As I mentioned in another forum, while Mario Kart 8 has visible polygon edges, it proves on a technical level that the Wii U is capable of doing what the PS4/XBox1 can do, but just not at the same power level, such as 1080p, and with insanely high res textures, or with massively geometrically filled expanses.
Essentially, Mario Kart 8 proves that the gap between the Wii U and PS4/XBox1 is not that huge, and that this is not the Wii and PS3/XBox360 situation all over again.
You know, it's true that there are a few areas where you can make out the polygons, but in the vast majority of the game, you can't.
It's pushing some serious geometry.
I had hoped this gen would eliminate individual polygon sightings, but no console has shown that yet.
Killzone and second son both have many areas that are lower geometry. And ryse does as well.
Even the new arkham screens showcase that to some degree.
But I'm impressed by mk8 graphical fidelity. Theory counts, the texture resolution, the sharpness and "clean/bright/clear look, the lighting, etc. and this is a fast moving game with a lot going on.
I'm nearly salivating over the thought of this kind of effort put into a slower moving metroid or Zelda.
Wow.
The wii u may see something of a major comeback with games like this - so long as they advertise appropriately.