abstract
| - The Mario Kart series is also known for its strong emphasis on multiplayer. Each entry in the franchise supports multiplayer to at least some extent, with the majority supporting at least four players at a time. Recent games in the series have incorporated online play, in which eight or more people may race simultaneously. Most console Mario Kart entries introduce at least one new concept to the series. The original Super Mario Kart founded the franchise, Mario Kart 64 brought it into the third dimension and increased the player limit to four, Mario Kart: Double Dash allowed for cooperative play, and Mario Kart X was the first console entry to use online play. The handheld entries, though typically more conservative, still add new elements, including Mario Kart 3D, which expanded upon online play and added gliding and underwater mechanics. Games in the Mario Kart introduce a total of at least four new cups divided into four unique tracks each. These tracks are typically themed based on characters and places in the Mario universe. In recent entries, older tracks have reappeared as additional Retro courses, which are re-imagined to take advantage of new racing mechanics. In addition to typical Grand Prix mode, which places players in the standard cup of four tracks, several other modes typically appear. Time Trials test the players' speed and knowledge of the race courses. VS mode allows for customizable rules. Battle mode emphasizes item use over reaching a finish line.
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