Mario Kart 64 vs Mario Kart 8
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
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.
Mario Kart 8 lets players race iconic characters from the Mario universe and other Nintendo franchises across vibrant, themed tracks. The game introduces anti‑gravity sections that let racers drive on walls and ceilings, adding a fresh twist to classic kart racing. The Switch version, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, bundles all DLC, adds a revamped battle mode with dedicated arenas, and includes accessibility features for newer players, supporting up to twelve online racers and four‑player split‑screen locally.
- Iconic characters and tracks
- Easy-to-learn controls
- Split‑screen multiplayer for up to 4
- Varied engine classes add depth
- Highly replayable with diverse tracks and characters
- Anti‑gravity mechanic adds fresh gameplay dynamics
- Robust online multiplayer supporting large races
- All DLC included in the Deluxe edition
- Graphics are dated by modern standards
- No online multiplayer
- Limited to four local players
- No cross‑platform play with other consoles
- Split‑screen limited to four players
- Steep learning curve for advanced techniques
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to Mario Kart 64
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Race against 12 players using bikes and motion controls in this classic Nintendo party racer.
Alternatives to Mario Kart 8
View all →Race against 12 players using bikes and motion controls in this classic Nintendo party racer.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataMario Kart 8 delivers modern features, online races, and all DLC for a higher price, while Mario Kart 64 offers classic fun at a low cost but lacks online play and newer content.
Key differences
- •Mario Kart 8 supports up to 12-player online multiplayer; Mario Kart 64 has no online mode.
- •Anti‑gravity tracks and revamped battle mode are exclusive to Mario Kart 8.
- •All previously released DLC is included in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe; Mario Kart 64 has no DLC.
- •Graphics and visual fidelity are modern in Mario Kart 8 versus dated 1996 graphics in Mario Kart 64.
- •Price: $59.99 for Mario Kart 8 vs $19.99 for Mario Kart 64.
Gameplay & fun factor
Mario Kart 8 adds anti‑gravity sections, more tracks, and a revamped battle mode, expanding gameplay variety.
Platform availability
Both products list only their titles; no specific platform data is provided.
Price & value
Mario Kart 64 costs $19.99, three‑quarters less than Mario Kart 8’s $59.99 price.
Multiplayer / co‑op
Mario Kart 8 offers up to 12 online racers plus 4‑player split‑screen; Mario Kart 64 limits to 4 local players.
Content & replayability
Mario Kart 8 includes all DLC and additional battle arenas, giving more long‑term content than Mario Kart 64.
Difficulty & accessibility
Mario Kart 64 is praised for easy‑to‑learn controls; Mario Kart 8 has a steep learning curve for advanced techniques.
Graphics & performance
Mario Kart 8 features modern anti‑gravity visuals; Mario Kart 64 uses dated 1996 graphics.
Choose Mario Kart 64 if…
Buyers on a tight budget or seeking nostalgic, local‑only play.
Choose Mario Kart 8 if…
Buyers who want online multiplayer, modern features, and are willing to pay premium.
Common questions
How much cheaper is Mario Kart 64?
Mario Kart 64 is $19.99, which is $40 less than Mario Kart 8’s $59.99 price.
Can I play with friends online?
Only Mario Kart 8 supports online multiplayer (up to 12 players); Mario Kart 64 has no online mode.
Does Mario Kart 8 include all extra content?
Yes, the Deluxe edition bundles all previously released downloadable content.