[RedBull]
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But arguably the biggest story of the year was in handheld. 3DS launched, faded fast, then bounced back to life at the end of the year. Meanwhile, PlayStation Vita launched in Japan, with the West catching up in February.
And then there was smartphone gaming, growing so fast it almost turned the industry on its head, backed by some genuinely brilliant titles.
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8. Mario Kart 7 (3DS) …
Speaking of familiar, if there’s one gaming blueprint that’s stood the test of time it’s Mario Kart’s. In some ways it’s the same as it’s always been (i.e. brilliant), but with enough new tricks up its sleeve – like hangliders, underwater racing, superb circuits and, of course, stereo 3D – to keep the fun flowing.
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6. Super Mario 3D Land (3DS)
3DS had such a troubled start to life, many were beginning to seriously fear for its future. And then along came Mario in another endlessly playful, obscenely creative fiesta of fun. Alongside Mario Kart, it made Nintendo’s console a contender again.
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See the full story here: http://www.redbull.co.uk/cs/Satellite/en_UK/Article/The-best-games-of-2011-021243139573659