Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Every new Mario Kart game comes with its own gimmick of sorts, whether its the introduction of motion controls on the Wii iteration, or the pairing up of riders on the Gamecube's Double Dash; but this new Switch release does more than introduce gimmicks, it improves the entire system. Even compared to its previous release on the Wii U, this game kicks it up a notch! Small improvements including the return of old mystery box items and the ability to carry multiple items at a time are appreciated, but the real fun comes with the major additions -- with my attention immediately gravitating towards the full-fledged battle mode with 5 different battle options and 8 new/returning arenas that allow for some amazing multiplayer mayhem.

Beyond the improvements this game boasts, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a solid entry into the Nintendo Switch's growing library. It acts as the perfect pick-up-and-play option, allowing for Switch owners like myself to bond with others through a quick race or competetive battle. Thanks to the portability and power of the Switch, not only can this title be taken anywhere, but it can also be set up for single-console multiplayer, two options previously exclusive of one another. Because of this advantage, I regard Mario Kart 8 Deluxe as not only the most convenient release in the series, but also the best. If I had to recommend only one title in the entire franchise, this would hands-down be my choice.
The game can be purchased for Nintendo Switch at this link (as of 8/19/2017): http://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/mario-kart-8-deluxe-switch

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