Mario Kart DS vs Mario Kart: Double Dash!!
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.
Mario Kart: Double Dash!! lets two characters team up in a single kart, swapping roles to drive and fire items. Choose from a huge cast of favorites and pair them any way you like for intense multiplayer mayhem. The game features six normal items and eight character‑specific specials, plus split‑screen racing for up to four players, making it perfect for family game nights.
- 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.
- Innovative two‑character kart system
- Rich selection of characters and items
- Strong local multiplayer experience
- Bright, family‑friendly visuals
- Limited to handheld hardware; no console or PC version.
- Graphics are dated compared to modern titles.
- Online play is restricted to local wireless only.
- No online multiplayer support
- Limited to GameCube hardware (no modern ports)
- Steep learning curve for optimal item use
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Race against 12 players using bikes and motion controls in this classic Nintendo party racer.
Alternatives to Mario Kart: Double Dash!!
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The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataMario Kart DS offers newer tracks, local wireless for up to eight players, and a lower price, while Double Dash!! adds a unique two‑racer kart system and co‑op mode but costs more and supports only up to four split‑screen players.
Key differences
- •DS supports up to 8 players via local wireless; Double Dash!! supports up to 4 split‑screen players only.
- •Double Dash!! features a two‑racer per kart mechanic and co‑operative mode, absent in DS.
- •DS includes 16 new tracks plus 16 classic tracks; Double Dash!! has 16 tracks total.
- •Price: DS $39.99 vs Double Dash!! $49.99.
- •Critic scores: DS 90/100, Double Dash!! 85/100.
Gameplay & fun factor
Double Dash!! introduces two‑racer karts and character‑specific items, adding strategic depth not present in DS.
Platform availability
Mario Kart DS runs on the Nintendo DS handheld, a more portable platform than GameCube‑only Double Dash!!.
Price & value
DS costs $39.99, $10 cheaper than Double Dash!! while offering more tracks and 8‑player support.
Multiplayer / co‑op
DS supports local wireless multiplayer for up to eight players; Double Dash!! limited to four split‑screen and no online.
Content & replayability
DS provides 32 tracks (16 new, 16 classic) versus Double Dash!!'s 16 tracks, plus unlockable karts and characters.
Difficulty & accessibility
Both have family‑friendly ratings (PEGI 3, ESRB E) and simple controls suitable for kids.
Graphics & performance
DS graphics are dated but still comparable; Double Dash!! runs on GameCube with similar era visuals, no clear advantage.
Choose Mario Kart DS if…
Buyers who want portable play, more tracks, larger local multiplayer, and lower cost.
Choose Mario Kart: Double Dash!! if…
Buyers who value the unique two‑racer kart mechanic, co‑op mode, and richer character/item variety despite higher price.
Common questions
Which game is cheaper?
Mario Kart DS costs $39.99, while Mario Kart: Double Dash!! costs $49.99.
Can I play with more than four friends?
Yes, Mario Kart DS supports up to eight players via local wireless; Double Dash!! supports only up to four split‑screen players.
Do either of these games have online multiplayer?
No, both titles only offer local multiplayer; DS uses wireless, Double Dash!! uses split‑screen on the same console.