Podcast Summary: Game Scoop! 814: So Is Mario Kart World Worth $80?
Release Date: June 13, 2025
Hosts: Damon Hadfield, Sam Claiborne, Justin Davis
Guest: Logan Plant
Introduction
In Episode 814 of Game Scoop!, host Damon Hadfield alongside Sam Claiborne, Justin Davis, and special guest Logan Plant delve into the latest in the gaming world. The primary focus centers around the newly released Mario Kart World, its value proposition at an $80 price tag, alongside discussions on the recently announced ROG Xbox Ally X handheld and insights into Resident Evil 9: Requiem.
Mario Kart World Review
Gameplay and Single-Player Challenges
Mario Kart World, now a week old, has stirred varied opinions among the hosts. Logan Plant initially rated the game an 8, symbolizing its $80 value. Damon shares his enthusiasm, stating, "I've been playing it a lot and I am enjoying it" (00:38), but seeks broader perspectives from his co-hosts.
Sam Claiborne highlights the single-player P Switch challenges, noting their engaging nature: "There's a little bit more to those single player challenges than I was expecting" (03:14). The challenges are well-balanced in difficulty, offering players a mix of exploration and mini-tasks akin to games like Forza.
Open World Design and Tracking Issues
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around Mario Kart World's open-world design. Sam points out the lack of a tracking system for P Switch challenges: "There's no checklist of them. I don't know how many in the game... the map is useless" (05:17). This absence leads to an aimless gameplay experience, potentially diminishing long-term engagement.
Justin Davis elaborates on this flaw: "If you want to 100% it, you have to use a guide that's interactive with an interactive map or interactive checklist" (05:37). The group concurs that while the game offers a vast open world, the navigation tools fall short, making it challenging for players aiming for complete mastery.
Comparison with Previous Mario Kart and Other Open World Games
The hosts compare Mario Kart World’s open-world approach to The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, praising the latter's robust and intuitive world design. Damon muses, "I like the open world in Breath of the Wild, like you can gaze out in the distance and you see a huge structure" (07:04), suggesting that Mario Kart World could benefit from a similar intuitive exploration framework.
Logan reflects nostalgically, "If I had this when I was a kid... like summer vacation, this would probably be the greatest thing I've ever played" (06:16), emphasizing the game's potential in fostering creative play.
Value Proposition ($80 Price)
The central debate revolves around whether Mario Kart World justifies its $80 price. Logan expresses reservations: "I think it's missing a lot... for a first $80 game, I think it's a little light on stuff" (15:29). He contrasts it with Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, which offered more content at a lower price point.
Justin Davis offers a critical viewpoint: "I don't think any game is worth $80... and this game isn't like showing us something that can't be done in a $60 game" (17:56). The consensus leans towards the game not delivering sufficient value to warrant the increased cost, despite its entertaining gameplay mechanics.
Nintendo Switch 2 and Game Upgrades
The conversation shifts to the Nintendo Switch 2, with the hosts sharing their excitement over enhanced visuals in classic titles. Logan proudly states, "I played Super Mario Odyssey on Switch 2, and it looks almost like a brand new game" (23:24). Damon echoes this sentiment, highlighting the improved frame rates and graphics quality: "It's running at 4K 60, which is less of a feat for that game" (24:38).
The group discusses how these upgrades breathe new life into beloved games, making them comparable to next-generation titles and enhancing the overall gaming experience on the Switch 2 platform.
Listener Interaction: Starting with Nintendo Games
The hosts address an email from a listener, Eden R from Sydney, Australia, who is new to Nintendo systems and seeks recommendations on where to start. Sam suggests a curated path:
-
The Legend of Zelda:
- Start with the original on NES.
- Progress to A Link to the Past on SNES.
- Conclude with Breath of the Wild.
-
Mario Franchise:
- Begin with Super Mario Brothers.
- Move to Super Mario World on SNES.
- Advance to Super Mario Odyssey, deemed the best 3D platformer by Damon (29:26).
Additional recommendations include Metroid, Donkey Kong for Game Boy, and Punch Out, ensuring a comprehensive introduction to Nintendo's flagship titles.
ROG Xbox Ally X Handheld
The newly announced ROG Xbox Ally X handheld garners attention. Sam expresses interest but mentions owning a Steam Deck: "I'm going to pull the trigger on one of these days" (39:28). Damon shares his satisfaction with his Switch 2's performance and questions the necessity of upgrading from his current handheld.
The discussion touches on the competitive landscape of handheld gaming PCs, emphasizing the ROG Xbox Ally X’s potential but also noting its likely high price point (estimated between $700-$900).
Resident Evil 9: Requiem
The hosts pivot to the announcement of Resident Evil 9: Requiem. Addressing its dual first and third-person perspectives, Justin Davis remarks on the potential for varied gameplay experiences: "Matt says that it feels scary in two different ways" (45:22). Sam concurs, hoping the game maintains the series' signature horror elements without becoming a "jack of all trades."
Logan discusses potential strategic elements, comparing it to different modes: "Different level of strategy with the items" (12:54). The group remains cautiously optimistic, acknowledging Capcom's strong track record while expressing hope for a compelling and cohesive game.
Video Game 20 Questions Segment
The 20 Questions segment features a listener-suggested game: Nintendo Switch 2's Welcome to Tour. The game, a $10 downloadable title, involves motion controls and interactive tutorials. Despite initial skepticism about its sales potential, listener Rob Shelby updates that it became the "number three purchase and number one digital-only purchase on launch day" (74:26).
The hosts humorously discuss the game's quirky nature and its place in the Switch 2 lineup, acknowledging its role in familiarizing players with new hardware features.
Political Poll Results: Favorite Nintendo Console Generation
A recent poll asked listeners to rank their favorite Nintendo console generations. Results were surprising:
- Super Nintendo – 30%
- Nintendo 64 – 28%
- GameCube – 17%
- Switch – 13%
- NES – 6%
- Wii – <5%
Hosts express astonishment, particularly over the Switch placing fourth despite its recent success and beloved titles. Logan attributes the low Wii ranking to underperforming franchises like Mario Galaxy and Skyward Sword, while Justin and Sam share nostalgic fondness for the Nintendo 64 and Super Nintendo, highlighting iconic games like Mario 64, Ocarina of Time, and Perfect Dark.
Closing Remarks
The episode concludes with the hosts reflecting on the lively discussions and expressing gratitude towards their audience. Damon commends the team and acknowledges the success of IGN Live, emphasizing the community's role in making the podcast engaging and informative.
Notable Quotes:
- Damon Hadfield (00:38): "I've been playing it a lot and I am enjoying it."
- Sam Claiborne (03:14): "There's a little bit more to those single player challenges than I was expecting."
- Justin Davis (05:37): "If you want to 100% it, you have to use a guide that's interactive with an interactive map or interactive checklist."
- Logan Plant (15:29): "I think it's missing a lot... for a first $80 game, I think it's a little light on stuff."
- Justin Davis (17:56): "I don't think any game is worth $80... and this game isn't like showing us something that can't be done in a $60 game."
Conclusion
Episode 814 of Game Scoop! provides an in-depth analysis of Mario Kart World, questioning its $80 price tag against its content and gameplay experience. The hosts offer balanced perspectives, combining personal experiences with broader industry insights. Additionally, the episode touches upon significant announcements like the ROG Xbox Ally X and Resident Evil 9: Requiem, while engaging with listener feedback and interactive segments. The surprising poll results further highlight the diverse preferences within the Nintendo community, offering a nostalgic trip through the company's console history.