It's way too easy to block or avoid Red Shells. The only become a threat in close range, in the middle of the pack (where you're less likely to have something to defend with), and with triple shells. They got neutered bad.
I agree about Blue Shells though. They suck when they hit you, but without them the player in 1st place is untouchable. A regular Red Shell isn't going to hit them, triple Red Shells are non-existent for the second place player, and any other item that targets the 1st player (Lightning, POW block) will affect the people behind them also. Players in first can only be taken down by hazard items and their own stupidity, which are easy to overcome. It's really something I hope is balanced in the new game.
--
Okay, I rolled a 14. What's that mean? Hsu
That you're a cheater. This is a 12-sided die. Chan