Nintendo Announces Mario Kart DS Bundle

Nintendo has announced a new North American hardware bundle for its DS handheld, to debut on November 28, and featuring both the new Wi-Fi-enabled Mario Kart DS racing game alongside a DS console featuring the fifth new North American Nintendo DS color, Hot Rod Red. The package will be available for $149.99, apparently a savings of about $15 on the normal retail price, since the DS currently retails for $129.99, and Mario Kart DS itself will cost $34.99 when released. The Hot Rod Red DS hardware will come with a checkered-flag wrist strap as well as what's described as "a series of racing-inspired decals to let owners customize their rides with sporty numbers or red-hot flames." In addition, a little more information has been released about the online modes for Mario Kart DS. In particular, it's been revealed that the title will have unique Friend Registration Keys, much like Animal Crossing for the DS, and players will be able to add acquaintances to their friends list via this method. In addition, the one cartridge, multi-player LAN version of Mario Kart DS will allow play in the 100cc class on any of eight tracks and three battle tracks, although people playing without a cartridge have some restricted options.