Mario Kart 64

The game uses a behind-the-kart third-person view and lets players choose from a roster of Mushroom Kingdom racers. Main modes include Grand Prix in 50cc, 100cc, and 150cc classes, Time Trial, Versus, and Battle Mode. Players accelerate, brake, steer, and hop into drifts to carry speed through corners. Item boxes provide shells, bananas, lightning, and other offensive or defensive tools. Grand Prix progression is based on points earned across four tracks per cup, and winning the Special Cup on 150cc unlocks Mirror Mode.

Mario

A balanced all-round racer suitable for most players.

Luigi

Another balanced driver with steady handling.

Princess Peach

A lighter character with nimble handling and solid acceleration.

Toad

A lightweight racer with quick acceleration and recovery.

Yoshi

An agile lightweight driver well suited to technical corners.

Donkey Kong

A heavyweight racer with strong bumping power.

Wario

A heavy, fast driver who rewards track familiarity.

Bowser

The heaviest character, offering high speed but heavier steering.

Learn the differences between lightweight, middleweight, and heavyweight characters before committing to a main. Use the hop and drift early before corners to maintain speed on racing lines. Do not fire every item immediately; when leading, save bananas or green shells for defense, and when trailing, use red shells or lightning to recover positions. In Time Trial, focus on corner cutting and chaining speed sections, while in Battle Mode you should control open areas with frequent item box access.

Win the 150cc Special Cup

Unlock Mirror Mode.

Tips and tricks

• Lightweight characters are easier for beginners to learn with.
• Consistent drifting lines often matter more than chasing every item box.
• In multiplayer, holding a defensive item is usually safer than attacking immediately.