Finally, the Fun Bazaar's items can be unlocked over the course of the game. Players check specific records for each minigame, along with acquiring new minigames, both easy and hard. Small figurines can be purchased for display purposes (a move straight from the Super Smash Bros. Melee formula), along with special sound effects and tunes straight from the Mario universe. Most of the extras will probably interest Nintendo fans, but its inclusion adds replay value.
Outside of all this, the game carries the traditional Mario Party design. The graphics look better than previous entries, but unfinished animations and uninspired board designs materialize from time to time. In the sound department, players hear the usual cheery soundtrack, accompanied by cute little sound effects and voice acting. Overall, it stays true to the series' theme, but a little more effort would've been nice here.
Online play, or lack thereof, casts a dark shadow over the game. Nintendo doesn't have its online plans laid out yet (and probably won't until Mario Strikers Charged arrives this summer), but it would have enhanced this game.
Despite these complaints, Mario Party 8's motion controls, fresh new options and accessible bonus content make it a party that shouldn't be missed -- not even by those who thought that the series' best days were already long gone.
Final Score: 7 (out of 10)
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