Mario Kart Buyer’s Guide: Video Games, LEGO Sets and Board Games

The Mario Kart universe has long since expanded beyond our screens. Between the iconic console video game, creative LEGO brick sets, and fast-paced board games, it can be hard to know where to start when choosing the perfect gift. Whether you're looking for a surprise for a child, a teen, or an adult who's a lifelong fan of the franchise, this guide is here to help you clarify your options and make the right choice.

Let's review the specifics of each type of Mario Kart game to help you find the one that's sure to be a hit, based on the recipient's age and interests.

How to Choose the Right Mario Kart Product?

Before diving in headfirst, here are a few key points to guide your decision.

1. Consider Age and Interests

Age is obviously the first criterion. For a young child, a Mario Kart toy for 5-year-olds, like a simple board game, will often be more suitable. The Mario Kart board game offers a tangible, screen-free experience that encourages social interaction. For slightly older kids who love to build, the LEGO Mario Kart range is an excellent option, combining the creativity of assembling a Mario Kart track with the fun of playing. Finally, the must-have Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Switch video game remains a sure thing for players of all ages, provided they own the console, of course.

2. Define the Desired Gameplay Experience

Are you looking for a solo experience, fierce multiplayer competitions, or a purely creative activity?

• For on-screen competition: The Nintendo Switch racing game is unbeatable. It offers solo modes, local multiplayer for up to four players on one screen, and online races against players from around the world.
• For family game nights: A board game like Mario Kart Racing Deluxe brings everyone together around the table for races full of twists and turns, away from screens.
• To build and let your imagination run wild: LEGO sets allow you to build your own track, invent scenarios, and play with interactive figures.

3. Check Compatibility and Prerequisites

Be aware that some products have prerequisites. The Mario Kart 8 Deluxe video game unsurprisingly requires a Nintendo Switch family console. LEGO sets, on the other hand, are standalone, but their potential is greatly expanded when combined with other sets from the LEGO Super Mario range. As for board games, they are generally complete and ready to play right out of the box.

Our Recommended Mario Kart Picks

To help you see things more clearly, here is our selection of three flagship products that perfectly embody the spirit of Mario Kart.

EPOCH Games Mario Kart Racing Deluxe

The Concept

This board game brings all the action of the Mario Kart circuits directly into your living room. It's a racing board game where players, controlling Mario or Luigi, must navigate their way to the finish line while avoiding obstacles. An excellent, screen-free entry point into the Mario Kart universe.

Key Features

• Action-packed board game for 2 or more players.
• Accessible to children from 5 years old.
• Requires no batteries or console.
• Promotes direct interaction between players.

Who is it for? This game is ideal for families with young children looking for a fun Mario Kart gift for a child. It's also a great option for fans who want to share their passion during a game night.

LEGO Super Mario 72043 Mario Kart – Interactive Mario & Standard Kart

The Concept

This LEGO Mario Kart set combines the joy of brick-building with the magic of interactivity. Kids assemble the kart and track elements, then launch the interactive LEGO Mario figure into the race. The figure reacts to different course obstacles with sounds and expressions, making the gameplay experience incredibly lifelike.

Key Features

• Combines construction, creativity, and interactive play.
• Includes an interactive LEGO Mario figure and iconic characters like a Goomba.
• The kart can drift and launch shells.
• Compatible with other sets in the LEGO Super Mario range.

Who is it for? Recommended for children from 7 years old, this set is the perfect choice for young fans who love to build as much as they love to play. It stimulates their imagination by allowing them to create and endlessly reinvent their own Mario Kart track.

Nintendo Mario Kart 8 Deluxe - Switch

The Concept

This is, quite simply, the ultimate version of the Mario Kart video game. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe includes all the characters and tracks from the original game, plus all the downloadable content released since. With its HD graphics and comprehensive game modes, it is the definitive kart racing experience on console.

Key Features

• A massive amount of content with dozens of characters and tracks.
• Varied game modes: solo, local multiplayer, and online.
• Smart Steering feature to help beginners stay on the track.
• Playable in TV mode or handheld mode on the Nintendo Switch.

Who is it for? This game is for all Nintendo Switch owners, regardless of their age or skill level. It's the go-to choice for anyone seeking the classic and competitive Mario Kart game experience.

Looking for Other Options?

Our selection doesn't quite match what you had in mind? Want to explore other characters and tracks? Feel free to browse our full range. You'll find a host of other games, toys, and accessories for all kart racing enthusiasts.

Discover our entire collection of karting games

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the minimum age to play a Mario Kart game? The recommended age depends on the product. The Mario Kart Racing Deluxe board game is accessible from age 5. LEGO Mario Kart sets are generally recommended for ages 7 and up. As for the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe video game, it is rated PEGI 3, but its gameplay is truly enjoyed by children around 6 or 7 years old, especially thanks to the built-in steering aids.

2. Do I need a Nintendo Switch console for all Mario Kart games? No, only the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Switch video game requires a Nintendo Switch console. Physical products like board games or LEGO construction sets are completely standalone and do not require any electronic equipment.

3. Can you play multiplayer with all Mario Kart products? Absolutely, multiplayer is at the heart of the Mario Kart experience. The video game allows up to 4 players locally and 12 online. The board game is designed for 2 or more players. Finally, LEGO sets are perfect for multiplayer role-playing, where each person drives their kart on the tracks you've built.