Adore the presentation on this game, every character is adorable and the storybook style of the story mode really has a lot of charm and character. Them making the goblin British was an inspired choice. Gameplay wise, I think it's just OK. Definitely doesn't stand out from other kart racers at the time, considering Crash Team Racing was on the same console. I do think it's neat how different all the characters feel, and I like the skill system where you can choose one specific power up that recharges over time while racing. But in terms of the driving feel, I just don't think it's all the way there. Also, having so many different ways for characters to get items that wipe out everyone else on the track is a bad choice, if you ever thought Mario Kart items were bullshit try making it through a grand prix in this game. It definitely has its own merits, the custom character aspect of the game is really neat, but making you finish story mode so many times to make one and also to unlock characters seems rough. It's the kind of nonsense I would gladly put up with as a kid, but right now I don't think I'm doing all that.

What does it say about me that I've played several Final Fantasy spin-offs but never finished an actual Final Fantasy game?