While the game is arguably developed with multiplayer in mind, there are a robust series of options for single players to enjoy. In the single-player campaign, players choose from one of 24 characters (12 of which have to be unlocked) and then select one of three Grand Prix classes. The 50 cc class finds the player racing through all 32 tracks using karts only. The 100 cc introduces motor bikes — with all characters racing on different variations of these two-wheelers. The final class, the 150 cc, combines all vehicles. As you move up through these Grand Prix classes, the speed of the vehicles is increased as well. Players are awarded a trophy (Bronze, Silver or Gold) and a rating based on how they performed. Success in the Grand Prix mode is the key to unlocking several of the new characters and vehicles — including Mii support.

The gameplay should prove very familiar to fans of the series. The player is pitted in a three-lap race within a field of 12 competitors on a variety of twisting, turning tracks. The player must jockey for position with the other racers, picking up offensive and defensive weapons (such as banana peels or turtle shields) and race to the finish. While fending off the competition’s advances and attacks, the player needs to contend with various environmental factors such as leaping lava streams and the lunging Chain Chomps that adorn some tracks.

While the game offers local multiplayer, with the usual assortment of straight up race and battle modes for splitscreen action, the real meat can be found by employing the built in Wi-Fi connection and playing through Nintendo’s free online service. A few games (including Super Smash Brothers) have embraced online multiplayer, but Mario Kart Wii seems to offer the most complete package to date.

As part of their online strategy, Nintendo has also launched a new channel specific to this game. Players who load the Mario Kart Channel to the system’s dashboard can access their friend’s list to see if anyone is playing as well as view the online leaderboards. In addition, saved “ghosts” can be uploaded or downloaded from the channel. Nintendo has also begun offering special global tournaments through the channel. Since the game’s April release, Nintendo has promoted a couple tournaments, with the latest released on June 3rd featuring a brand new track based on Super Mario Galaxy.