There are five official ways to control "Mario Kart Wii." But what if you wanted to explore some other options?
Gaming blog Joystiq has done a wonderful job putting each of the five official control schemes through a very scientific round of tests.
But they missed two additional controllers.
With the help of the RetroPort connectors from RetroZone "Mario Kart" fans (sort of) have the option of using their old NES and SNES controllers. Unfortunately, much like "Super Smash Bros. Brawl," the game is virtually unplayable with both of them.
While both feel significantly better in your hands than the Wii Wheel, they only offer the ability to give your cart gas and reverse. Since the controllers plug in via the Gamecube ports, they are treated as Gamecube controllers. Because of that, the steering is mapped to the non-existent analog sticks, while the tricks are mapped to the directional pad.
You can drive straight back and forth, but that's it. Sadly, there's no drag racing in "Mario Kart."
With the help of the SNES controller I was at least able to look behind me.

