Diddy Kong Racing features attractive graphics, with each level displaying a sparkling amount of color and decent course design. The frame rate remains consistent, and some new character details were thrown in; if a competing rider gets hit with an attack, their face pops up in the corner, showing frustration. Likewise, if they hit a person's selected rider with an attack, they cheer as they move into the lead. However, fans of the original game may be disappointed with the character selection. Rare, likely because Microsoft publishes games with these characters, omitted Banjo (from Banjo Kazooie) and Conker (the squirrel who has since become a drunk).

Unfortunately, the audio also disappoints. Instead of keeping his usual goofy voice, Rare toned down Taj. He sounds like a used car salesman instead of a fanciful genie. The music retains its cuteness but grates on the nerves. Other sound effects, like an over-enthused announcer and chirping character voices, do little to make the ears feel any better.

Diddy Kong Racing DS does succeed in one department – multiplayer. Up to eight players can take part in a race, even with just a single cartridge. Gamers can also hop onto the Wi-Fi Connection and take on five other players online, although no microphone support has been included, thus eliminating trash talk.

The multiplayer racing and multi-colored levels should be a big hit with kids and fans of the original N64 game. However, the complicated controls, tiring exploration and rampant cuteness may aggravate people. Just like it did on the N64, Diddy Kong Racing DS chokes on the dust left by Mario Kart.

Final Score: 6 (out of 10)

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