Kart racing games are all about speed, fun, and over-the-top action. With colorful tracks, quirky characters, and wild power-ups, they turn every lap on the track into an unpredictable adventure. These games are perfect for players of all ages, offering easy-to-learn controls and plenty of room for skillful maneuvers.
Whether you’re drifting around tight corners, launching rockets at your rivals, or discovering shortcuts, kart racers bring excitement and laughter to every match. Plus, with multiplayer modes, they’re a great way to challenge friends and family for endless competitive fun.
Even though many entries of the same series deserve to be on this list, such as Mario Kart: Double Dash!! (2003), we’re keeping it to one game per franchise.
16. Toy Story Racer
| Initial Release Date | March 2, 2001 |
| Developer | Traveller’s Tales / Tiertax Design Studios |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 1 – Game Boy Color |
Toy Story Racer brings the familiar characters from Pixar’s Toy Story films to life in an exciting, fast-paced racing experience. While it might not have reached the same level of fame as Mario Kart, it stands out as a charming and well-crafted entry that captures the magic of the movies.
The tracks are set in familiar locations from the Toy Story universe, including Andy’s Room, Pizza Planet, and Sid’s twisted backyard. The environments are packed with oversized objects, creating a playful, toy-sized perspective that immerses players in the world of the films. Track designs incorporate dynamic elements like moving toys, obstacles, and shortcuts, adding layers of excitement and unpredictability to each race.
The game features power-ups that tie into the Toy Story universe, such as bouncing balls, rockets, and toy boxing gloves. These items allow players to attack opponents, boost their speed, or create obstacles on the track. The balance of power-ups keeps races competitive, and their playful design adds to the whimsical feel of the game.
Players can unlock new characters, tracks, and modes by completing challenges and winning races. The game’s progression system encourages exploration and mastery, rewarding persistence with fresh content.
15. Looney Tunes Racing
| Initial Release Date | November 28, 2000 |
| Developer | Circus Freak Studios / Xantera |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 1 – Game Boy Color |
Looney Tunes Racing brings together the beloved characters of the Looney Tunes franchise in a colorful, fast-paced, and family-friendly racing experience. It offers all the standard game modes found across most kart racers.
Players can choose from a roster of Looney Tunes characters, including favorites such as Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Taz, and Wile E. Coyote. Each character has their own unique vehicle and special abilities, which adds an extra layer of strategy to the races.
The game features a variety of whimsical tracks based on locations from the Looney Tunes cartoons. These tracks include vibrant, cartoonish settings like deserts, forests, and cityscapes, each filled with hazards and shortcuts. Tracks are designed with fun and interactive elements, like giant anvils falling from the sky or roads that change direction, keeping players on their toes.
As with other kart racing games, Looney Tunes Racing includes power-ups that players can collect and use to gain an advantage. These power-ups include rockets, oil slicks, speed boosts, and more, reminiscent of classic kart racers. But also, each character has a unique special ability. For example, Bugs Bunny can deploy a “spring-loaded box” to block opponents, while Daffy Duck can use his “duck parachute” to glide over obstacles.
14. Wacky Wheels
| Initial Release Date | October 17, 1994 |
| Developer | Beavis Soft |
| Platform(s) | – PC – Mac – Linux |
Wacky Wheels is a quirky and fun kart racing game that has become a cult classic among fans of the genre. It was one of the first kart racers to rival the success of Super Mario Kart, offering a similar fun-filled racing experience with a distinct sense of humor and charm, and was ahead of its time in many ways.
Players can choose from a colorful cast of characters, including animals like dogs, cats, and pigs, each with their own distinct kart. These characters are quirky, with each one adding personality to the gameplay, and more unlock as you progress.
The game features a variety of tracks, from jungles to snowy mountains, to more abstract and wacky settings, making the environments both imaginative and visually engaging. Tracks are filled with obstacles, jumps, and hazards that keep races unpredictable and fun. Furthermore, there are a variety of power-ups that players can collect during races. These include speed boosts, oil slicks, bombs, and other amusing weapons to hinder opponents.
The soundtrack of Wacky Wheels complements its cartoonish atmosphere, with upbeat and lively music that enhances the overall fun of the game.
In conclusion, Wacky Wheels focuses on fast-paced, arcade-style racing that emphasizes fun over realism. The controls are easy to pick up, and the races are often chaotic and filled with surprises, keeping players engaged and entertained. There’s Time Trial,
13. Mortal Kombat Armageddon
| Initial Release Date | October 9, 2006 |
| Developer | Midway Games |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 2 – Xbox – Wii |
Mortal Kombat Armageddon has a beloved minigame featuring kart racing. This surprising inclusion gave players a lighthearted, fun diversion from the brutal, violent combat the Mortal Kombat series is famous for. Though not a standalone kart racing game, it became a memorable part of Armageddon for fans who were eager for something different and refreshing from the franchise.
The kart racing mode features a range of iconic Mortal Kombat characters such as Scorpion, Sub-Zero, Raiden, and Sonya Blade, as well as a few hidden characters from the MK universe. Each character comes with their own unique kart, adding personality to the races, whose tracks are inspired by various iconic locations from the Mortal Kombat universe.
It manages to integrate the combat mechanics of Mortal Kombat into the racing format. Players can use power-ups and special attacks like fireballs, ice blasts, and even teleportation to slow down or sabotage their opponents. This combat-focused approach sets the game apart from other kart racers by combining both racing and fighting.
In addition to character choices, players can customize their karts by collecting parts and upgrades during races. These upgrades can enhance speed, handling, and durability, adding a layer of strategic depth to the gameplay. This mode supports up to two players in local multiplayer, making it a fun, competitive experience for friends and family. Players can race against each other, using the same set of power-ups to gain an edge and prevent their opponents from winning
12. Speed Freaks
| Initial Release Date | August 27, 1999 |
| Developer | Funcom |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 1 |
Speed Freaks, also known as Speed Punks in North America, combines vibrant visuals, engaging gameplay, and a touch of humor that make it a contender for the best kart racer on the PS1. Rather than be inspired by anything that exists, it offers its own style of characters and tracks, garnering a cult following over the years.
Players can choose from nine unique characters, each with distinct karts offering varying attributes in speed, acceleration, and handling. Six characters are available from the start, with three additional characters unlockable through in-game achievements.
The game has a variety of modes including Tournament, Single Race, Time Attack, Versus, and Multiplayer. Players can navigate imaginative tracks filled with dynamic elements and interactive environments. Collectible power-ups, such as missiles, slime, and speed boosts, add strategic layers to races.
The combination of diverse power-ups, strategic track designs, and varying difficulty levels ensures that both newcomers and seasoned players can find enjoyment and challenge.
11. Star Wars: Super Bombad Racing
| Initial Release Date | April 25, 2001 |
| Developer | Lucas Learning |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 2 |
Star Wars: Super Bombad Racing offers a unique take on the kart racing genre by combining iconic Star Wars characters with whimsical, super-deformed designs and cheesy voice acting. It stands out for its lighthearted approach and imaginative gameplay.
Players can choose from a roster of characters primarily from Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace, including Anakin Skywalker, Jar Jar Binks, and Sebulba, all sitting in karts with big heads. There are also unlockable characters like Boba Fett and Darth Vader to add to the excitement.
The game features nine tracks inspired by locations from The Phantom Menace, each with mirrored variants for added replayability. Tracks are designed with vibrant, exaggerated visuals to match the game’s playful tone. Beyond traditional races, the Arena mode offers vehicular combat scenarios where players use power-ups to eliminate opponents, adding a strategic combat element to the gameplay.
This is still to this day the definitive Star Wars kart racing game.
10. Disney Speedstorm
| Initial Release Date | September 28, 2023 |
| Developer | Gameloft Barcelona |
| Platform(s) | – PC – Xbox Series X|S – PlayStation 5 – Xbox One – PlayStation 4 – Nintendo Switch – iOS – Android |
Disney Speedstorm is a free-to-play kart racing game that brings together iconic characters from Disney and Pixar franchises, offering players a chance to race through tracks inspired by beloved films.
Players can choose from a variety of Disney and Pixar characters, each equipped with unique abilities and vehicles. The initial lineup includes favorites like Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, and characters from Monsters, Inc., Pirates of the Caribbean, and more. New characters, tracks, and challenges are introduced with each season. Players can participate in limited-time events to unlock exclusive content, encouraging regular engagement.
Racers are categorized into different classes, such as Speedster, Brawler, Trickster, and Defender, each with distinct playstyles. Characters have special abilities that can be activated during races, adding strategic depth to the gameplay.
Disney Speedstorm supports both local and online multiplayer modes, allowing players to compete against friends or other racers worldwide. The game also features ranked multiplayer modes, providing a competitive environment for those seeking a challenge.
While Disney Speedstorm offers an engaging racing experience enriched by beloved characters and imaginative tracks, its monetization practices have been a point of contention among players. Still, if you’re looking for the definitive Disney kart racing game, this is the one for you.
9. Chocobo GP
| Initial Release Date | May 19, 2023 |
| Developer | Visual Concepts |
| Platform(s) | – PC – Xbox Series X|S – PlayStation 5 – Xbox One – PlayStation 4 – Nintendo Switch |
Chocobo GP is the sequel to the 1999 title Chocobo Racing, commemorating the 35th anniversary of the Final Fantasy series by bringing together beloved characters and locales in a high-speed racing format.
The inclusion of the magicite system and character-specific abilities introduces strategic considerations beyond standard racing tactics, encouraging players to think critically about resource management and timing. The game’s tracks, inspired by iconic Final Fantasy locations, provide diverse environments and challenges, enhancing replayability and nostalgia for long-time fans.
8. Dreamworks All-Star Kart Racing
| Initial Release Date | November 3, 2023 |
| Developer | Bamtang Games |
| Platform(s) | – PC – Xbox Series X|S – PlayStation 5 – Xbox One – PlayStation 4 – Nintendo Switch |
DreamWorks All-Star Kart Racing brings together iconic characters from various DreamWorks Animation franchises, offering players a chance to race through tracks inspired by beloved films.
The game features 20 playable characters from series such as Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda, How to Train Your Dragon, Megamind, Trolls, The Boss Baby, and The Bad Guys. Each character comes with unique vehicles and abilities, allowing players to choose their favorite personalities from the DreamWorks universe.
In addition, there are 20 different tracks inspired by various DreamWorks films, with each designed to capture the essence of its respective movie.
Characters from the Trolls franchise serve as hosts for each race, introducing unique gimmicks such as extra-musical notes and specific hazards. Collecting enough musical notes during a race allows these Trolls to hop onto the karts, offering special items known as “Troll Surprises,” adding a strategic layer to the gameplay.
With both single-player and multiplayer options, players engage in quick races, championships, time trials, and more for a range of challenges and replayability.
Still, the game has issues with the power-ups, attacks, and the absence of several popular DreamWorks characters.
7. LEGO 2K Drive
| Initial Release Date | May 19, 2023 |
| Developer | Visual Concepts |
| Platform(s) | – PC – Xbox Series X|S – PlayStation 5 – Xbox One – PlayStation 4 – Nintendo Switch |
Lego 2K Drive is the ultimate love-letter to fans as it successfully combines high-speed racing with the creative freedom of Lego building.
Set in the expansive world of Bricklandia, players can freely explore diverse regions in an engaging open-world, each filled with unique challenges, mini-games, and races. The open-world design encourages exploration and discovery. Vehicles in Lego 2K Drive can dynamically transform based on terrain. For example, a land-based vehicle automatically converts into a boat when entering water, ensuring seamless transitions and maintaining racing momentum.
The ability to build and customize vehicles from scratch offers a level of personalization rarely seen in racing games, allowing players to express their creativity. The game offers the freedom to design and build personal vehicles using over 1,000 unique Lego pieces. For those preferring ready-made options, vehicles from Lego City and Lego Creator sets are also available.
True to Lego’s interactive nature, the game features environments that can be broken apart, adding a layer of strategy and excitement to races.
6. ModNation Racers
| Initial Release Date | May 19, 2010 |
| Developer | United Front Games / San Diego Studio |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 3 – PlayStation Portable |
ModNation Racers carves out its own lane in the kart racing genre by blending fast-paced, arcade-style racing with an unprecedented level of customization. This title is about creating your own racing universe. With its “Play, Create, Share” philosophy, ModNation Racers stands out as one of the most innovative and community-driven kart racers ever made.
This game includes a story mode with quirky characters and humorous cutscenes, introducing players to the game’s mechanics while providing a series of increasingly challenging races.
The extensive customization extends to characters, karts, and tracks. Players can design their own racers with a huge range of body types, outfits, decals, and accessories. From wheels and spoilers to body shapes and paint jobs, karts can be tailored for style and performance. Finally, the track editor lets players build, test, and share custom tracks with ease. You could sculpt terrain, place obstacles, add boost pads, and even control weather effects.
Core racing features tight controls, drifting, and weapon-based combat, with a unique twist. Drifting, drafting, and performing air tricks fill a boost meter which can be spent on speed boosts or shields to block incoming attacks, adding an extra layer of strategy.
Players can race against friends locally or online, with support for up to 12 players in competitive online matches. The community aspect thrived, with endless user-generated content to explore. Thanks to the game’s online hub, players can browse, download, and rate custom characters, karts, and tracks. This feature turns ModNation Racers into a living, evolving platform where creativity flourishes.
5. Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed
| Initial Release Date | November 16, 2012 |
| Developer | Sumo Digital |
| Platform(s) | – PC – Xbox 360 – PlayStation 3 – Wii U – Nintendo 3DS – PlayStation Vita – iOS – Android |
Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed takes the kart racing formula and elevates it with dynamic tracks, transforming vehicles, and a celebration of Sega’s iconic history. This game isn’t just another entry in the kart racing genre — it was a bold evolution that still stands as one of the most innovative and polished racers ever made.
In addition to the transforming tracks, the game’s standout feature is its vehicles that seamlessly transition into cars, boats, or planes mid-race, adapting to the changing track layouts.
The transforming tracks aren’t just gimmicks; they are wondrously designed, with each section feeling thoughtfully crafted to suit the vehicle type. Racing through a collapsing temple or flying through an arcade sky feels epic and constantly fresh. They are living, evolving environments inspired by Sega franchises like Super Monkey Ball, Panzer Dragoon, and After Burner. As races progress, courses will shift, open up new routes, or collapse, forcing players to adapt on the fly.
Unlike many kart racers, Transformed has a rich single-player experience with a World Tour mode that includes challenges like time trials, drift challenges, and rival races. While the game has power-ups, it leans more on player skill than random item luck. The weapons are balanced, and mastering drift boosts, stunt tricks, and transformation timing gives skilled players a real edge.
4. Jak X: Combat Racing
| Initial Release Date | October 18, 2005 |
| Developer | Naughty Dog |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 2 |
Jak X: Combat Racing takes the beloved characters and gritty world of the Jak and Daxter series and hurls them into a no-holds-barred vehicular combat spectacle that beats all competitors. This game combined fast-paced racing with explosive combat, delivering an adrenaline-fueled experience that still stands as one of the most unique and thrilling entries in the kart racing genre.
Unlike traditional kart racers, Jak X: Combat Racing isn’t just about crossing the finish line — it is about surviving. Players can pick up an arsenal of weapons, like machine guns, missiles, and mines, to attack opponents while tearing through the tracks. In addition, the cars can be upgraded and modified via tweaks to stats like speed, armor, and handling, as well as cosmetic changes to personalize the ride.
- Read more: Jak X: Combat Racing Guides
This game boasts a full-fledged story mode with cinematic cutscenes, voice acting, and an engaging plot that ties into the Jak and Daxter universe. There are a diverse number of game modes, including Circuit Races, Deathmatch, Rush Hour, and Capture the Power Cell. Power-ups are divided into yellow (offensive), red (defensive), blue (boost), and green (repair) eco pickups which adds strategic depth, as players have to decide whether to go on the offensive or play it safe.
Finally, the game supports split-screen multiplayer and, at launch, even offered online play which was groundbreaking for its time, letting players battle friends or strangers in chaotic, explosive matches.
3. Diddy Kong Racing
| Initial Release Date | November 21, 1997 |
| Developer | Rare |
| Platform(s) | – Nintendo 64 |
Diddy Kong Racing introduced a unique blend of high-speed racing, adventure elements, and an unforgettable cast of characters, setting it apart from other kart racers of its era. It also successfully showcased the technical prowess of the Nintendo 64.
In addition to being incredibly fun to play even to this day, Diddy Kong Racing is responsible for so many innovations in the genre. One of the most significant is the open-world Adventure Mode where players complete challenges, collect balloons, and face off against bosses. This campaign-style progression was unique for a racing game and made the experience feel more immersive.
- Read more: Diddy Kong Racing Guides
Furthermore, this kart racer offers three different vehicle types, including karts for tight turns and balanced racings, hovercrafts to traverse the water, and planes with full 3D movement that add a new layer of strategy and challenge. From tropical islands to snowy mountains and futuristic raceways, Diddy Kong Racing has a diverse set of tracks, each tailored for the different vehicle types.
Unlike traditional random item boxes, the game uses a structured power-up system where collecting multiple balloons of the same color upgraded weapons and abilities. This adds a layer of strategy, allowing skilled players to plan their attacks rather than relying on luck.
Finally, the game features a strong multiplayer mode, including battle challenges, and an engaging time trial system for racing enthusiasts looking to perfect their skills.
2. Crash Team Racing
| Initial Release Date | October 19, 1999 |
| Developer | Naughty Dog |
| Platform(s) | – PlayStation 1 |
One of the greatest kart racers ever made, Crash Team Racing (CTR) is the definitive party game for the PS1. With a complete story mode that involves the likes of Crash, Cortex, and the other ragtag team of characters facing off against the evil Nitros Oxide who desires to turn Earth into a concrete parking lot, players can choose from up to fifteen racers spanning across the Bandicoot franchise. During the races, offensive and speed-boosting power-ups can be used to gain an advantage.
- Read more: Crash Team Racing Guides
Its deep drifting and jump-to-boost mechanics set it apart from other kart racers, even to this day, offering a rewarding experience for casual and competitive players alike. With fun tracks, memorable characters, and local and multiplayer modes, Crash Team Racing remains a fan favorite.
A modern remaster, Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled, was released for modern systems featuring updated graphics and enhanced gameplay features.
1. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
| Initial Release Date | April 18, 2017 |
| Developer | Nintendo |
| Platform(s) | – Nintendo Switch |
Not only does it not get better than Mario Kart, it truly doesn’t get better than Mario Kart 8. The title, originally released for the Wii U back in 2014 on a console that did not get the attention it deserved, got remastered for the Nintendo Switch as a launch title called Mario Kart 8 Deluxe in 2017.
- Read more: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Guides
In addition to the classic split-screen support and wireless play, the best part of the entire experience is the online multiplayer, with the capacity to race against as many as 12 players simultaneously. Furthermore, Nintendo greatly expanded the experience with a Booster Course Pass that adds up to 48 new tracks.
From the controls to the perfect drifting to a variety of vehicles meant to cover all types of terrain to dazzling jumping mechanics to incredible power-ups that feel fair to the outstanding cast of characters to choose from and unlock, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a masterclass in kart racing game design.