Alright, so you want to know which Mario Kart game is the absolute best? It’s a question that gets debated a lot, especially with a new one, Mario Kart World, coming out soon. This series has been around forever, and each game has its own fans. We’re going to break down all the main titles, from the old-school ones to the newest, to figure out the definitive ranking for 2025. Get ready, because we’re about to settle this best mario kart debate once and for all.
Key Takeaways
- Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is still a top contender, even with new games on the horizon. It just has so much stuff.
- Mario Kart World is set to shake things up with new ways to play and move around the tracks.
- Older games like Double Dash and Mario Kart DS still hold a special place for many players because of their unique features.
- The Mario Kart series has always been good at bringing people together for some fun, chaotic racing.
- Even the less popular Mario Kart games have something interesting about them, showing how much the series has changed over time.
1. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Okay, let’s be real, is anyone really surprised this is at the top? I mean, come on. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the definitive Mario Kart experience, hands down. It took what was already great about Mario Kart 8 on the Wii U and cranked it up to eleven. I remember when the original came out, I thought it was amazing, but it was missing something. Then Deluxe came along and BAM! Battle Mode! It was exactly what it needed.
And it’s not just the Battle Mode. The sheer amount of content is insane. We’re talking about a massive roster of characters, tons of karts and customization options, and enough tracks to keep you busy for, well, forever. Plus, the Booster Course Pass just keeps adding more! It’s like they’re never going to stop, and honestly, I’m not complaining. The gameplay refinement is just top-notch. It feels so smooth and responsive, whether you’re drifting around corners or chucking shells at your friends (or enemies, depending on how competitive you get).
I’ve spent countless hours playing this game with friends and family, and it never gets old. There’s just something about the chaotic, unpredictable nature of Mario Kart that keeps you coming back for more. One minute you’re in first place, the next you’re getting bombarded by blue shells and falling off the track. It’s frustrating, sure, but it’s also hilarious. And that’s what makes it so great. It’s a game that everyone can enjoy, regardless of their skill level. It’s just pure, unadulterated fun.
And let’s not forget how gorgeous this game looks. The graphics are stunning, especially on the Switch’s handheld mode. The tracks are so vibrant and detailed, and the character models are so expressive. It’s just a visual feast for the eyes. I mean, seriously, have you seen Mario Kart World? It’s beautiful.
So yeah, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the best Mario Kart game, and I don’t think that’s going to change anytime soon. It’s the perfect blend of classic Mario Kart gameplay and modern features, and it’s a game that I’ll be playing for years to come.
2. Mario Kart World
Mario Kart World on the Switch 2 is a fresh take on the franchise. It doesn’t immediately scream reinvention, but the more you play, the more you appreciate its depth. The open-world aspect and racing with friends reveal a kart racer packed with secrets and fun. It refines the formula in meaningful ways, adding to the charm.
Few games have brought as much laughter since its launch. If you need a pick-me-up, Mario Kart World is sure to bring a smile. It introduces innovative mechanics like wall-driving and rail-grinding, along with new modes like Free Roam and Knockout Tour, making it a standout entry. It’s a game that keeps on giving, with new discoveries around every corner. It’s easy to pick up, but difficult to master, staying true to the series’ core philosophy. The game has surpassed even Mario platformers in popularity, which is saying something. It’s a must-have for any Switch 2 owner.
3. Mario Kart: Double Dash!!
Okay, Double Dash!! on the GameCube. This one’s got a special place in a lot of hearts, and for good reason. It did things differently, and that’s what made it stand out. I remember when it first came out, the two-character kart system was mind-blowing. You had one character driving and another slinging items, and you could switch ’em up. It added a layer of strategy that hadn’t been there before. Plus, each character had their own special item, which was super cool. It’s probably why some consider it the best in the series.
I think the graphics were a big deal too. Everything looked so vibrant and polished. The tracks were creative, and the character models were a huge step up from what we’d seen before. It just felt like a really well-made game, you know? It’s not perfect, but it’s got a certain charm that’s hard to deny. I still pop it in every now and then for a bit of nostalgia. It’s a fun game to play with friends, and it’s definitely one of the more unique entries in the Mario Kart franchise.
4. Mario Kart DS
Mario Kart DS was a big deal when it dropped. I remember being completely blown away that I could play a fully 3D Mario Kart game on a handheld. It really felt like a console experience you could take anywhere. Plus, it was the first in the series to offer online play, which was mind-blowing back in 2005. It wasn’t perfect, but it was revolutionary for its time.
It also introduced Mission Mode, which was a really cool addition. Instead of just racing, you had specific challenges to complete, like drifting through gates or taking out enemies with items. It added a lot of replay value and something different to do when you got tired of the regular races. The introduction of retro tracks was also a great move, letting you race on courses from older games.
Here’s a quick rundown of what made it stand out:
- First online multiplayer in the series
- Introduction of Mission Mode
- Retro tracks from previous games
- Download Play for local multiplayer
Even though newer games have come out since, Mario Kart DS still holds a special place in my heart. It was a game-changer for handheld gaming and the Mario Kart series as a whole.
5. Mario Kart Wii
Mario Kart Wii was a big deal when it dropped. Following up on Mario Kart DS’s online play, it was almost a given that Mario Kart Wii would also let you race against people all over the world. Thankfully, even with the Wii’s not-so-great online setup, the experience was pretty awesome. The online multiplayer, supporting up to twelve racers, was a game-changer.
From the outside, you might think this Wii entry lost some of the series’ charm, but the online play, the motion controls (remember that plastic wheel?), and the extra characters and vehicles made it super easy for anyone to jump in and have fun. It’s one of the most accessible games in the whole series. Plus, who could forget optional motion controls?
6. Mario Kart 7
Mario Kart 7 on the 3DS brought the series to handhelds in a big way. It introduced gliding and underwater sections, which really changed up the track design. I remember being pretty excited about those additions when it first came out. It felt like a real step forward, even if it didn’t quite have the same soul as some of the older games. The mechanics were super smooth, though, which made it a fun game to pick up and play.
I think the new features opened the door for some cool track designs, but it felt like they were just scratching the surface of what they could do. The battle mode was okay, but it didn’t really grab me. It just felt a little sterile, you know? Still, it’s a solid entry in the series, and definitely worth checking out if you’re a fan. I’m curious to see what Mario Kart World brings to the table with its new content.
7. Mario Kart 64
Mario Kart 64! Ah, the memories. This was a big deal back in the day because it was the first Mario Kart in true 3D. Okay, maybe the racers were more like fancy sprites, but the tracks? They had hills! That was mind-blowing at the time. It really showed off what the N64 could do. Plus, it had four-player multiplayer, which meant chaotic fun with friends. Toad’s Turnpike was a classic, and still holds up as a fun track.
It’s interesting to see how each Mario Kart game adds something new. Going from the flat tracks of Super Mario Kart to this felt like a huge leap. Sure, the graphics are a bit blocky now, but the gameplay is still addictive. It’s a great N64 title for a quick multiplayer session.
8. Super Mario Kart
Ah, Super Mario Kart. The one that started it all. Back in the day, people weren’t so sure about Mario in a kart. It seemed weird, right? Like, Mario’s a platforming guy, not a racer. But boy, were they wrong. This game laid the foundation for everything that followed.
It’s wild to think about how much the series has grown since then. We’ve got Super Circuit and all sorts of crazy tracks and characters now. But Super Mario Kart? It’s got that retro charm that’s hard to beat. The Mode 7 graphics were mind-blowing at the time, and the gameplay is still surprisingly fun, even if it’s a bit simpler than the newer games.
Here’s what made it so special:
- The introduction of items like the shells and bananas. These items are now a staple of the series.
- The unique track designs, even with the limitations of the SNES hardware. Some of those tracks are iconic.
- The rivalry between Mario and his pals (and enemies!) in a racing setting. It was just a fun concept.
It might not be the flashiest or most feature-packed Mario Kart game, but Super Mario Kart deserves its spot on this list for being the OG. It’s a classic for a reason.
9. Mario Kart Tour
Okay, let’s talk about Mario Kart Tour. It’s the black sheep of the family, the one that shows up to Thanksgiving dinner in flip-flops. It’s on mobile, which automatically makes some people turn their noses up, but hear me out. It’s not all bad.
I mean, yeah, the monetization can be aggressive. You’re constantly bombarded with offers and deals, trying to get you to spend real money on rubies and drivers. It can feel a little gross, honestly. But underneath all that, there’s a decent Mario Kart game trying to break free.
- The track selection is pretty solid, with a mix of classic courses and new, city-themed tracks that are actually kind of cool. Racing through New York or Tokyo in a kart? Sign me up!
- The controls are… well, they’re mobile controls. You get used to them, but they’re never going to be as precise as a physical controller. Drifting is a bit of a nightmare at first, but you eventually figure it out. I found some laptop games that are easier to control.
- The gacha element is annoying, but it does add a layer of progression. Unlocking new drivers, karts, and gliders keeps you coming back, even if it’s just to see what you’ll get next. It’s like a digital slot machine, but with Mario characters.
Look, I’m not going to pretend that Mario Kart Tour is perfect. It’s got its flaws, big ones. But for a free-to-play mobile game, it’s surprisingly fun. Just be prepared to resist the urge to spend all your money on virtual goodies.
10. Mario Kart: Super Circuit
Okay, so Mario Kart: Super Circuit on the Game Boy Advance isn’t exactly winning any beauty contests these days. It was the first attempt to bring Mario Kart to a handheld, and while it’s got its fans, it’s often considered one of the weaker entries. The graphics are pretty basic, even for the GBA, and the tracks can feel a little bland.
But, it’s not all bad! It does try to capture the feel of the original Super Mario Kart, with similar gameplay and track design. Plus, it’s got a ton of content, including all the original SNES tracks to unlock. If you’re a completionist, that’s a big draw. Some people even think of it as the true sequel to the original Super Mario Kart that never came to be on the SNES.
Here’s a quick rundown:
- Lots of tracks (32 in total!)
- Classic 2D gameplay
- Not the prettiest game, even for its time
- Good if you want a retro Mario Kart experience on the go
Ultimately, Super Circuit is a decent handheld racer, but it’s hard to recommend it over some of the other Mario Kart games, especially the ones on more powerful handhelds like the DS or 3DS. Still, it’s a piece of Mario Kart history, and some people still enjoy it for its simplicity and retro charm.
11. Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit
Okay, so Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit is definitely the most unique entry on this list. Instead of just playing on a screen, you’re setting up a real-world course in your living room! It’s a cool concept, but it also has some drawbacks that keep it from ranking higher.
It’s a mixed reality experience where you control a physical kart with your Switch. You set up gates to create your track, and then the game overlays the track with in-game elements. It’s pretty neat to see your living room transformed into a custom course with different environments and obstacles.
Here’s what I think:
- The setup can be a bit finicky. Getting the kart to recognize the gates and maintain a stable connection can be frustrating.
- The gameplay is fun, but it’s not as deep as other Mario Kart games. The focus is more on the novelty of driving a real kart around your house than on complex racing mechanics.
- It’s expensive. You need to buy the kart, and if you want to play with friends, everyone needs their own kart and Switch. That can add up quickly.
Ultimately, Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit is a fun experiment, but it’s not a replacement for the core Mario Kart experience. It’s more of a cool tech demo than a fully-fledged game. It’s a fun party game, but the high price and limited gameplay keep it near the bottom of this list.
Conclusion
So, there you have it. Our look at the Mario Kart games, from the ones that didn’t quite hit the mark to the absolute best. It’s pretty clear that Nintendo knows how to make a fun racing game, and even the older ones still have a lot going for them. Whether you like the classic feel of Super Mario Kart or the huge amount of stuff in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, there’s a Mario Kart for everyone. The series keeps changing, adding new things, but it always keeps that core fun that makes it so good. So grab your controller, pick your favorite character, and hit the track. There’s always another race to win.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the first Mario Kart game come out?
The very first Mario Kart game, called Super Mario Kart, came out way back in 1992 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). It started a whole new kind of racing game.
Which Mario Kart game is the most popular?
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe for the Nintendo Switch is currently the most popular one. It has tons of tracks and characters, making it a favorite for many players.
What new features does Mario Kart World (2025) introduce?
Mario Kart World, coming in 2025, is set to bring some cool new stuff like driving on walls and grinding on rails. It also has fresh game modes like Free Roam and Knockout Tour.
What makes Mario Kart: Double Dash!! unique?
Mario Kart: Double Dash!! is special because two players can ride in one kart, with one driving and the other using items. This makes for some really fun teamwork and strategy.
Did Mario Kart DS introduce any new game modes?
Yes, Mario Kart DS was the first game to let you play missions and race on old tracks from past games. These features became a big part of the series later on.
How many copies has the Mario Kart series sold?
The Mario Kart series has sold over 160 million copies around the world across all its games. It’s one of Nintendo’s biggest hits!
