Mario Kart DS

A portable racing classic

Released in 2005, Mario Kart DS brought the beloved kart racing series to the Nintendo DS, delivering an unforgettable portable experience. Featuring familiar characters like Mario, Luigi, and Bowser, the game stayed true to the series’ core gameplay, offering fast-paced, fun races on inventive tracks. Thanks to its tight controls and new features, it became one of the most popular and essential games for the DS.

New features and power-ups

Mario Kart DS introduced several fresh features to the series, including the use of the DS’s touchscreen for menu navigation and the option to collect and use unique power-ups. The game also brought in new karts, including the ability to unlock special characters like the classic Super Mario 64 version of Mario. The addition of “Mission Mode” offered a new layer of gameplay, with players completing objectives beyond just racing, such as collecting coins or knocking out certain enemies.

Iconic multiplayer and replayability

One of the standout features of Mario Kart DS was its multiplayer mode. The game allowed up to eight players to race against each other using local wireless play, making it a go-to option for multiplayer gaming on the DS. With its mix of exciting tracks, fun power-ups, and a range of game modes, Mario Kart DS became a beloved title that helped cement the Mario Kart series as one of Nintendo’s most iconic franchises.

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