Mario Kart DS vs Mario Kart 64
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Mario Kart DS continues the iconic racing series with 16 brand‑new tracks and 16 classic tracks from the previous four games, split into Nitro and Retro Grand Prix modes. Eight racers start with two karts each, and additional characters, karts, and items can be unlocked as you play. New power‑ups like the Blooper squid and Bullet Bill add fresh strategy, while the game supports both single‑player challenges and multiplayer races via local wireless. Its family‑friendly design makes it perfect for kids and party settings alike.
The game supports both single‑player and split‑screen multiplayer, offering fast‑paced arcade action that’s perfect for casual sessions or competitive play. Its distinct kart handling and power‑up system keep each race fresh and exciting.
- Large variety of tracks mixing new and classic designs.
- Innovative new items add fresh strategy.
- Robust multiplayer options with local wireless support.
- Family‑friendly rating makes it suitable for all ages.
- Iconic characters and tracks
- Easy-to-learn controls
- Split‑screen multiplayer for up to 4
- Varied engine classes add depth
- Limited to handheld hardware; no console or PC version.
- Graphics are dated compared to modern titles.
- Online play is restricted to local wireless only.
- Graphics are dated by modern standards
- No online multiplayer
- Limited to four local players
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Alternatives to Mario Kart DS
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Alternatives to Mario Kart 64
View all →The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataMario Kart DS offers more tracks, larger local multiplayer, and newer power‑ups, while Mario Kart 64 is cheaper but limited to four players and older graphics.
Key differences
- •Track count: DS has 32 total (16 new + 16 retro) vs. 16 in 64.
- •Multiplayer capacity: DS supports up to 8 wireless players; 64 supports up to 4 split‑screen.
- •Power‑up variety: DS adds Blooper and Bullet Bill; 64 uses classic shells, bananas, lightning.
- •Price: DS costs $39.99; 64 costs $19.99.
- •Release era: DS (2005) has newer hardware features; 64 (1996) is older generation.
Gameplay & fun factor
DS adds new tracks, power‑ups and Nitro challenges, expanding strategic depth beyond 64’s classic formula.
Platform availability
Both are handheld‑only titles; DS on Nintendo DS, 64 on Nintendo 64.
Price & value
64 is half the MSRP ($19.99 vs $39.99) offering lower entry cost.
Multiplayer / co‑op
DS supports up to eight players via local wireless; 64 caps at four split‑screen.
Content & replayability
DS provides 32 tracks, unlockable karts/characters, and two Grand Prix modes; 64 has 16 tracks and fewer unlocks.
Difficulty & accessibility
Both target family audiences with easy controls and multiple difficulty levels (engine classes in 64, AI tiers in DS).
Graphics & performance
DS, released in 2005, has newer graphics than the 1996 64, though both are dated by modern standards.
Choose Mario Kart DS if…
Buyers who want the richest track selection and larger local multiplayer, and don’t mind a higher price.
Choose Mario Kart 64 if…
Buyers on a tight budget who are satisfied with classic tracks and up to four players.
Common questions
Is online play available?
No; both games only support local multiplayer (wireless for DS, split‑screen for 64).
Can I play with more than four friends?
Yes, DS supports up to eight players locally; 64 is limited to four split‑screen players.
Which game offers more content?
Mario Kart DS, with 32 tracks, additional power‑ups, and unlockable karts/characters, versus 16 tracks in Mario Kart 64.