Players move across themed boards by rolling dice, collecting coins, and competing for stars while interacting with shops, event spaces, and board hazards. At the end of each round, a mini-game determines coin rewards or penalties, with both four-player and 2-on-2/1-on-1 formats appearing depending on the mode. Story Mode pits players against computer-controlled opponents across a sequence of boards, while standard party play focuses on star racing and item management. Some boards feature changing conditions that make route planning important.

Mario

The series mascot and a playable character in party modes.

Luigi

Mario’s brother and a selectable character.

Princess Peach

A playable royal character from the Mushroom Kingdom.

Yoshi

A playable fan-favorite character.

Wario

A playable character with a rough-and-tumble personality.

Waluigi

A major playable newcomer introduced in this game.

Build a steady coin economy early so you can afford stars and useful items when the opportunity appears. Learn each board’s shortcuts, traps, and event spaces so you can choose the best route rather than always taking the shortest one. In close matches, items that block opponents or alter movement can matter more than raw luck. In Story Mode, watch CPU movement patterns and position yourself to deny easy star pickups.

Tips and tricks

Winning mini-games is the fastest way to keep your coin count healthy.

Tips and tricks

Save some coins for emergency item purchases instead of spending everything at once.

Tips and tricks

Check the star location before committing to a long detour or a shortcut.

User Reviews

A strong mix of board strategy and mini-game chaos that still holds up well.

User Reviews

The Duel Mode adds a lot of tension and variety to matches.

User Reviews

Often considered one of the best N64 party games thanks to its balance and content.