It should be noted that although the characters will only be appearing in the GameCube version of the title, there's plenty of info in this preview for Xbox and PS2 owners as well. For now, though, let's take a look at what fans of the 'Cube can expect to see. For the most part, Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach will control the same way as the rest of the characters, although they'll be able to pull off a few tricks that the rest cannot. Not surprisingly, the trio will look a bit different, too, with shorter bodies and bigger heads than the humans in the game (they are, after all, comically cartoonish characters).
We got a chance to check out some of the game's new tricks, including the Cowbell and the Pork Chop Sandwiches. You'll be able to pull off tricks in the same fashion as the other games in the series, although the developers have added a combo gauge this time out. When you pull off a trick, the gauge will fill up, and successfully completing more will give you point multipliers, as well as more boost. We couldn't tell if riding on rails would add to the combos, but it looks like that will probably be the case. Once your boost is completely full, you'll be able to perform over-the-top Monster Tricks, which usually involves taking your skis or board off in midair and attempting some wild acrobatics.
For the first time, we also got a glimpse at the new character creation system the game offers, a new feature for the series. In the previous titles, you simply chose from the original characters, then built up their stats by winning events. Now, however, you can create and customize your own player, beginning with a persona, the logo that you'll carry with you throughout the game. After that, you'll choose either a male or a female archetype, then pick their build, height, facial structure, and hair. None of this actually affects your character in any way