Mario Kart 64 (1996)

by Christopher June 23, 2024

written by Christopher June 23, 2024 4 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1996
Genres: Racing
Platforms: Nintendo 64, Wii, Wii U
Developers: Nintendo EAD
Publishers: iQue, Nintendo

Mario Kart 64: The Kart Racing Classic That Defined a Genre

Released in 1996 for the Nintendo 64, Mario Kart 64 is the second installment in the Mario Kart series and is widely considered to be one of the greatest kart racing games ever made. With its innovative gameplay, charming characters, and iconic tracks, Mario Kart 64 has captivated gamers for generations.

Gameplay

Mario Kart 64 is a kart racing game in which players control one of eight characters from the Mario franchise as they race around a variety of tracks. The game features two camera angles and three engine sizes: 50cc, 100cc, and 150cc. Each kart has distinctive handling, acceleration, and top speed capabilities.

Players can use a variety of power-ups to help them win races, including shells that can be fired at rival racers, bananas that make them skid out, and lightning bolts that make them small and very slow. Mario Kart 64 also introduced the fan-favorite “Golden Mushroom,” which gives players a temporary speed boost.

Characters

Mario Kart 64 features a roster of eight playable characters, each with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The characters include:

Mario
Luigi
Princess Peach
Princess Daisy
Toad
Toadette
Wario
Donkey Kong

Tracks

Mario Kart 64 features 16 tracks, each with its own unique layout and challenges. The tracks are divided into four cups: Mushroom Cup, Flower Cup, Star Cup, and Special Cup. The Special Cup tracks are only unlocked once the player has won the first three cups.

Some of the most iconic Mario Kart 64 tracks include:

Rainbow Road
Royal Raceway
Wario Stadium
DK’s Jungle Parkway
Bowser’s Castle

Legacy

Mario Kart 64 has had a profound impact on the video game industry. It is credited with popularizing the kart racing genre and has inspired numerous imitators. The game’s innovative gameplay, charming characters, and iconic tracks have made it a timeless classic that is still enjoyed by millions around the world.

Mario Kart 64 has also been a critical and commercial success. It has sold over 10 million copies worldwide and has received numerous awards, including Game of the Year awards from several publications.

Conclusion

Mario Kart 64 is a kart racing masterpiece that has stood the test of time. With its innovative gameplay, charming characters, and iconic tracks, it is a game that will continue to be enjoyed by gamers for generations to come.

Review Score

9.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Christopher

Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.