The console seller’s console seller. Mario Kart 64 wasn’t the most technically impressive racing game, but four controllers and four friends made it essential. The rubber-banding items kept races competitive. The battle mode provided endless entertainment. For many, this was the reason to own an N64.
Fast facts
- Developer: Nintendo EAD.
- Year: 1996 (Japan), 1997 (West).
- Platform: Nintendo 64.
- Players: 1-4 simultaneous.
Track design
| Cup |
Tracks |
Theme |
| Mushroom |
4 |
Introductory |
| Flower |
4 |
Intermediate |
| Star |
4 |
Advanced |
| Special |
4 |
Expert |
Item system
| Item |
Effect |
| Red Shell |
Homing attack |
| Blue Shell |
First place punishment |
| Lightning |
Shrink all opponents |
| Star |
Invincibility |
Battle mode
| Arena |
Design |
| Block Fort |
Multi-level |
| Double Deck |
Two tiers |
| Skyscraper |
Rooftop |
| Big Donut |
Lava centre |
Multiplayer legacy
| Aspect |
Impact |
| 4-player |
Standard for party games |
| Split-screen |
Social gaming model |
| Item balance |
Catch-up mechanics |
| Replayability |
Endless sessions |
See also