View source for Super Mario Kart

{{Short description|1992 video game}}
{{For|the franchise|Mario Kart{{!}}''Mario Kart''}}
{{Infobox video game
|title=Super Mario Kart
|image=supermariokart box.JPG
|caption=North American box art
|developer=[[Nintendo Entertainment Analysis & Development|Nintendo EAD]]
|publisher=[[Nintendo]]
|director={{ubl|[[Tadashi Sugiyama]]|[[Hideki Konno]]}}
|producer=[[Shigeru Miyamoto]]
|artist={{ubl|[[Yōichi Kotabe]]|Mie Yoshimura|[[Yoshiaki Koizumi]]}}
|composer=Soyo Oka
|programmer=Masato Kimura
|series=''[[Mario Kart]]''
|platforms=[[Super Nintendo Entertainment System]]
|released={{vgrelease|JP|August 27, 1992<ref name="SMK Review">{{cite web|title=Review: Super Mario Kart (Wii U eShop / Super NES)|website=Nintendo Life|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/wiiu-eshop/super_mario_kart_snes|first=Jamie|last=O'Neill|date=2014-03-28|access-date=2014-07-03|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141012093510/http://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/wiiu-eshop/super_mario_kart_snes|archive-date=2014-10-12|url-status=live}}</ref>|NA|September 1, 1992<ref name="SMK Review" />|UK|October 1992<ref>{{cite magazine |title=Charts: All Formats Top Ten (Data supplied by Virgin Game Centre) |magazine=[[Digitiser]] |date=10 January 1993 |url=https://www.digitiser2000.com/main-page/not-seen-for-25-years-classic-digitiser-unearthed |access-date=10 March 2021 |archive-date=11 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221011164909/https://www.digitiser2000.com/main-page/not-seen-for-25-years-classic-digitiser-unearthed |url-status=live}}</ref>|EU|January 21, 1993<ref name="SMK Review" />}}
|genre=[[Kart racing game|Kart racing]]
|modes=[[Single-player video game|Single-player]], [[Multiplayer video game|multiplayer]]
}}

{{nihongo foot|'''''Super Mario Kart'''''|スーパーマリオカート|Sūpā Mario Kāto|lead=yes|group=lower-alpha}} is a 1992 [[kart racing game]] developed and published by [[Nintendo]] for the [[Super Nintendo Entertainment System]] (SNES). The first game in the [[Mario Kart|''Mario Kart'' series]], it was released in Japan on August 27, 1992, North America on September 1, 1992, the United Kingdom in October 1992, and Europe on January 21, 1993. Selling 8.76 million copies worldwide, the game went on to become the fourth [[List of best-selling Super Nintendo Entertainment System video games#Video games|best-selling SNES game]] of all time. ''Super Mario Kart'' was re-released on the [[Wii]]'s [[Virtual Console]] in 2009, on the [[Wii U]]'s Virtual Console in 2013, and on the [[New Nintendo 3DS]]'s Virtual Console in 2016. Nintendo re-released ''Super Mario Kart'' in 2017 as part of the company's [[Super NES Classic Edition]].

In ''Super Mario Kart'', the player takes control of one of eight [[Mario (franchise)|''Mario'' series]] characters, each with differing capabilities. In single-player mode, players can race against [[Non-player character|computer-controlled]] characters in 4 multi-race cups consisting of 20 tracks (5 in each cup) over three difficulty levels (50cc, 100cc and 150cc). During the races, offensive and speed boosting [[power-up]]s can be used to gain an advantage. Alternatively, players can race against the clock in a [[Time trial|Time Trial]] mode. In multiplayer mode, two players can simultaneously take part in the cups or can race against each other one-on-one in Match Race mode. In a third multiplayer mode – Battle Mode – the aim is to defeat the other players by attacking them with power-ups, destroying balloons which surround each kart.

''Super Mario Kart'' received positive reviews and was praised for its presentation, innovation and use of [[Mode 7]] graphics. It has been ranked among the [[List of video games considered the best|greatest video games of all time]] by several magazines and organizations. It is often credited with creating the kart racing subgenre of video games, leading other developers to try to duplicate its success. The game is seen as having been key to expanding the ''Mario'' series into non-[[platform game|platforming games]]; this diversity has led to it becoming the best-selling game franchise of all time. Several sequels to ''Super Mario Kart'' have been released for [[Video game console|consoles]], [[Handheld game console|handhelds]] and in [[arcade video game|arcades]], each enjoying critical and commercial success. While some elements have developed throughout the series, the core experience from ''Super Mario Kart'' has remained intact.

==Gameplay==
{{See also|Mario Kart#Gameplay|l1=Gameplay of the ''Mario Kart'' series}}
''Super Mario Kart'' is a [[kart racing game]] featuring several single and multiplayer modes. During the game, players take control of one of eight [[Characters in the Mario franchise|''Mario'' franchise characters]], each with differing capabilities,<ref name="npower">{{cite magazine|date=October 1992|title=Super Mario Kart|magazine=[[Nintendo Power]]|publisher=[[Nintendo]]|volume=41|pages=83–91}}</ref> and drive [[go-kart|karts]] around [[Kart circuit|tracks]] with a ''Mario'' franchise theme. In order for them to begin driving, [[Lakitu]] appears with a traffic light hanging on his fishing pole at the starting line, which starts the countdown. When the light turns green, the race or battle begins. During a race, the player's viewpoint is from behind their kart.<ref name="Allgame">{{cite web | last = Weiss | first = Brett Alan | title = Super Mario Kart | publisher = [[Allgame]] | url = http://www.allgame.com/cg/agg.dll?p=agg&sql=1:2628 | access-date =2008-01-07 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141206083454/http://www.allgame.com/game.php?id=2628 | archive-date = December 6, 2014}}</ref><ref name="CVG forgot">{{cite magazine | last = Hicks | first = Chris | title = 10 forgotten features of Super Mario Kart | magazine = [[Computer and Video Games]] | date = 2008-04-10 | url = http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=186509 | access-date = 2008-12-28 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080604053535/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=186509 | archive-date = 2008-06-04 | url-status = dead}}</ref> The goal of the game is to either finish a race ahead of other racers, who are [[Artificial intelligence (video games)|controlled by the computer]] and other players, or complete a circuit in the fastest time.<ref name="ndojo">{{cite web|last=Heckel|first=Nathan|title=Reviews – Super Mario Kart|url=http://www.nintendojo.com/reviews/SNES/view_item.php?1052508795|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061114022502/http://www.nintendojo.com/reviews/SNES/view_item.php?1052508795|archive-date=2006-11-14|access-date=2008-12-28|publisher=Nintendojo}}</ref> There is a battle mode in which the aim is to attack the karts of the other human players.

Some tracks feature [[Chevron (insignia)|chevron]]-shaped boost panels to increase speed for a brief moment. In addition, there are also short ramps that racers can use to launch themselves in the air. A combination of the two makes the player jump higher at a high speed.

Panels marked with question marks are arrayed on the race tracks; they give special abilities ([[power-up]]s) to a player's kart if the vehicle passes over them. Certain power-ups, such as the ability to throw shells and bananas, allow racers to hit other racers with objects, causing them to spin and lose control. A kart that obtains the star power-up is temporarily invincible.<ref name="npower" /> Computer players have specific special powers associated with each character that they are able to use throughout the race. Lines of coins are found on the tracks in competitive race modes. By running over these coins, a kart collects them to increase its top speed. Having coins helps players when their kart is hit by another: instead of spinning and losing control, they lose a coin.<ref name="CVG forgot" /> Coins are lost when karts are struck by power-ups or fall off the tracks.<ref name="gengap">{{cite web | last = Thomsen | first = Michael | title = Generation Gap: Mario Kart | website = IGN | date =2008-04-25| url = https://www.ign.com/articles/2008/05/20/video-generation-gap-mario-kar| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080502045454/http://insider.ign.com/articles/869/869652p1.html| archive-date = 2008-05-02 | access-date =2022-05-03}}</ref>

The game features advanced maneuvers such as [[Drifting (motorsport)|power sliding]] and [[Jumping|hopping]]. Power sliding allows a kart to maintain its speed while turning, although executing the maneuver for too long causes the kart to spin. Hopping helps a kart execute tighter turns: the kart makes a short hop and turns in the air, speeding off in the new direction when it lands.<ref name="gengap" /> Reviewers praised ''Super Mario Kart''{{'}}s gameplay, describing the battle mode as "addictive" and the single player gameplay as "incredible".<ref name="gspy">{{cite web | title = Super Mario Kart (SNES) | publisher = [[GameSpy]] | url = http://cheats.gamespy.com/super-nes/super-mario-kart/ | access-date = 2008-12-28 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090204002700/http://cheats.gamespy.com/super-nes/super-mario-kart/ | archive-date = 2009-02-04 }}</ref> ''[[IGN]]'' stated that the gameplay mechanics defined the genre.<ref name="IGN 100-07">{{cite web|year=2007|title=IGN's 100 top games Of All Time 2007|url=http://top100.ign.com/2007/ign_top_game_23.html|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120414133232/http://top100.ign.com/2007/ign_top_game_23.html|archive-date=2012-04-14|access-date=2008-12-28|website=IGN}}</ref>

===Modes===
[[File:Super Mario Kart screen shot.jpg|thumb|Single-player ''Mario Kart'' GP mode. The top half of the screen displays the player racing and a map of the course is displayed on the bottom half of the screen. The player can opt to have their rear-view mirror displayed on the bottom half instead of the course map.<ref name="CVG forgot" />]]
''Super Mario Kart'' has two [[single-player mode]]s: Mario Kart GP (which stands for [[Grand Prix motor racing|Grand Prix]]) and [[Time trial#Video games|Time Trial]]. In Mario Kart GP, one player is required to race against seven computer-controlled characters in a series of five races which are called cups. Initially, there are three cups available – the Mushroom Cup, Flower Cup, and Star Cup – at two [[difficulty level]]s, 50[[Cubic centimeter|cc]] and 100cc. By winning all three of the cups at the 100cc level, a fourth cup – the Special Cup – is unlocked. Winning all four cups at 100cc unlocks a new difficulty level, 150cc.<ref name="euro sc">{{cite web | last = Bramwell | first = Tom | title = Mario Kart Super Circuit | website = [[Eurogamer]] | date = 2001-09-27 | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/r_mksc_gba | access-date = 2008-12-29 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090226043236/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/r_mksc_gba | archive-date = 2009-02-26 | url-status = live }}</ref><ref name="IGN 64rev">{{cite web | last = Schneider | first = Peer | title = Mario Kart 64 | website = IGN | date = 1997-02-20 | url = https://www.ign.com/articles/1997/02/21/mario-kart-64| access-date = 2022-05-03 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20081223235441/http://ign64.ign.com/articles/150/150502p1.html | archive-date = 2008-12-23}}</ref> Each cup consists of five five-lap races, each taking place on a distinct track.<ref name="CVG forgot" /> In order to continue through a cup, a position of fourth or higher must be achieved in each race. If a player finishes in the fifth to eighth position, they are "ranked out" and the race must be replayed – at the cost of one of a limited number of lives – until a placing of fourth or above is achieved. If the player has no lives when they rank out, the game is over.<ref name="CVG forgot" /> Points are accrued by finishing in the top four positions in a race; first to fourth place receive nine, six, three and one points.<ref name="ndojo" /> If a player finishes in the same position three times in a row, then an [[extra life]] is awarded. The finishing order for that race will then become the starting grid for the next race; for example, if a player finishes in first place, then that player will start the next race in the same position. The racer with the highest number of points after all five races have been completed wins the cup. In time trial mode, players race against the clock through the same tracks that are present in Mario Kart GP mode, attempting to set the fastest time possible.<ref name="ndojo" />

''Super Mario Kart'' has three multiplayer modes; Mario Kart GP, Match Race, and Battle Mode. The multiplayer modes support two players and the second player uses the bottom half of the screen which is used as a map in the single-player modes. Mario Kart GP is the same as in single-player, the only difference being that there are two human-controlled and six computer-controlled drivers.<ref name="honest">{{cite web|last=Venter|first=Jason|title=Super Mario Kart : Staff Review|url=http://www.honestgamers.com/reviews/200/Super-Mario-Kart.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110505202130/http://www.honestgamers.com/reviews/200/Super-Mario-Kart.html|archive-date=2011-05-05|access-date=2008-12-28|publisher=Honest Gamers}}</ref> Match Race involves the two players going head to head on a track of their choice without any opponents.<ref name="honest" /> In Battle Mode, the two players again go head to head, but this time in one of four dedicated Battle Mode courses.<ref name="honest" /> Each player starts with three balloons around their kart which can be popped by power-ups fired by the other player.<ref name="ndojo" /> The first player to have all three of their balloons popped loses.

===Characters===
''Super Mario Kart'' features eight playable characters from the ''Mario'' series – [[Mario]], [[Luigi (character)|Luigi]], [[Princess Peach]], [[Yoshi]], [[Bowser]], [[Donkey Kong Jr. (character)|Donkey Kong Jr.]], [[Koopa Troopa]] and [[Toad (Nintendo)|Toad]].<ref name="npower" /> Each character's kart has different capabilities with differing levels of top speed, acceleration and handling.<ref name="npower" /> During races, computer-controlled characters have special items, or superpowers, which they are able to use.<ref name="CVG forgot" /> These powers are specific to each character; for example, Yoshi drops eggs which cause players who hit them to lose coins and spin, while Donkey Kong Jr. throws bananas.<ref name="npower" />

The characters are rendered as [[Sprite (computer graphics)|sprites]] portrayed from sixteen different angles.<ref name="ndojo" /> In 2005, Nintendojo called the sprites "not-so-pretty" when they are rendered at a distance, and ''IGN'' has commented on the dated look of the game.<ref name="ndojo" /><ref name="gengap" /> ''Super Mario Kart'' was the first game to feature playable characters from the ''Mario'' series other than Mario or Luigi in a non-platforming game and the selection and different attributes of the characters is regarded as one of the game's strengths, ''IGN'' describing a well-balanced "all-star cast".<ref name="GS ggoat">{{cite web|last=Navarro|first=Alex|title=The Greatest Games of All Time: Super Mario Kart|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/the-greatest-games-of-all-time-super-mario-kart/1100-6136230/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120108064044/http://www.gamespot.com/features/the-greatest-games-of-all-time-super-mario-kart-6136230/|archive-date=2012-01-08|access-date=2022-05-03|website=[[GameSpot]]}}</ref><ref name="IGN retro">{{cite web | last = Bozon | first = Mark | title = Retro Remix: Round 8 | website = IGN | date = 2006-04-25 | url =https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/04/25/retro-remix-round-8| access-date = 2022-05-03 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070929092202/http://wii.ign.com/articles/703/703279p1.html | archive-date = 2007-09-29}}</ref> All of the characters present in ''Super Mario Kart'' have gone on to appear in later games in the [[Mario Kart|series]], except for Donkey Kong Jr. and Koopa Troopa, who have only appeared intermittently after being replaced by [[Donkey Kong (character)|Donkey Kong]] and [[Wario]] respectively in ''Mario Kart 64''.<ref name="GS then & now">{{cite web | last = Anderson | first = Lark | title = Then & Now: Mario Kart Wii | website = [[GameSpot]] | date = 2008-04-28 | url = http://www.gamespot.com/features/6189887/index.html | access-date = 2008-12-28 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20081201175007/http://www.gamespot.com/features/6189887/index.html | archive-date = 2008-12-01 | url-status = live }}</ref>

===Tracks===
The tracks in ''Super Mario Kart'' are based on locations in ''[[Super Mario World]]'' such as Donut Plains.<ref name="GS ggoat" /> Each of the four cups contains five different tracks for a total of twenty unique tracks, additionally there are four unique Battle Mode courses.<ref name="npower" /><ref name="SMK">{{cite video game| title = Super Mario Kart| developer = [[Nintendo Entertainment Analysis and Development|Nintendo EAD]]| publisher = [[Nintendo]]| date = 1992-08-27| platform = [[Super Nintendo Entertainment System|Super NES]]}}</ref> The course outlines are marked out by impassable barriers and feature a variety of bends ranging from sharp hairpins to wide curves which players can power slide around.<ref name="gengap" /> Numerous obstacles themed from the ''Mario'' series appear, such as Thwomps in the [[Bowser's Castle]] tracks, the Cheep-Cheeps from ''Super Mario World'' in Koopa Beach and pipe barriers which are found in the Mario Circuit tracks.<ref name="npower" /> Other features include off-road sections which slow down the karts such as the mud bogs in the Choco Island tracks.<ref name="npower" /> Each cup track is littered with coins and power-up tiles, as well as turbo tiles which give the karts a boost of speed and jumps which launch the karts into the air.<ref name="npower" />

The tracks have received positive commentary, with [[GameSpy]] describing them as wonderfully designed and ''IGN'' calling them perfect.<ref name="gspy" /><ref name="IGN retro" /> When naming its top five ''Mario Kart'' tracks of all time in 2008, ''[[1UP.com]]'' named Battle Mode Course 4 at number three and [[Rainbow Road (Mario Kart)|Rainbow Road]] – along with its subsequent versions in the series – at number one.<ref name="5tracks">{{cite web|title=Top 5 Mario Kart Tracks|website=[[1UP.com]]|url=http://www.1up.com/features/top-5-mario-kart-tracks|access-date=2008-12-28|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151101094643/http://www.1up.com/features/top-5-mario-kart-tracks|archive-date=2015-11-01}}</ref> The track themes in ''Super Mario Kart'' influenced later games in the series; recurring themes that first appeared in ''Super Mario Kart'' include haunted tracks, Bowser's Castle and Rainbow Road.<ref name="GS then & now" /> Some of the tracks from ''Super Mario Kart'' have reappeared in later games, including the [[Game Boy Advance]] title ''[[Mario Kart: Super Circuit]]'', which features all twenty tracks as an unlockable extra feature.<ref name="GS sc">{{cite web|last=Ajami|first=Amer|title=Mario Kart Super Circuit Review|website=[[GameSpot]]|date=2008-04-17|url=http://www.gamespot.com/gba/driving/mariokartsupercircuit/review.html|access-date=2008-12-29|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091218051316/http://www.gamespot.com/gba/driving/mariokartsupercircuit/review.html?om_act=convert&om_clk=gssummary&tag=summary;read-review|archive-date=2009-12-18|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Development==
[[File:Shigeru Miyamoto 2015 (cropped).jpg|thumb|[[Shigeru Miyamoto]], the producer for ''Super Mario Kart'', has been involved in the development of every ''Mario Kart'' console game except for ''[[Mario Kart World]]''.|alt=]]
''Super Mario Kart'' was produced by ''Mario'' creator [[Shigeru Miyamoto]] and directed by [[Tadashi Sugiyama]] and [[Hideki Konno]].<ref>{{cite video game |title=Super Mario Kart |developer=[[Nintendo Entertainment Analysis and Development]] |publisher=[[Nintendo]] |date=1 September 1992 |scene=staff credits}}</ref> The development team set out to produce a racing game capable of displaying two players on the same game screen simultaneously,<ref name="overalls">{{cite web | title = It Started With A Guy In Overalls | publisher = Nintendo | url = https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Iwata-Asks/Iwata-Asks-Mario-Kart-Wii/Bringing-Racers-Together/1-It-Started-With-A-Guy-In-Overalls/1-It-Started-With-A-Guy-In-Overalls-214509.html | access-date = 2022-05-03 | url-status = live | archive-date = 2022-10-11 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20221011164812/https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Iwata-Asks/Iwata-Asks-Mario-Kart-Wii/Bringing-Racers-Together/1-It-Started-With-A-Guy-In-Overalls/1-It-Started-With-A-Guy-In-Overalls-214509.html }}</ref> in contrast to the [[Single-player video game|single-player]] [[gameplay]] ''[[F-Zero (video game)|F-Zero]]''.<ref name="overalls" /> This led to simpler tracks than those of ''F-Zero''.<ref name="Antigravity">{{cite web | last = Otero | first = Jose | title = HOW ANTI-GRAVITY MADE MARIO KART BETTER | website = IGN | date = 29 May 2014 | url = http://www.ign.com/articles/2014/05/29/how-anti-gravity-made-mario-kart-better | access-date = June 18, 2014 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140602065530/http://www.ign.com/articles/2014/05/29/how-anti-gravity-made-mario-kart-better | archive-date = 2 June 2014 | url-status = live }}</ref> ''[[Computer and Video Games]]'' suggest that this initial emphasis on creating a two player experience is the reason for the game's horizontal split-screen during single-player.<ref name="CVG forgot" /> Battle Mode was developed from the desire to create a one-on-one mode where victory was not determined simply by competing for rank.<ref name="overalls" /> Masato Kimura, who worked on ''F-Zero'', served as the lead programmer for ''Super Mario Kart''.<ref name="1992 interview">{{cite web|url=http://shmuplations.com/supermariokart/|title=Super Mario Kart – 1992 Developer Interview|website=Shmuplations|access-date=May 5, 2021|archive-date=May 12, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210512164834/https://shmuplations.com/supermariokart/|url-status=live}}</ref>

The game did not start out as a ''Mario'' series game and the first prototype featured a generic kart racer character; the team decided that characters three heads tall would best suit the design of the karts.<ref name="overalls" /> They did not decide to incorporate ''Mario'' characters until a few months into development.<ref name="overalls" /> The choice was made after the development team observed how one kart looked to another driving past it, decided to see what it would look like with Mario in the kart.<ref name="overalls" /> Thinking that having Mario in the kart looked better than previous designs, the idea of a Mario themed racing game was born.<ref name="overalls" />

Notable in the development of ''Super Mario Kart'' was its use of [[Mode 7]] graphics.<ref name="1UP 15snes">{{cite web | last = Barnholt | first = Ray | title = Purple Reign: 15 Years of the Super NES | website = [[1UP.com]] | date = 9 April 2006 | url = http://www.1up.com/do/feature?pager.offset=4&cId=3152604 | access-date = 2008-12-28 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070927213636/http://www.1up.com/do/feature?pager.offset=4&cId=3152604 | archive-date = 27 September 2007 }}</ref> First seen in ''F-Zero'', Mode 7 is a form of texture mapping available on the SNES which allows a plane to be rotated and scaled freely, achieving a pseudo-three-dimensional appearance.<ref name="1up ess50">{{cite web|last=Hirandand|first=Ravi|title=The Essential 50 #29|url=http://www.1up.com/do/feature?cId=3134033|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060513211242/http://www.1up.com/do/feature?cId=3134033|archive-date=2006-05-13|access-date=2008-12-28|website=[[1UP.com]]}}</ref><ref name="1UP 15snes" /> ''1UP.com'' have credited the use of Mode 7 with giving the game graphics which at the time of release were considered to be "breathtaking".<ref name="1up ess50" /> Retrospective reflection on the Mode 7 visuals was mixed, with ''IGN'' stating that the once revolutionary technology now looks "crude and flickery".<ref name="gengap" /> ''Super Mario Kart'' featured a DSP (Digital Signal Processor) chip; DSPs were used in SNES games as they provided a better handling of [[floating point]] calculations to assist with three-dimensional maths.<ref name="1UP 15snes" /> The [[DSP (Nintendo)#DSP-1|DSP-1]] chip that was used in ''Super Mario Kart'' went on to be the most popular DSP chip to be used in SNES games.<ref name="1UP 15snes" /> The music for the game was created by composer Soyo Oka, who previously composed games for Nintendo such as ''[[Pilotwings (video game)|Pilotwings]]'' and ''[[Ice Hockey (1988 video game)|Ice Hockey]]''.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.jcaa1970.com/arrangers/konsakka4.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101211192902/http://www.jcaa1970.com/arrangers/konsakka4.htm |archive-date=11 December 2010 |title=今月の作家 |author=Soyo Oka |publisher=Japan Composers & Arrangers Association |date=June 2001 }}</ref>

==Reception==
{{Video game reviews
| GR = 94%<ref name="grankings" />
| CVG = 96%<ref>{{cite magazine |title=Super Mario Kart |magazine=[[Computer and Video Games]] |date=15 November 1992 |issue=133 (December 1992) |pages=36–8 |url=https://retrocdn.net/images/8/87/CVG_UK_133.pdf#page=36 |access-date=1 October 2021 |archive-date=27 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211127045917/https://retrocdn.net/images/8/87/CVG_UK_133.pdf#page=36 |url-status=live }}</ref>
| EGM = 9/10, 9/10, 8/10, 8/10<ref name=EGMRev>{{cite magazine |url=https://archive.gamehistory.org/item/655cda65-223d-48a3-97ff-34927b1aa19c|via=[[Video Game History Foundation]] |title=Review Crew |magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]] |date=November 1992 |page=25 |access-date=September 22, 2025|last1=Harris|first1=Steve|last2=Semrad|first2=Ed|last3=Alessi|first3=Martin|author4=Sushi-X|volume=5|issue=11}}</ref>
| rev1 = ''[[Bad Influence!]]''
| rev1Score = 9/10<ref name="BI">{{Cite episode |title=Main Review: Super Mario Kart |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kp-sEL-eavE |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211211/Kp-sEL-eavE| archive-date=2021-12-11 |url-status=live|access-date=14 October 2021 |series=Bad Influence! |series-link=Bad Influence! |network=[[ITV (TV network)|ITV]] |station=[[CITV]] |date=17 December 1992 |series-no=1 |number=8 |time=3:37}}{{cbignore}}</ref>
| rev2 = ''Cubed3''
| rev2Score = 9/10<ref name="C3 rev">{{cite web|last=Bianco|first=Karn Spyder Lee|title=Super Mario Kart|publisher=Cubed³|date=2003-09-07|url=http://www.cubed3.com/review/194/|access-date=2008-12-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120224005915/http://www.cubed3.com/review/194/|archive-date=2012-02-24|url-status=live}}</ref>
| rev3 = ''[[Electronic Games]]''
| rev3Score = 93%<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://archive.org/stream/Electronic-Games-1992-12/Electronic%20Games%201992-12#page/n77/mode/2up |title=''Electronic Games'', December 1992, pp. 79-80 |date=December 1992 |access-date=2014-12-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150408140642/https://archive.org/stream/Electronic-Games-1992-12/Electronic%20Games%201992-12#page/n77/mode/2up |archive-date=2015-04-08 |url-status=live }}</ref>
| rev4 = ''HonestGamers''
| rev4Score = 10/10<ref name="honest" />
| rev5 = ''[[Mean Machines]]''
| rev5Score = 92%<ref name="mean" />
| rev6 = ''Nintendojo''
| rev6Score = 9.5/10<ref name="ndojo" />
| rev8 = ''[[SNES Force]]''
| rev8Score = 90%<ref>{{cite magazine |title=The Super League |magazine=[[SNES Force]] |date=23 December 1993 |issue=8 (January 1994) |page=30 |url=https://archive.org/details/SNESForce04Oct93/SNESForce08-Jan94/page/n29}}</ref>
| rev9 = ''Thunderbolt''
| rev9Score = 10/10<ref name="thunder" />
}}

''Super Mario Kart'' received critical acclaim and proved to be a commercial success; it received a [[Nintendo Selects|Player's Choice]] release after selling one million copies and went on to sell 8.76 million copies worldwide, becoming the fourth [[List of best-selling Super Nintendo Entertainment System video games|best-selling game ever for the SNES]].<ref name=npower /><ref>{{cite web|title=Super Mario Kart Players Choice Box Image|website=GameFAQs |url=http://www.gamefaqs.com/snes/588738-super-mario-kart/images/box-89458 |access-date=2014-07-03|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140705174743/http://www.gamefaqs.com/snes/588738-super-mario-kart/images/box-89458|archive-date=2014-07-05|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2014/06/02/mario-kart-8-speeds-to-over-1-2-million-sales-in-opening-weekend.aspx|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140604084937/https://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2014/06/02/mario-kart-8-speeds-to-over-1-2-million-sales-in-opening-weekend.aspx|url-status=live |archive-date=4 June 2014|title=Mario Kart 8 Speeds To Over 1.2 Million Sales In Opening Weekend|last=Futter|first=Mike|date=2 June 2014|magazine=[[Game Informer]]|publisher=[[GameStop]] |access-date=2 June 2014}}</ref> In Japan, it was the top-selling game in September 1992<ref name="Super-Play">{{cite magazine |title=Charts Would Be a Fine Thing! |magazine=[[Super Play]] |date=1 October 1992 |issue=1 (November 1992) |page=17 |url=https://archive.org/details/Superplay_Issue_01_1992-11_Future_Publishing_GB/page/n16/mode/1up}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |title=Weekly Top 30 (9月18日) |magazine=[[Famicom Tsūshin]] |date=2 October 1992 |issue=198 |pages=14–5 |url=https://archive.org/details/WeeklyFamitsuNo198Clearscan/Weekly%20Famitsu%20-%20No.%20198%20October%202nd%201992/page/n13/mode/2up |lang=ja}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |title=Weekly Top 30 (9月25日) |magazine=[[Famicom Tsūshin]] |date=9 October 1992 |issue=199 |pages=14–5 |url=https://archive.org/details/WeeklyFamitsuNo199Clearscan/Weekly%20Famitsu%20-%20No.%20199%20October%209th%201992/page/n13/mode/2up |lang=ja}}</ref> and became a multi-million seller in 1992,<ref name="N-Force">{{cite magazine |title=Super Savings! |magazine=N-Force |date=March 1993 |issue=10 (April 1993) |publisher=[[Europress]] |page=12 |url=https://archive.org/details/NForce07Jan93/NForce10-Apr93/page/n11}}</ref> eventually selling a total of {{nowrap|3.82 million}} in Japan.<ref>{{cite web |title=Japan Platinum Chart Games |url=http://www.the-magicbox.com/Chart-JPPlatinum.shtml |website=The Magic Box |access-date=24 February 2021 |archive-date=7 August 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160807204211/http://the-magicbox.com/Chart-JPPlatinum.shtml |url-status=live }}</ref> In Europe, it was the top-selling game during the first quarter of 1993, above the [[Sega Mega Drive]] titles ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog 2]]'' and ''[[Streets of Rage 2]]'' during the same period.<ref name="Famitsu89">{{cite magazine |title=Count Down Hot 100: Worldwide! |magazine=[[Famicom Tsūshin]] |date=16 April 1993 |issue=226 |page=89 |lang=ja |url=https://archive.org/details/famitsu-issue-226-apr-1993/page/89}}</ref> In the United Kingdom, ''Super Mario Kart'' was the top-selling Super NES game in February 1993,<ref>{{cite magazine |title=Charts (Data supplied by Virgin Games Centre) |magazine=[[Digitiser]] |date=4 March 1993 |url=http://www.superpage58.com/digitiser-vault-teletext-screenshot-image-archive-1993-03-04.htm |access-date=15 March 2021 |archive-date=16 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210516110749/http://www.superpage58.com/digitiser-vault-teletext-screenshot-image-archive-1993-03-04.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> and it went on to be the seventh best-selling game of 1993 with more than 250,000 sales in the country.<ref>{{cite journal |title=Top-Selling Video Game Titles In UK — 1993 (All Formats) |journal=[[Screen Digest]] |date=1994 |page=110 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=WVnvAAAAMAAJ |publisher=Screen Digest Limited |quote='''nb''' sales level at number 5 = 400,000 units, at number 9 = 250,000 units, at number 10 = 200,000 units <br /> Source: [[Gallup (company)|Gallup]]-[[ELSPA]]/Electronic Arts/[[MCV/Develop|CTW]] |access-date=2021-10-24 |archive-date=2022-10-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221011164808/https://books.google.com/books?id=WVnvAAAAMAAJ |url-status=live }}</ref>

Aggregate scoring sites [[GameRankings]] and [[MobyGames]] both give an average of more than 90&nbsp;percent.<ref name=grankings>{{cite web|title=Super Mario Kart reviews|website=[[GameRankings]]|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/snes/588738-super-mario-kart/index.html|access-date=2008-12-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120410005923/http://www.gamerankings.com/snes/588738-super-mario-kart/index.html |archive-date=2012-04-10|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=mobyg>{{cite web | title = Super Mario Kart | website = [[MobyGames]] | url = http://www.mobygames.com/game/snes/super-mario-kart/mobyrank | access-date = 2008-12-28 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20081205195426/http://www.mobygames.com/game/snes/super-mario-kart/mobyrank | archive-date = 2008-12-05 | url-status = live}}</ref> Critics praised the game's Mode 7 graphics.<ref name="IGN 100-07" /> Another aspect of the game to have been praised is its gameplay, which ''Thunderbolt'' has described as the "deepest [and] most addictive... to be found on the SNES console".<ref name=thunder>{{cite web | last = Kramer | first = Josh | title = Super Mario Kart – SNES Review at Thunderbolt Games | publisher = Thunderbolt | date = 2004-07-29 | url = http://www.thunderboltgames.com/reviews/article/super-mario-kart-review-for-snes.html | access-date = 2008-12-28 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090207185939/http://www.thunderboltgames.com/reviews/article/super-mario-kart-review-for-snes.html | archive-date = 2009-02-07 | url-status = dead }}</ref> Retrospective reviews of the game have been positive with perfect scores given by review sites including ''Thunderbolt'' and ''HonestGamers''. The use of the style and characters from the ''Mario'' franchise was also praised as well as the individual characteristics of each racer.<ref name="honest" /><ref name=thunder /><ref name=ONM>{{cite journal |last = Scullion |first = Chris | title = What Do You Mean, You've Never Played... Super Mario Kart | journal = [[Official Nintendo Magazine]] | volume = 15 | page = 15 | publisher = [[Future plc|Future Publishing]] }}</ref> ''[[Mean Machines]]'' described the game as having "struck gold" in a way that no other – not even its sequels – has matched and ''[[GameSpot]]'' named the game as one of the greatest games of all time for its innovation, gameplay and visual style.<ref name="GS ggoat" /><ref name="mean">{{cite magazine| title = Super Mario Kart review – Super NES| magazine = [[Mean Machines]]| url = http://www.meanmachinesmag.co.uk/review/404/super-mario-kart.php| access-date = 2008-12-28| url-status = dead| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090207180557/http://www.meanmachinesmag.co.uk/review/404/super-mario-kart.php| archive-date = 2009-02-07}}</ref> ''[[Entertainment Weekly]]'' wrote that although the game might appear to be a "cynical attempt by Nintendo to cash in on its ''Super Mario'' franchise" the review concluded that "plunking the familiar characters down in souped-up go-carts actually makes for a delightful racing game."<ref>{{cite web |title=Holiday video game guide: 1992 |url=https://ew.com/article/1992/12/04/holiday-video-game-guide-1992/ |website=EW.com |language=en |access-date=2018-09-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180907032246/https://ew.com/article/1992/12/04/holiday-video-game-guide-1992/ |archive-date=2018-09-07 |url-status=live }}</ref> ''[[GamePro]]'' said the game "does an excellent job of capturing the thrill of Go-cart racing, and wraps it up in the familiar, fun, ''Mario''-land atmosphere." The reviewer also praised the use of Mode 7 and challenging CPU-controlled opponents.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://retrocdn.net/images/2/26/GamePro_US_041.pdf |title=Super NES Pro Review: ''Super Mario Kart'' |author=Bro. Buzz |magazine=[[GamePro]] |date=December 1992 |issue=51 |pages=80–82 |access-date=2019-12-13 |archive-date=2019-10-31 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191031020814/https://retrocdn.net/images/2/26/GamePro_US_041.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>

''Super Mario Kart'' has been listed among the best games ever made several times. In 1995, ''[[Total!]]'' rated the game 16th on its "Top 100 SNES Games."<ref>{{Cite journal |date=July 1995 |title=Top 100 SNES Games |url=https://archive.org/details/total-43/page/n39/mode/2up |journal=Total! |issue=43 |pages=41}}</ref> In 1996, ''[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]'' listed it as number 37 on their "Top 100 Games of All Time", commenting that the controls are elegantly designed to offer "supreme fun".<ref name="NGen21">{{cite magazine|date=September 1996|title=Top 100 Games of All Time|magazine=[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]|publisher=[[Imagine Media]]|issue=21|page=56}}</ref> In 1996, ''[[GamesMaster (magazine)|GamesMaster]]'' ranked the game 16th on their "Top 100 Games of All Time".<ref>{{Cite journal |date=July 1996 |title=Top 100 Games of All Time |url=https://retrocdn.net/images/c/cf/GamesMaster_UK_044.pdf |journal=GamesMaster |issue=44 |pages=77 |access-date=2022-07-13 |archive-date=2022-07-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220705151248/https://retrocdn.net/images/c/cf/GamesMaster_UK_044.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> In 1999, ''[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]'' listed ''Super Mario Kart'' as number 7 on their "Top 50 Games of All Time", commenting that, "Imitated a thousand times, but never, ever, equalled, ''Mario Kart'' changed the rules for the driving game and gave the world one of the most engrossing and addictive two-player experiences ever".<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Top 50 Games of All Time |magazine=[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]|issue=50 |publisher=[[Imagine Media]] |date=February 1999|page=80}}</ref> ''Electronic Gaming Monthly'' ranked it as the 15th best console video game of all time, attributing its higher ranking than ''Mario Kart 64'' (which came in 49th) to its superior track design and powerups.<ref>{{cite magazine |title=100 Best Games of All Time |magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]]|issue=100 |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |date=November 1997|page=148}} Note: Contrary to the title, the intro to the article (on page 100) explicitly states that the list covers console video games only, meaning PC games and arcade games were not eligible.</ref> ''IGN'' ranked it as the 15th best game ever in 2005, describing it as "the original karting masterpiece" and as the 23rd best game ever in 2007, discussing its originality at time of release.<ref name="IGN 100-07" /><ref>{{cite web |title=IGN's Top 100 Games|website=IGN|year=2005|url=http://top100.ign.com/2005/011-020.html |access-date=2008-12-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160419044513/http://top100.ign.com/2005/011-020.html|archive-date=2016-04-19|url-status=dead}}</ref> ''[[The Age]]'' placed it at number 19 on their list of the 50 best games in 2005 and in 2007 ''[[Edge (magazine)|Edge]]'' ranked ''Super Mario Kart'' at number 14 on a list of their 100 best games, noting its continued influence on [[video game design]].<ref name="edge100">{{cite magazine|date=2007-07-02|title=Edges's Top 100 Games of All Time|url=http://www.next-gen.biz/features/edges-top-100-games-all-time|url-status=dead|magazine=[[Edge (magazine)|Edge]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080822053639/http://www.edge-online.com/magazine/edges-top-100-games-of-all-time?page=0%2C8|archive-date=2008-08-22|access-date=2008-12-28}}</ref><ref name="age">{{cite news|last=Hill|first=Jason|date=2005-06-10|title=The 50 best games|newspaper=[[The Age]]|url=http://theage.com.au/technology/the-50-best-games-20051006-gdm6uh.html|url-status=live|access-date=2022-05-03|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080209221355/http://www.theage.com.au/news/livewire/the-50-best-games/2005/10/04/1128191720699.html|archive-date=2008-02-09}}</ref> The game is included in ''[[Yahoo! Games|Yahoo Games UK]]''{{'}}s list of the hundred greatest games of all time which praises the appealing characters and power ups and ''1UP.com''{{'}}s "Essential 50", a list of the fifty most important games ever made.<ref name="1up ess50" /><ref>{{cite web|title=The 100 greatest computer games of all time |website=[[Yahoo! Games]] UK |url=http://uk.videogames.games.yahoo.com/specials/100games/1.html |access-date=2008-12-28 |url-status=bot: unknown |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081010231840/http://uk.videogames.games.yahoo.com/specials/100games/1.html |archive-date=2008-10-10 }}</ref> The game placed 13th in ''[[Official Nintendo Magazine]]''{{'}}s 100 greatest Nintendo games of all time.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=http://www.officialnintendomagazine.co.uk/article.php?id=7258|title=20-11 Official Nintendo Magazine|magazine=[[Official Nintendo Magazine]]|access-date=2009-02-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090225040521/http://www.officialnintendomagazine.co.uk/article.php?id=7258|archive-date=2009-02-25|url-status=dead}}</ref> ''Guinness World Records'' ranked it at number 1 on a list of the top 50 console games of all time based on initial impact and lasting legacy.<ref name="guinness50">{{cite magazine|last=Ivan|first=Tom|date=2009-02-28|title=Guinness ranks top 50 games of all time|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=209385|url-status=dead|magazine=[[Computer and Video Games]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130515033203/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/209385/guinness-ranks-top-50-games-of-all-time/|archive-date=2013-05-15|access-date=2009-03-14}}</ref> ''[[Game Informer]]'' ranked the game at 35 on their top 100 games of all time in 2001 praising how the game's Mode 7 revolutionized racing games.<ref>{{Cite magazine|last=Cork|first=Jeff|title=Game Informer's Top 100 Games Of All Time (Circa Issue 100)|url=https://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2009/11/16/game-informer-s-top-100-games-of-all-time-circa-issue-100.aspx|access-date=2020-11-30|magazine=Game Informer|language=en|archive-date=2020-09-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200924151536/https://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2009/11/16/game-informer-s-top-100-games-of-all-time-circa-issue-100.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2018, ''[[Complex Networks|Complex]]'' listed ''Super Mario Kart'' seventh on its "The Best Super Nintendo Games of All Time".<ref>{{Cite web|last=Knight|first=Rich|date=April 30, 2018|title=The Best Super Nintendo Games of All Time|url=https://www.complex.com/pop-culture/the-100-best-super-nintendo-games/|access-date=2022-02-16|website=Complex|archive-date=2022-01-09|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220109005057/https://www.complex.com/pop-culture/the-100-best-super-nintendo-games/|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2019, [[The Strong National Museum of Play]] inducted ''Super Mario Kart'' to its [[World Video Game Hall of Fame]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Super Mario Kart |url=https://www.museumofplay.org/games/super-mario-kart/ |website=[[The Strong National Museum of Play]] |publisher=[[The Strong]] |access-date=6 May 2022 |archive-date=6 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220506125337/https://www.museumofplay.org/games/super-mario-kart/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Legacy==
{{Further|List of video games featuring Mario|List of Mario sports games}}
{{Cleanup rewrite|it contains too much information about sequels and other games|2=section|date=July 2025}}
''Super Mario Kart'' has been credited with inventing the "kart racing" subgenre of video gaming; after its release, several other developers attempted to duplicate its success.<ref name="GS ggoat"/><ref name="gspy"/><ref name="CVG retro">{{cite magazine | last = Robinson | first = Andy | title = Mario Kart: From SNES to Wii | magazine = [[Computer and Video Games]] | date = 9 April 2008 | url = http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=186448 | access-date = 2008-12-28 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090528160519/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=186448 | archive-date = 28 May 2009 | url-status = dead}}</ref><ref name="IGN dd">{{cite web | last = Alfonso | first = Andrew | title = Mario Kart Double Dash!! Guide | website = IGN | url = http://guides.ign.com/guides/16574/ | access-date = 2008-12-28 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090101225557/http://guides.ign.com/guides/16574/ | archive-date = 2009-01-01 | url-status = dead }}</ref> In 1994, less than two years after the release of ''Super Mario Kart'', [[Sega]] released ''[[Sonic Drift]]''; a kart racing game featuring characters from the [[Sonic the Hedgehog|''Sonic the Hedgehog'' series]].<ref name="1up ess50"/> Also in 1994, [[Ubisoft]] released ''[[Street Racer (1994 video game)|Street Racer]]'', a kart racing game for the [[Super Nintendo Entertainment System|SNES]] and [[Sega Genesis|Mega Drive/Genesis]] which included a four player mode not present in ''Super Mario Kart''.<ref name="1up ess50"/> [[Apogee Software]] released ''[[Wacky Wheels]]'' for PC and [[Atari Corporation]] released ''[[Atari Karts]]'' for the [[Atari Jaguar]] in 1995. Future games that followed in the mould of ''Super Mario Kart'' include ''[[South Park Rally]]'', ''[[Konami Krazy Racers]]'', ''[[Diddy Kong Racing]]'', ''[[Sonic & Sega All-Stars Racing]]'' and several racing games in the ''[[Crash Bandicoot]]'' series.<ref name="1up ess50"/><ref name="gspy sc">{{cite web | last = Bub | first = Andrew S. | title = Reviews: Mario Kart: Super Circuit (GBA) | publisher = [[GameSpy]] | url = http://archive.gamespy.com/reviews/september01/mariokart/ | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080803125225/http://archive.gamespy.com/reviews/september01/mariokart/ | archive-date = 2008-08-03 | access-date = 2008-12-29}}</ref> Response to the karting games released since ''Super Mario Kart'' has been mixed, with ''GameSpot'' describing them as tending to be bad while ''1UP.com'' notes that countless developers have tried to improve upon the ''Mario Kart'' formula without success.<ref name="1up ess50"/><ref name="GS msports">{{cite web | last = Ekberg | first = Brian | author2 = Randall Montanari | title = History of Mario Sports Games | website = [[GameSpot]] | url = https://www.gamespot.com/articles/history-of-mario-sports-games/1100-6236695/ | access-date = 2022-05-02 | archive-date = 2022-05-03 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220503163154/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/history-of-mario-sports-games/1100-6236695/ | url-status = live }}</ref>

''Super Mario Kart'' is credited as being the first non-platforming game to feature multiple playable characters from the ''Mario'' franchise.<ref name="GS ggoat"/> As well as [[#Sequels|several sequels]] Nintendo has released numerous other sporting and non-sporting Mario spin-offs since ''Super Mario Kart''; a trend in part accredited to the commercial and critical success of the game.<ref name="GS msports"/> The ''Mario'' characters have appeared in many sports games including those relating to basketball, baseball, golf, tennis, and association football (soccer).<ref name="GS msports" /> Non-sporting franchises using the ''Mario'' characters have been created, including the [[Super Smash Bros. (series)|''Super Smash Bros.'' series]] of fighting games and the [[Mario Party|''Mario Party'' series]] of board game-based party games. ''Mario'' series characters have made cameos in games from other series such as ''[[SSX on Tour]]'' and ''[[NBA Street V3]]'', both published by [[EA Sports]].<ref name="GS msports" /> The genre-spanning nature of the ''Mario'' series that was sparked off by the success of ''Super Mario Kart'' has been described as key to the success and longevity of the franchise; keeping people interested despite the infrequency of traditional [[Mario (franchise)|''Mario'' platforming games]].<ref name="1up ess50" /> Following this model the ''Mario'' series has gone on to become the best selling video game franchise of all time with 193 million units sold as of January 2007, almost 40 million units ahead of second-ranked franchise ''[[Pokémon]]'', also by Nintendo.<ref name="Sutra M#1">{{cite web|last=Jenkins|first=David|date=2007-01-10|title=Mario Tops Best Selling Game Franchise List|url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/game-platforms/mario-tops-best-selling-game-franchise-list|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080617160750/http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=12349|archive-date=2008-06-17|access-date=2022-05-03|website=Game Developer}}</ref>

''Super Mario Kart'' was re-released on the [[List of Virtual Console games for Wii (Japan)|Japanese Virtual Console]] on June 9, 2009, and later in North America on November 23, 2009.<ref name="JP VC">{{cite web|title=Virtual Console バーチャルコンソール|url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/wii/vc/vc_mk/index.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090609043913/http://www.nintendo.co.jp/wii/vc/vc_mk/index.html|archive-date=2009-06-09|access-date=2008-07-14|publisher=[[Nintendo]]|language=ja}}</ref> Previously, when naming it as one of the most wanted games for the platform in November 2008, ''[[Eurogamer]]'' stated that problems emulating the Mode 7 graphics were responsible for its absence.<ref name="euro VC">{{cite web | last = Whitehead | first = Dan | title = Virtual Console: The Most Wanted | website = [[Eurogamer]] | date = 11 May 2008 | url = https://www.eurogamer.net/virtual-console-the-most-wanted-article | access-date = 3 May 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100620194415/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/virtual-console-the-most-wanted-article | archive-date = 20 June 2010 | url-status = live }}</ref>

The game was released for the Wii U [[Virtual Console]] in Japan during June 2013, and in Europe on March 27, 2014.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://nintendoeverything.com/japans-wii-u-vc-releases-next-week-include-super-mario-kart |title=Japan's Wii U VC releases next week include Super Mario Kart |date=12 June 2013 |access-date=2014-01-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140103214946/http://nintendoeverything.com/japans-wii-u-vc-releases-next-week-include-super-mario-kart/ |archive-date=2014-01-03 |url-status=live }}</ref> In addition, North American users were able to get the game starting from August 6, 2014 to celebrate the 22nd anniversary of the game, which included the new game update of ''[[Mario Kart 8]]'' on August 27, 2014.

In 2016, the game was re-released for the [[New Nintendo 3DS]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-03-23 |title=Review: Super Mario Kart (New 3DS / SNES) |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/new-3ds/super_mario_kart_snes |access-date=2023-04-15 |website=Nintendo Life |language=en-GB |archive-date=2024-08-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240816154711/https://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/new-3ds/super_mario_kart_snes |url-status=live }}</ref>

Nintendo re-released ''Super Mario Kart'' in 2017 as part of the company's [[Super NES Classic Edition]].<ref>{{cite web|date=September 29, 2017|title=Super NES Classic Edition|url=https://www.nintendo.com/super-nes-classic|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170928025849/https://www.nintendo.com/super-nes-classic|archive-date=September 28, 2017|access-date=September 29, 2017|publisher=[[Nintendo of America, Inc.]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Metro Kingdom Power Moon 73 - RC Car Champ! - Super Mario Odyssey Wiki Guide |url=https://www.ign.com/wikis/super-mario-odyssey/Metro_Kingdom_Power_Moon_73_-_RC_Car_Champ! |access-date=2023-04-15 |website=IGN |date=17 November 2017 |language=en}}</ref>

''[[Super Mario 3D World]]'' has a stage with a look based on the Mario Circuit racetracks from ''Super Mario Kart''. A remixed version of the music can be heard. ''[[Super Mario Odyssey]]'' has a remix, when racing an RC car around a track in New Donk City in the Metro Kingdom.<ref>{{Cite web |title=World 3-6 Mount Must Dash - Super Mario 3D World Wiki Guide |url=https://www.ign.com/wikis/super-mario-3d-world/World_3-6_Mount_Must_Dash |access-date=2023-04-15 |website=IGN |date=21 November 2013 |language=en |archive-date=2024-08-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240816154717/https://www.ign.com/wikis/super-mario-3d-world/World_3-6_Mount_Must_Dash |url-status=live }}</ref>

Several future ''Mario Kart'' games contain re-imaginings of courses from ''Super Mario Kart''. ''[[Mario Kart: Super Circuit]]'' contains all of them, though they need to be unlocked. ''[[Mario Kart DS]]'' contains remakes of the Mario Circuit 1, Donut Plains 1, Koopa Beach 2, and Choco Island 2 courses. ''[[Mario Kart Wii]]'' has remakes of the Ghost Valley 2 and Mario Circuit 3 courses. ''[[Mario Kart 7]]'' has remakes of the Mario Circuit 2 and Rainbow Road courses. ''[[Mario Kart 8]]'' has remakes of the Donut Plains 3 and Rainbow Road courses, though the latter is only available as [[downloadable content]] in the original release. The enhanced [[Nintendo Switch]] port of ''Mario Kart 8'', ''[[Mario Kart 8 Deluxe]]'', later added remakes of the Mario Circuit 3 and Bowser Castle 3 courses as downloadable content.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Guisao |first=Jason |date=July 28, 2022 |title=''Mario Kart 8 Deluxe'' – Booster Course Pass Wave 2 Races Into Action Next Month |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/2022/07/28/mario-kart-8-deluxe-booster-course-pass-wave-2-races-into-action-next-month |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221010045807/https://www.gameinformer.com/2022/07/28/mario-kart-8-deluxe-booster-course-pass-wave-2-races-into-action-next-month |archive-date=October 10, 2022 |access-date=October 7, 2022 |publisher=[[GameStop]] |language=en |magazine=[[Game Informer]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-01 |title=Mario Kart 8 Deluxe 'Booster Course Pass' Wave 6 launches November 9 |url=https://www.gematsu.com/2023/11/mario-kart-8-deluxe-booster-course-pass-wave-6-launches-november-9 |access-date=2023-11-01 |website=Gematsu |language=en-US |archive-date=2024-08-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240816154718/https://www.gematsu.com/2023/11/mario-kart-8-deluxe-booster-course-pass-wave-6-launches-november-9 |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Sequels===
{{See also|Mario Kart|l1=''Mario Kart''}}
Several sequels to ''Super Mario Kart'' have been released for successive generations of Nintendo consoles, each receiving commercial success and critical acclaim.<ref name="sutra crit">{{cite web|last=Cowan|first=Danny|title=Critical Reception: Nintendo's Mario Kart Wii|website=[[Gamasutra]]|date=2008-05-07|url=http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=18524|access-date=2022-05-03|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090528103517/http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=18524|archive-date=2009-05-28|url-status=dead}}</ref> While some elements have developed throughout the series, the core experience from ''Super Mario Kart'' has remained intact.<ref name="1UP retronaut">{{cite web|last=Parish|first=Jeremy|author2=Bob Mackey|date=2008-04-10|title=Retronauts Crashes Into Mario Kart|url=http://www.1up.com/news/retronauts-crashes-mario-kart|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110523081901/http://www.1up.com/news/retronauts-crashes-mario-kart|archive-date=2011-05-23|access-date=2008-12-28|website=[[1UP.com]]}}</ref> The first sequel, ''[[Mario Kart 64]]'', was released in 1996 for the [[Nintendo 64]] and was the first ''Mario Kart'' game to feature fully 3D graphics.<ref name="GS MK64">{{cite web|last=Ward|first=Trent C.|title=Mario Kart 64 Review|website=[[GameSpot]]|date=1997-02-06|url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/mario-kart-64-review/1900-2544773/|access-date=2022-05-03|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120625111905/http://www.gamespot.com/mario-kart-64/reviews/mario-kart-64-review-2544773/|archive-date=2012-06-25|url-status=live}}</ref> Although reviewers including ''IGN'' and ''GameSpot'' felt that the single-player gameplay was lacking compared to its predecessor, the simultaneous four-person multiplayer modes – a first for the Nintendo 64 – were praised.<ref name="gengap" /><ref name="GS MK64" /> The second sequel, ''[[Mario Kart: Super Circuit]]'', was released for the [[Game Boy Advance]] in 2001. It was described by ''GameSpot'' as more of a remake of ''Super Mario Kart'' than a sequel to ''Mario Kart 64'' and featured a return to the graphical style of the original.<ref name="GS sc" /><ref name="gspy sc" /> As well as featuring new tracks, players are able to unlock the original SNES tracks if certain achievements are completed.<ref name="GS sc" /> ''[[Mario Kart: Double Dash]]'' was released for the [[GameCube]] in 2003. Unlike any other ''Mario Kart'' game before or since, it features two riders in each kart, allowing for a new form of [[Cooperative video game|cooperative multiplayer]] where one player controls the kart's movement and the other fires weapons.<ref name="dd rev">{{cite web|last=Davis|first=Ryan|title=Mario Kart: Double Dash!! (GameCube)|website=[[CNET]]|date=2003-11-13|url=http://www.cnet.com/products/mario-kart-double-dash-gamecube/|access-date=2022-05-03|url-status=dead|archive-date=2020-11-29|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201129143622/https://www.cnet.com/products/mario-kart-double-dash-gamecube/}}</ref> ''[[Mario Kart DS]]'', released for the [[Nintendo DS]] in 2005, was the first ''Mario Kart'' game to include online play via the [[Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection]].<ref name="gengap"/> It went on to become the best selling [[Handheld game console|handheld]] racing game of all time, selling 7.83 million units.<ref name="Guiness">{{cite web|title=NINTENDO RECORDS |publisher=[[Guinness World Records]] Limited |url=http://gamers.guinnessworldrecords.com/records/nintendo.aspx |access-date=2008-12-31 |url-status=bot: unknown |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081231021848/http://gamers.guinnessworldrecords.com/records/nintendo.aspx |archive-date=2008-12-31 }}</ref> The game marks the debut of tracks appearing in previous games. ''[[Mario Kart Wii]]'' was released for the [[Wii]] in 2008 and incorporates motion controls and 12-player racing. Like ''Mario Kart DS'', it includes online play; it allows racers to play as user-created [[Mii]]s (after unlocking the Mii character)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamewinners.com/Cheats/index.php/More:Mario_Kart_Wii:_Unlockables|title=Mario Kart Wii: Unlockables|access-date=2009-03-01|publisher=Gamewinners.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081006050409/http://www.gamewinners.com/Cheats/index.php/More:Mario_Kart_Wii:_Unlockables|archive-date=2008-10-06|url-status=live}}</ref> as well as ''Mario'' series characters and comes packaged with the [[Wii Wheel]] peripheral, which can act as the game's primary control mechanism when coupled with a [[Wii Remote]].<ref name="CVG retro"/><ref name="IGN MKWii">{{cite web|last=Bozon|title=Mario Kart Wii Review|website=IGN|date=2008-04-20|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2008/04/20/mario-kart-wii-review|access-date=2022-05-03|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080423063615/http://wii.ign.com/articles/868/868012p1.html|archive-date=2008-04-23}}</ref> ''Mario Kart Wii'' went on to be the worldwide best-selling game of 2008.<ref name="mkw sales">{{cite web|last=Magrino|first=Tom|title=Mario Kart Wii sells 8.94M in 2008|website=[[GameSpot]]|date=2009-02-02|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/mario-kart-wii-sells-894m-in-2008/1100-6203988/|access-date=2020-07-15|archive-date=2020-07-15|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200715212115/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/mario-kart-wii-sells-894m-in-2008/1100-6203988/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="GTA IV">{{cite web|last=Lang|first=Derr J.|title=MADD attacks 'Grand Theft Auto IV'|publisher=[[NBC News]]|date=2008-05-01|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna24405072|access-date=2022-05-03|archive-date=2022-10-11|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221011164811/https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna24405072|url-status=dead}}</ref> ''[[Mario Kart 7]]'' for the [[Nintendo 3DS]] was released in 2011, which features racing on land, sea, and air. ''Mario Kart 7'' added the ability to customize the kart and to race in [[First-person (video games)|first-person]] mode. Three ''Mario Kart'' arcade games have been released, ''[[Mario Kart Arcade GP]]'' in 2005, ''[[Mario Kart Arcade GP 2]]'' in 2007, and ''[[Mario Kart Arcade GP DX]]'' in 2013. All of them were developed jointly by Nintendo and [[Namco]] and feature Namco characters including [[Pac-Man (character)|Pac-Man]] and Blinky.<ref name="IGN GP">{{cite web|last=Casamassina|first=Matt|title=Mario Kart GP Comes Stateside|website=IGN|date=2005-09-26|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2005/09/26/mario-kart-gp-comes-stateside|access-date=2022-05-03|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080821215319/http://cube.ign.com/articles/653/653827p1.html|archive-date=2008-08-21|url-status=dead}}</ref> The most recent entry in the series is ''[[Mario Kart 8]]'' for the [[Wii U]], which was released at the end of May 2014, which brings back gliders and propellers from ''Mario Kart 7'' as well as 12-player racing in ''Mario Kart Wii''. ''Mario Kart 8'' includes a new feature called Mario Kart TV, where players can watch highlights of previous races and uploading them to [[YouTube]]. Another new feature is [[anti-gravity]] racing, where players can race on walls and ceilings. An enhanced port, ''[[Mario Kart 8#Mario Kart 8 Deluxe|Mario Kart 8 Deluxe]]'', was released on the [[Nintendo Switch]] on April 28, 2017. The game keeps most elements from the Wii U version, while adding more characters, kart parts, battle modes, and battle stages. The port received universal critical acclaim, and has sold over 61 million copies as of March 2024, becoming the best selling game for the console. Furthermore, the number of copies sold exceeded that of ''[[Super Mario Bros.]]'', released on the [[Nintendo Entertainment System]], making it the first ''Mario'' title to outsell a previous instalment.

As the series has progressed, many aspects included in ''Super Mario Kart'' have been developed and altered. The power-up boxes which are flat against the track in ''Super Mario Kart'' due to the technical limitations of the SNES became floating boxes in later games.<ref name="CVG forgot"/> The roster of racers has expanded in recent games to include a greater selection of Nintendo characters including some which had not been created at the time of ''Super Mario Kart''{{'}}s release – such as [[List of Mario franchise characters#Petey Piranha|Petey Piranha]] from ''[[Super Mario Sunshine]]'' who appeared in ''Mario Kart: Double Dash!!''. Multiplayer has remained a key feature of the series and has expanded from the two-player modes available in ''Super Mario Kart'': first to allow up to four simultaneous players in split-screen in ''Mario Kart 64''; then leveraging the [[Nintendo GameCube Broadband Adapter and Modem Adapter|GameCube's LAN Adapter]] for up to sixteen players<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mariokart.com/doubledash/launch/parentsinfo.html|title=Parents' Info|publisher=Mario Kart: Double Dash!!'s official website|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160314075346/http://mariokart.com/doubledash/launch/parentsinfo.html|archive-date=March 14, 2016|url-status=dead|access-date=January 9, 2009}}</ref> in ''Mario Kart Double Dash!!''; and eventually supporting up to twelve simultaneous online players in ''Mario Kart Wii''.<ref name="GS MK64"/><ref name="IGN MKWii"/> Many of the track themes have been retained throughout the series, including [[Rainbow Road (Mario Kart)|Rainbow Road]] – the final track of the Special Cup – which has appeared in every ''Mario Kart'' console game.<ref name="GS then & now" /><ref name="5tracks"/> Other features present in ''Super Mario Kart'' have disappeared from the series. These include the "superpowers" of the computer characters, the feather power-up which allows players to jump high into the air and having a restricted number of lives.<ref name="CVG forgot"/> The only other ''Mario Kart'' games to feature the coin collecting of the original are ''Mario Kart: Super Circuit'', ''Mario Kart 7'', and ''Mario Kart 8''.{{cn|date=November 2023}}<!-- cite needed for MK7 --> The aspects of style and gameplay from ''Super Mario Kart'' that have been retained throughout the series have led Nintendo to face criticism for a lack of originality but the franchise is still considered to be a beloved household name by many, known for its familiar core gameplay.<ref name="IGN 100-07"/><ref name="1UP retronaut"/><ref name="CVG retro"/><ref name="dd rev"/>

==Notes==
{{Notelist}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
{{commonscat}}
*{{official|https://www.nintendo.co.jp/n02/shvc/mk/index.html}} {{in lang|ja}}
*{{MobyGames|id=/super-mario-kart}}
{{Mario racing games}}
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[[Category:1992 video games]]
[[Category:Mario Kart]]
[[Category:Mario racing games]]
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[[Category:Nintendo Entertainment Analysis & Development games]]
[[Category:Nintendo Classics games]]
[[Category:Split-screen multiplayer games]]
[[Category:Super Nintendo Entertainment System games]]
[[Category:Video games developed in Japan]]
[[Category:Video games produced by Shigeru Miyamoto]]
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[[Category:World Video Game Hall of Fame]]