First things first. Due to short supply in Japan and the heavy demand around
the world for this title, our company has been forced to raise the price of
this game due to a higher purchase price. One way that buyers can sort of
rationalize the price is that they at least get something extra for it. We
have negotiated for the best price based on the quantities that we are
bringing in but even so, looking at the price, it is a bit high. NCS tries
to maintain a price parity between Japanese and American software but in
this case, it was impossible. It is not often that a game's price closes in
on it's console's price but hopefully this will be a one time holiday
aberration.
The Mario Kart 64 package includes a black/gray controller that may be considered a bonus for the premium that you are paying. The controller looks like a standard pad except for its duo-tone color. The Mario Kart 64 game and pad is compatible with the upcoming Nintendo 64 accessory that shakes and rattles the controller pad when you hit bumps in the road. This accessory is due out by January '97 and should add a whole new feel to racing games on the N64. Many of the racing and flight games that are slated for release next year will support this rattle feature. This article will be updated on Tuesday with a full review of this monster.
