No one ever expected it to become such a big craze. It was only a small tournament between friends and foes, yet it somehow gained the spotlight worldover. It seemed like only yesterday that Mario suggested that the gang try out bikes for a change. Was it risky, yes, but did it pay off in the end? Of course. Now that was a decade ago, and Mario Kart as a brand has grown substantially since then. Sponsorships, a dedicated TV network, and even an entire stadium on top of that? It's scary how quickly things can change, and I'd be lying if I didn't say that I was nostalgic for those simpler times.
Many trophies align my shelf, yet they are just cups of metal. What truly matters are the memories that they hold. From our first race on the new pavement of Luigi Circuit back in '08, to the time Wario swerved into a bomb car on Moonview Highway by accident. I've long since hung up my racing suit and gloves and my kart hasn't been touched in years, but I feel as if I could return at any time and I'd feel right at home. I guess Mario Kart truly is truly timeless in every sense of the word.
Where did the time go? Has it really been a decade already? Will I ever kart again?
An ode to:
Luigi Circuit: May your blimps continue to rule the skies.
Moo Moo Meadows: May your bovine graze for years to come.
Mushroom Gorge: May your mushroom stalks rise high and stand as a testament to all who gaze upon them.
Toad's Factory: May you continue to produce item boxes and bring smiles to many around the world for years to come.
Mario Circuit: May your castle rule over the land with fairness and wisdom.
Coconut Mall: May you continue to dazzle the masses with your magnificent storefronts and amenities.
DK Summit: May your slopes stay ever frosty and function as a gateway to a wintry paradise.
Wario's Gold Mine: May you continue to employ hundreds and contribute to the economy.
Daisy Circuit: May your yachts continue to float ever so gracefully upon your golden waters.
Koopa Cape: May you stay ever aquatic and fresh for many years to come.
Maple Treeway: May your leaves continue to act as a natural testament to the beauty of nature.
Grumble Volcano: May your lava flows continue to inflame the hearts of all who gaze upon its fiery peaks.
Dry Dry Ruins: May your ruins continue to educate us on our past and may they stay preserved for future generations.
Moonview Highway: May your hustle and bustle of everyday life show us to take life slowly and to enjoy every moment of it.
Bowser's Castle: May your fierce depths stand as testament to evildoers everywhere that we strive for peace and not war.
Rainbow Road: May you gaze down upon our planet in favor and may you continue to shine as a beacon of hope throughout the night sky forever.