Today’s game is some Mario Kart 64. I had a long day and wanted to take it easy, so i did a few races. It was easy up until Banshee boardwalk. Still, it was nice. I’ve always had a soft spot for DK Jungle Parkway especially (i have a soft spot for like all the tracks though) because of this bridge + waterfall. For some reason younger me was enamored with waterfalls. No clue why, though it would later bloom into my opinion on different game’s waters.

I also did rainbow road (of course), my absolute favorite of all the tracks. I’ve said it before but i love how long it is. I put myself on time trials so i wasn’t racing anyone, then i could just kick back and enjoy the drive. It was relaxing. It’s like my version of going for a drive in the rain, you know?

And of course, if i’m doing Rainbow Road, i couldn’t forget about Toad’s Turnpike. I love the original, something about it feels nostalgic for some reason. Like driving in the car late at night on the highway. My family traveled a lot growing up so i suppose im familiar with the sight.

Finally, i wanted to end off with Yoshi Valley. I love that this map doesn’t know how to keep track of the racers. It basically throws it’s hands in the air and goes “i don’t fucking know man” and leaves you to figure it out yourself. It makes for a fun challenge and when you’ve got friends playing too the challenge amps up with how hectic the curves and stuff can get.

I wouldn’t be surprised if this is all nothing new, i’m sure this is nothing new to anyone, but this game was such a foundational part of growing up even though i’m removed from the generation it was made for. I just have a lot of praise for this game i suppose.