sport a new look and feel, while the retro courses let you relive memories from past Mario Kart games. Although the selection for retro courses feel as if they were picked out of a lottery basket because some of the courses chosen are probably not the best.
Even if the courses are not to your standards, then what you'll really be impressed with is the online gaming capabilities thanks to the Wi-Fi connection system. Provided you have a wireless router of some sort, simply set up the connections and begin your online gaming experience. If you don't have a wireless system, don't threat as you can gather up to 8 of your DS buddies and connect each through the Wi-Fi system. As long as one of you owns the game then you are able to verse your friends in an all out driving frenzy.
Graphically, it looks quite better than what most people would expect coming from a handheld console. However, at some point in the game, you'll realise that some tracks or even the characters and karts are rigid and may or not affect your view on the game. It also runs quite smoothly with the controls adding that extra touch to heighten the experience. The use of the bottom screen also proves to be useful as its acts as a map which shows both the items that they hold and their position on the course.
The sound of Mario Kart DS is similar to that of its predecessors, which shouldn't offend those who have played the previous games. Both the background music and sound effects do what they are intended to do which is filling the void of silence. It works well and all new sounds will make the game more enjoyable.
Overall, Mario Kart DS packs a punch for so many reasons. New characters, Karts, courses and the Wi-Fi connection system will truly exceeds anyone expectation of this enjoyable game. However, you may feel limited if you are unable to access multiplayer mode as you can only play single player mode for so long.