Overview
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