Geek out with MarioKart64
By Bridget Rowan
There are a few things from growing up in the 90s that you just know were life altering cool — Razor scooters, Pokemon, Nickelodeon’s All That. Nothing comes close to the immeasurable awesomeness that is Super Mario Kart. Released in 1992, Super Mario Kart took the world by storm. Selling over 8 million copies worldwide and becoming the third best selling SNES game of all time. When its successor MarioKart64 was released in 1996 my world had changed and a deep appreciation for all things Yoshi began. This completely functioning adult decided to sport a Mario costume, consume copious amounts of Mountain Dew and dedicated an entire afternoon to this awesome game in the first annual Bookmans Retro Video Game Challenge. It was basically coolest thing I’ve ever done!
Bookmans Flagstaff Cafe brimmed with competitors for the first annual Retro Video Game Challenge. With Prizes provided by Bookmans and the Geekery and specialty drinks provided by the Cafe, this was one party you didn’t want to miss. Thirty two players gathered, all vying for the first place trophy, an old steering wheel consul that may or may not have been dipped in liquid gold. Our audience, on the edge of their seats, watched as competitors plummeted turtle shells and dropped banana peels trying to gain the upper hand.
The tournament progressed and the courses became more difficult until there were only four players competing for 1st, 2nd and 3rd. Third place would be decided in a battle royal round. The first person to successfully pop all three of their opponents balloons won and took home a $10 gift card and a periodic table of game controllers poster. This honor went to Duane.
Next was the final round between Devin and Ben. Our two competitors completed the four courses of the Special Cup on mirror mode making for one nail biting conclusion to our tournament. As confetti rained down and Princess Peach took her place on the podium, our standings were decided. Ben would take 2nd place receiving a hefty gift card to Bookmans and The Super Mario bros, Super Show on DVD. First place went to Devin, receiving gift cards for both Bookmans and the Geekery, a copy of the Avengers, Volume 1 and of course a 1st place trophy like no other.
Thank you to all who participated in the Retro Video Game Challenge. It was a blast and we hope to see you all again next year!
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