Yeah, same here. I always wanted a 2-player version of the original F-Zero and obviously a successor. F-Zero 99 indeed surpasses any wish, but I don't really look at it as a battle royal game, but an over-the-top "true racing" game.

I've always looked at F-Zero as a "true racing" game and its name implies that it is one level above Formula 1. F-Zero is really technical and you have to find the perfect turn-in point and when to apply throttle again. Especially at master difficulty you have to find the optimal racing line while also dealing with traffic. And although you very rarely have to use the brake, lifting off is kind of like a break. This is what separates F-Zero from the original Super Mario Kart. In Mario Kart you kept the gas button pressed at all times and could make all corners.

The original Mario Kart still required technical skill though and you had to think about racing lines (especially where to start a power drift). Current Mario Kart 8 is frustrating me because there's always something happening, like someone using their lightning. Those constant interruptions prevent you from getting into a rhythm. And I don't want to talk about those city circuits in the expansion pass. MK8 is not a racing game, but it's really fun with others in the same room.

F-Zero 99 is a pure racing game with some gimmicks.