#116 Mario Kart: Double Dash

I'm usually not a fan of racing games, but Nintendo's incredibly fun (some say dumbed down) cart games have always been my faves. The formula is simple: players race in outlandish Super Mario settings against carts full of characters such as Wario, Toad, Koopa and Princess Peach. A wide variety of power ups and weapons can be found on each track to help turn the tide of the race. Last-minute, Hail Mary wins are not uncommon. Mario Kart: Double Dash can handle up to eight racers (that's with two Gamecube's connected via broadband). The game's new gimmick is an interesting 2-player option that allows one person to drive and the other to handle combat.

I'm currently fixated on unlocking all the vehicles and battle levels - an undertaking that results in plenty of late nights, sore wrists and cursing. With Mario Kart: Double Dash now available getting has never been better for those who don't have a Gamecube. With the console priced at $99 and a great catalogue of other first-party Nintendo titles out there (Metroid Prime, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, Super Mario Sunshine, Animal Crossing, Pikmin) snagging the purple box and a couple of these amazing games is a no-brainer.