> [!game] *Mario Kart 64* > ![[Mario Kart 64 Box Art_Front.jpg]] > > [!art]- Back of Box > > ![[Mario Kart 64 Box Art_Back.jpg]] > > Developer: Nintendo EAD > Publisher: Nintendo > Platform: Nintendo 64 > Release: February 10, 1997 User Manual: [Officially Hosted](https://www.nintendo.com/eu/media/downloads/games_8/emanuals/nintendo_8/Manual_Nintendo64_MarioKart64_EN.pdf?srsltid=AfmBOopvi0XJyD5_vz_unSBZPuxUi16fR1xmuh09nl6b9odXu-DrxaNz) — [Archive.Org](https://dn720701.ca.archive.org/0/items/Nintendo64GameManuals/MarioKart64a_text.pdf) [Save data](https://drive.google.com/file/d/12g7oCIFrJ02Aj9573AJVJ0vgLV8qBTMi/view?usp=share_link) # Summary *Mario Kart 64*, like so many N64 titles, was the transitional title from 2D to 3D that cemented said franchise as an industry staple. *Mario Kart 64* is a 3D arcade/party racing game where 1-4 players can race in Grand Prix (of eight racers total) of various *Super Mario*-themed courses with items, shortcuts, and more. If you have a Star, you can ride through the train tunnel on Kalimari Desert and finish a lap super duper fast. # Acquisition One of those "we have always had *Mario Kart 64*" acquisitions. I do not remember a gaming world *without* it. # Memories I vividly remember the first time playing the game, at least in a party setting. I don't recall the people or where. I remember textures, colors, and sounds. The cushy midwestern carpet seated on the floor in front of a wooden, encapsulating entertainment stand. Controllers passed in fervor. The raucous reaction to a red shell strike right at the finish line of Luigi's Circuit leading to an upset. I had never experienced such a communal gaming experience before. --- I remember pouring over the [GameFAQs page](https://gamefaqs.gamespot.com/n64/197860-mario-kart-64/cheats) for shortcuts and unlockables. --- I did stream the game and a fan-mod dubbed *Amped Up!* for St. Jude in 2022. Link below. # Related Posts - [[Streaming Every Single Mario Kart for St. Jude and Relay FM]] - [St. Jude and Relay FM 2023 Fundraiser Mario Kart Streams](https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxCxW3Sbhy5Y-xHm1ZiPAZsO3gZYqYPf7) ## Versions - Virtual Console, Wii