Mario Kart 7 vs Super Mario Kart
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Mario Kart 7 brings the beloved Mushroom Kingdom racing to vibrant 3D, letting players soar through the skies and plunge into the sea. With new courses, strategic abilities, and customizable karts, the excitement reaches new heights. Enjoy single‑player challenges, split‑screen fun, and online battles, all wrapped in Nintendo's signature arcade‑racing charm for players of all ages.
Super Mario Kart brings the iconic Mario universe to the racetrack, using SNES Mode 7 graphics to create a vibrant, scrolling world. Players collect coins to boost speed while wielding shells and bananas to hinder opponents across eight themed courses. The game offers both a single‑player Grand Prix mode and up to four‑player split‑screen racing, delivering a timeless party experience for friends and families alike.
- Innovative gliding and underwater mechanics
- Deep kart customization options
- Robust multiplayer modes both local and online
- Bright, colorful 3D track design
- Iconic characters and tracks
- Responsive split‑screen multiplayer
- Simple yet deep racing mechanics
- Nostalgic SNES graphics
- Limited to Nintendo 3DS hardware
- Online matchmaking can be slow at times
- No cross‑platform play
- Limited to four players
- No online multiplayer
- No modern graphics enhancements
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to Mario Kart 7
View all →Alternatives to Super Mario Kart
View all →The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataMario Kart 7 offers modern 3D racing with gliding, underwater sections, and robust online multiplayer, while Super Mario Kart delivers classic SNES charm but limited to local split‑screen.
Key differences
- •Mario Kart 7 includes gliders and submersible karts for aerial and underwater gameplay; Super Mario Kart does not.
- •Mario Kart 7 supports up to 8 players online and 4‑player split‑screen; Super Mario Kart only supports 4‑player split‑screen with no online.
- •Mario Kart 7 runs on Nintendo 3DS hardware with 3D graphics; Super Mario Kart runs on SNES with 2D Mode 7 graphics.
- •Mario Kart 7 has higher critic score (84) and more tracks/customization; Super Mario Kart has a higher critic score (90) but fewer tracks.
- •Both cost a one‑time purchase, but Mario Kart 7’s MSRP is $59.99; Super Mario Kart’s price isn’t specified.
Gameplay & fun factor
Mario Kart 7 adds gliding, underwater sections, and new power‑ups, expanding race dynamics beyond the classic formula.
Platform availability
Super Mario Kart runs on SNES, a legacy platform; Mario Kart 7 is limited to Nintendo 3DS hardware.
Price & value
Mario Kart 7 MSRP is $59.99; Super Mario Kart price not specified, likely lower for a retro title.
Multiplayer / co‑op
Mario Kart 7 supports up to 8 online players plus 4‑player split‑screen; Super Mario Kart only 4‑player split‑screen.
Content & replayability
Mario Kart 7 offers many tracks, customization, battle mode, and unlockables; Super Mario Kart has 8 courses and limited modes.
Difficulty & accessibility
Both have PEGI 3 / ESRB E ratings and single‑player Grand Prix modes with progressive difficulty.
Graphics & performance
Mario Kart 7 features vibrant 3D environments on 3DS; Super Mario Kart uses 2D Mode 7 graphics.
Choose Mario Kart 7 if…
Families or casual racers who want modern features, online play, and extensive content.
Choose Super Mario Kart if…
Retro enthusiasts who prefer classic SNES graphics and simple local split‑screen fun.
Common questions
Can I play with friends online?
Mario Kart 7 supports up to 8 players online; Super Mario Kart has no online multiplayer.
Which game has more tracks and customization?
Mario Kart 7 offers many tracks and kart customization (bodies, wheels, gliders); Super Mario Kart has eight courses and no kart customization.
Do I need a newer console to play?
Mario Kart 7 requires a Nintendo 3DS; Super Mario Kart runs on the original SNES.




