Mario
A balanced driver with average speed, acceleration, and handling.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
Control Stick | Steer |
|---|---|
A | Accelerate |
B | Brake or reverse |
Z | Use the held item |
R | Hop and initiate a powerslide |
C-Up | Look behind the kart |
Combos and sequences
RControl Stick | Powerslide around a corner Keep steering while holding R. |
|---|
Control notes
Button labels refer to the Nintendo 64 controller.
How it plays
How does Mario Kart 64 play?
Players steer from a behind-the-kart perspective and race through themed circuits. Grand Prix is organized into four cups, each containing four tracks, with engine classes that affect speed and handling. Finishing position determines points across a cup.
Item boxes provide offensive, defensive, and movement-changing items. Versus mode allows selected races outside a cup, Time Trials focuses on lap and course records, and Battle mode places players in arenas where balloons represent remaining hits. Winning cups unlocks higher engine classes and additional content.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Mario Kart 64?
Learn each circuit's braking points before relying on items. Light drivers recover quickly after collisions, while heavy drivers can push lighter opponents aside but lose more time when stopped.
Save defensive items when approaching narrow sections or the final lap. In Grand Prix, consistent finishes are often more valuable than risky attempts to win every race.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Luigi
A balanced driver with characteristics similar to Mario.
Peach
A light driver with strong acceleration but lower top speed.
Toad
A light and responsive driver suited to quick recovery.
Yoshi
A light driver with quick acceleration and agile handling.
Wario
A heavy driver with high speed but slower acceleration.
Donkey Kong
A heavy driver with strong speed and handling weight.
Bowser
The heaviest driver, with high speed and difficult acceleration.
Documented inputs
What cheats and unlocks are documented?
Win the 150cc Special CupUnlock Mirror Mode.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Drift through broad corners and release the slide when the kart points toward the exit.
- 2
In multiplayer, watch the minimap to anticipate incoming items and traffic.
- 3
Time Trials are useful for learning shortcuts and efficient racing lines.
Community discussion
What are players saying? 0