Back

Facts for Kids

Mario Kart DS is a racing game for the Nintendo DS that combines elements of fast-paced kart racing, unique characters, and exciting power-ups, including the addition of online play.

Overview

Game Modes

Race Tracks

Gameplay Mechanics

Items And Power Ups

Karts And Characters

Legacy And Reception

Multiplayer Features

Impact On The Mario Kart Series

main image

Did you know?

๐ŸŽ๏ธ Mario Kart DS was released in 2005 as part of the Mario Kart series.

๐ŸŒ It introduced online multiplayer features for the first time in the franchise.

๐Ÿ Players can choose from 12 unique characters, including classic favorites and new racers.

๐Ÿš€ The game features 32 tracks, including retro courses from previous Mario Kart titles.

๐Ÿ›ณ๏ธ Players can use items like the Bullet Bill and the Blooper for strategic advantages.

๐Ÿ“ฆ The game features a mission mode with 6 different sets of challenges.

๐ŸŒŸ Mario Kart DS was one of the first Nintendo DS games to utilize the handheld's touchscreen.

๐Ÿฅ‡ Time Trials allow players to race against their own best times and those of others via Wi-Fi.

๐ŸŒ€ The game's graphics were praised for being sharp and vibrant for the DS system.

๐Ÿ† Mario Kart DS has sold over 30 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling DS games.

Introduction

Mario Kart DS is a super fun racing video game that came out in 2005! ๐ŸŽฎ

It can be played on the Nintendo DS, a handheld gaming console. In this game, you get to race with your favorite Mario characters, like Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach, on exciting tracks. The best part? You can play against your friends or explore colorful worlds while collecting items. ๐ŸŒˆ

Mario Kart DS has over 30 race tracks and thrilling multiplayer options, making it a favorite for fans! Itโ€™s loved by kids all around the globe and lets you zoom around in colorful karts! ๐Ÿš—๐Ÿ’จ
Read Less

Game Modes

Mario Kart DS has various game modes for everyone! ๐Ÿ†

The Grand Prix lets players race through cups, aiming to score the most points. Time Trials challenge racers to complete tracks as quickly as possible, while a multiplayer mode allows friends to race together using local wireless! ๐Ÿฅณ

Thereโ€™s also Battle Mode, where you pop opponents' balloons in fun arenas! Each mode offers something different, giving players many ways to enjoy the game! Whether you are racing solo or competing with friends, there's a mode just for you!
Read Less

Race Tracks

The game includes 32 exciting race tracks that change between classic and new. ๐ŸŒ

Some tracks are inspired by locations and themes, like Mario Circuit and Delfino Square! Each track has different obstacles, jumps, and shortcuts for players to discover. To make it even cooler, some tracks feature weather effects like rain! The retro tracks bring back the best courses from previous Mario Kart games! The game also has special tracks like Figure-8 Circuit, which is fun for beginners! ๐ŸŽข

Explore each track to unlock new challenges and surprises!
Read Less

Gameplay Mechanics

In Mario Kart DS, players use the control stylus, or buttons to navigate exciting 3D tracks. ๐Ÿ

You pick your character and a unique kart before racing! Each character has special abilities. For example, Mario might have a balanced speed, but Yoshi is light and can jump higher! While racing, you must drift, speed boost, and dodge obstacles. There's a way to perform tricks off jumps, which gives you extra speed! You accumulate points for every race, so achieving first place is the goal! ๐Ÿฅ‡

However, it's not just about speed; strategy plays a vital role!
Read Less

Items And Power-ups

Items are a big part of Mario Kart DS! ๐ŸŽ

While racing, players can collect special items by driving through item boxes. Some popular items include the awesome Blue Shell, which targets the first-place racer, and the Banana Peel, which causes opponents to slip! ๐ŸŒ

Players can also use mushrooms for speed boosts or shields for protection. Each item adds excitement and strategy to every race! You might even find the famous Star Power, which makes you invincible for a short time! ๐ŸŒŸ

Use items wisely to gain an edge in the race!
Read Less

Karts And Characters

Mario Kart DS features a wide range of characters, each with their own karts and styles. ๐ŸŽ

๏ธ Players can choose from famous characters like Wario, Toad, and even Bowser! Characters have different weights; heavier characters go faster but are harder to control, while lighter ones are easier to steer. There are also many karts, including the classic Standard Kart and cool special karts like the Wild Wing! Each kart has unique stats, such as speed and drift, making them special for different racing styles! ๐Ÿš€

Choose wisely to match your racing strategy!
Read Less

Legacy And Reception

Mario Kart DS is loved and remembered for its fun and endless challenges! ๐ŸŒŸ

Critics praised the game for its graphics and innovative multiplayer features. It has sold millions of copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling DS games! The gameโ€™s exciting mechanics and beloved characters contributed to its legacy, resulting in many players still enjoying it today! Many think itโ€™s one of the best games in the Mario Kart franchise. ๐ŸŽ–

๏ธ So if you havenโ€™t tried it, go fast and join the fun! ๐Ÿ

Read Less

Multiplayer Features

Mario Kart DS is great for multiplayer fun! ๐ŸŽ‰

You can race with up to 8 players using local wireless! All you need is one game cartridge to share the fun with friends! You can also compete globally by connecting to Wi-Fi, allowing you to race against players worldwide! ๐ŸŒ

The game includes a special online ranking system, so you can see how you stack up against others. With many game options, like Battle Mode and Grand Prix, there's an endless amount of fun to be had with your friends! ๐ŸŒˆ

Read Less

Impact On The Mario Kart Series

Mario Kart DS made a big impact on the Mario Kart series! ๐ŸŽ

๏ธ It was the first game to introduce online multiplayer racing, making it easier for players to connect and race against friends worldwide! The game also brought in new features, like the Mission Mode, where players complete specific challenges. ๐ŸŽฏ

Mario Kart DS helped set the standard for future games with its colorful graphics, engaging tracks, and exciting gameplay! These innovations influenced all upcoming Mario Kart titles, ensuring that each new game would be even more thrilling! ๐Ÿš€

Read Less

Mario Kart Ds Quiz

Q1
Question 1 of 10
Next

Frequently Asked Questions

Is DIY back?!

How do I reactivate my account?

How do I sign up?

Are the android and iOS apps coming back?

What is DIY?

What is a โ€œChallengeโ€ on DIY?

What is a โ€œCourseโ€ on DIY?

What are โ€œSkillsโ€ on DIY?

What if I'm new to all thisโ€”where do I begin?

Do I need special materials or equipment?

Is DIY safe for kids?

Can I collaborate with other DIYers on a project?

How do Mentors, Mods, and Jr. Mods help us?

What is DIY?

What's the recommended age for DIY?