- Release Date: August 28, 2001
- Genre: Racing
- Style: Go-Kart Racing
- Similar Games: Konami Krazy Racers (Game Boy Advance), Nicktoons Racing (Game Boy Advance)
Game Description
More than just a retread of Super Mario Kart or Mario Kart 64, Mario Kart Super Circuit is a completely new title that combines elements of both its predecessors as well as adding new features unique to the Game Boy Advance. Single players can compete in the multi-cup Mario GP, race against the clock in Time Trial, or speed around any track in the Quick Run mode. 50cc, 100cc, and 150cc engine classes are available, with each class containing five cups, the last of which is unlocked only after earning trophies in the first four. The cast of eight playable characters consists of Mario, Luigi, Peach, Toad, Yoshi, Donkey Kong, Wario, and Bowser.Multiplayer-only modes include Vs., in which up to four players compete in a standard race with a choice of any character and all tracks, and Battle, a four-player skirmish where the goal is to pop your opponents' balloons. Two players can also play Mario GP simultaneously. These multiplayer modes require each player to have a copy of the game, but for those not so fortunate, the Single-Pak Multiplayer mode lets up to four players link up with only one cartridge. This mode has players racing differently colored Yoshis with a choice of four tracks in a five-lap competition.
~ Skyler Miller, All Game Guide
Review: Overall
If Mario Kart Super Circuit had been an exact clone of Super Mario Kart, that in itself would have been a remarkable achievement. But amazingly, the game exceeds both its Super NES and Nintendo 64 ancestors, making it a serious contender for the best kart-racer yet released. While the genre was essentially played out by a host of imitators and copycats, Mario Kart Super Circuit reinvigorates the tired kart-racing formula by pairing it down to its essence and then refining it to a heavenly state.The "feel" of the game is what immediately stands out. The karts respond just the way you want them to, so acceleration, braking, and turning are easily mastered. Power-slides are awkward, though, since they require the R button, which is also used for jumping. But the learning curve is perfectly tweaked, as it lets you win early on and slowly increases the difficulty level as you progress through each cup and engine class. Power-ups function both offensive and defensively, and play the right role -- they're necessary to win but don't replace solid driving skills.
Everything about Mario Kart Super Circuit exudes quality. From the animated menus to the colorful instruction manual, an extraordinary amount of attention was paid to every detail of the overall presentation. The beautifully realized track designs go beyond standard forest and desert-based levels to include creative environments like Cheese Land and Ribbon Road, with rain even falling on one track. Different music plays on each stage and is content specific, so there are spooky noises on a ghost track and tribal rhythms in the jungle. The overall effect is that you never feel like you're playing the same courses over and over again. Each is distinct with its own personality.
The wealth of available modes only enhances an already solid package. Beyond the long-term challenge of Mario GP, the Time Trial mode adds considerable replay value because of its option to save ghost racers of your best times and trade them with other players. This doesn't even begin to scratch the surface of the multiplayer options, which can be played either with multiple or single game paks.
With a wealth of 8-bit and 16-bit remakes available at its launch, the Game Boy Advance looked to be in danger of becoming a dumping ground for classic favorites. But Mario Kart Super Circuit proves that an excellent older game can be the jumping off point for an even better one.
~ Skyler Miller, All Game Guide
Review: Enjoyment
You'd be hard-pressed to find a more enjoyable gaming experience. This is kart-racing at its best.~ Skyler Miller, All Game Guide
Review: Graphics
The ingenious track designs are rendered with smooth scrolling and an amazing array of colors.~ Skyler Miller, All Game Guide
Review: Sound
Excellent use of varied music, sound effects, and individual character voices really show off the auditory capabilities of the system.~ Skyler Miller, All Game Guide
Review: Replay Value
The Mario GP mode by itself will keep you busy, and once you add the Time Trial and multiplayer modes, {*Mario Kart Super Circuit} offers long-term playability.~ Skyler Miller, All Game Guide
Review: Documentation
The full-color manual is a pleasure to read. Clear, concise instructions detail each mode, item, and special technique, as well as how to set up a multiplayer game.~ Skyler Miller, All Game Guide
Copyright © 2012 All Media Guide, LLC. Content provided by All Game Guide ®, a trademark of All Media Guide, LLC. All rights reserved.
