PixlBit

One problem I have noticed with reviewing games is that you sometimes have to put a lot of filler into what you write. Some games it just flows naturally, The Last of Us and Saints Row 4 I had to cut myself really short for instance. But established series like Mario Kart which always refine and polish what you previously have? There's not that much to talk about. So I'm going to put the meat and potatoes, here's five ways 8 improves on the MK formula.

5. Only 1 SNES/GBA course respectively

The 3D courses are just better. We don't want to see the 2D ones in 3D Marios, it just points out how they don't fit with these more complex mechanics. So minimizing these works very well for this game. And even the two that show up are vastly improved thanks to...

4. Remade Retro Courses

This was kind of hinted at in Mario Kart 7, yet restricted primarily to just added underwater and hangglider segments. 8 not only adds in the anti-gravity mechanics, but will tweak the entire look and feel to better suit its game. A track previously had a terribly implemented turn for instance? Fixed. Add in how many levels such as Tick Tock Clock have a wonderful amount of fun stuff going on and retro courses have never been better.

3. Better distribution of powers

One issue I had with Mario Kart was how I would never get anything even semi-useful if I was in first place, which I would usually spend much of my time offline. Here, I have got Golden Mushrooms and Stars in third while also snagging three Red Shells in first. I'm fine with restricting items a little based on what place you're in, but 8 does not go even close to the same kind of extremes past MK titles did. 

2. Less rubber bandy AI

AI makes mistakes if you're in first. AI is aggressive if you're in last. That's how to design a racing game.

1. The Super Horn

This item emits a sound wave when you use it to knock everyone back. Why is this such a big deal? First off, you can get this item even when you're in first place semi-regularly. Second, because if a blue shell is near it destroys the blue shell. Yes, there is now a semi-reliable way to keep blue shells from hitting you! Best Mario Kart ever!