'Mario Kart' to include Wii Wheel device

One of the Nintendo Wii's most eagerly-awaited releases of 2008 has been confirmed for release on April 11, complete with a new Wii Wheel peripheral.

Nintendo said the game, which will feature 16 new tracks and 16 classic tracks, will support five control options, including: Wii Remote and Nunchuk, Classic controller, GameCube controller and the bundled Wii Wheel.

The game will also offer players new characters, including the option to race as your Mii, weapons and vehicles. A range of multi-player modes will return, for up to four players, as well as a new Wi-Fi mode allowing up to 11 players to race simultaneously.

“Mario Kart Wii encompasses the core spirit of Mario Kart - an incredibly rich and deep gameplay experience that provides never-ending fun,” said Nintendo of Europe marketing and PR MD Laurent Fischer.

"And with the Wii Wheel, every member of the whole family will feel comfortable to join in and experience kart racing regardless of whether they are a karting champion or a complete new beginner".

Discussing the game's multi-player options, Fischer added: “With the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection service also allowing friends and family to compete around the globe, we are confident that Mario Kart fans won’t be left disappointed with this instalment exclusively on Wii”.

Nintendo confirmed a new Mario Kart Channel will launch alongside the release of the game.

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