by Arthur » 07 Jun 2016, 13:24
Short version of my argument: Perhaps you and other hard-core players prefer those kinds of tracks. However, most people probably don't want that, as you need room for those who are not as good at playing the game. Narrow tracks can be fun indeed, but those should rather be addon downloads for skilled players to get themselves for that extra challenge.
Longer argument: About the track itself, it's very hard to overtake other karts in the steeper section, as the curves make you jump if you try to take the inner section of them (and you risk even jumping over the fence). There is not even enough room to skid comfortably in, though you might be able to skid in the last couple curves going downhill. The wider part at the end is much better in that regard.
The steepness itself can be a problem for physics, at least it used to. The steering might become stronger to the point of oversteering, and the chassis might bump into the track itself due to the suspension getting too compressed. Again, that used to be more of an issue previously, but driving in reverse might cause unexpected (to the artist) issues with steep hills.
Lastly, length does have more leeway in general. But for new tracks that go in the main game we prefer about 45 sec to a minute and a half per lap. That way it's quicker for people to learn a track, and it's not an endurance race (you can increase amount of laps for that). At the same time the track is quicker to make, needs less objects to fill it with, and the artist can spend time making it high quality. Long tracks need more playtesting to make sure every section is good, and you risk having more empty or sparse sections.
Again, all this does not mean there's not room for the current Shiny Suburbs track or similar; however they fit better as addons that experienced players can seek out for themselves rather than a "mandatory" track you need to get through to complete challenges. Remember kids also play the game, and while we don't want toddler-level tracks the goal is to make them accessible. An example of a good track when it comes to width, length and general layout is the farm track. It might be a bit easy for expert players since they are good at getting the big nitros, but I think both novice and experienced players can have fun and get a challenge playing it, especially when they select the appropriate difficulty.
Hey pal, I took an oath for justice! "In happy days or tightest tights..." or something like that.