Mario Kart Tour is the newest entry in Nintendo’s popular kart racer franchise. It manages to effectively capture the gameplay we are all familiar with, while streamlining it enough that anyone can pick up and play. I’m Anthony, and in this review, we are going to be taking a look at Nintendo's latest mobile offering. Let's dive in!
Gameplay & Controls
Nintendo's design philosophy for mobile seems to prioritize accessibility. The game is played in portrait mode, requiring only one finger to control. Karts move automatically, leaving the player to steer and manage items. This style is reminiscent of Mario Kart 7, featuring transformations like gliders and propellers.
Drifting and tricks return as the primary way to gain speed boosts and increase your score. Smart steering prevents you from falling off edges, though disabling it allows for shortcut access via off-road paths. The automatic acceleration eliminates reverse driving, simplifying the experience significantly. While gyro controls are available, they require a steady hand and may not be the optimal choice for precision driving.
The learning curve for the touch controls is noticeable. It took some time to adjust, but eventually, it became second nature. Races are shortened to two laps, a smart change for mobile that encourages quick, 'pick up and play' sessions. It is worth noting that you are not racing against players in real-time; instead, you compete against AI or ghost data, allowing you to pause and resume races without penalty.
Items & Progression
Items work similarly to traditional entries, but with a twist. Characters have 'favored courses' where they receive more item slots—up to three. If you roll three of the same item, you enter a 'Frenzy' mode, granting invincibility and unlimited use of that item for a short time. This mechanic adds a chaotic and exciting element to races.
Progression is driven by Grand Stars, experience points, and coins. Grand Stars unlock new cups and gifts, while XP levels up your drivers, karts, and gliders, improving their points potential. The game operates on a 'Tour' cycle, refreshing content and courses every two weeks. The debut tour features New York functionality, with real-world inspired tracks like New York Minute alongside classic retro courses.
Monetization
Rubies serve as the premium currency, used to fire the 'Pipe'—a gacha mechanic to unlock characters and karts. Rarity tiers range from Common (Baby characters, Koopa Troopa) to High-End (Metal Mario, Dry Bowser). While gacha is standard for mobile, Nintendo's implementation is polished, though duplicate pulls importantly contribute to leveling up your existing roster.
A contentious point is the Gold Pass subscription, which locks 200cc speed and premium rewards behind a monthly fee. For many, the cost may feel steep compared to a one-time purchase like *Mario Kart 8 Deluxe*.
Graphics & Performance
Visually, Mario Kart Tour is impressive. It retains the vibrant, colorful aesthetic of *Mario Kart 8*, adapted beautifully for mobile screens. The framerate is smooth on capable devices, making it one of the better-looking racers on the market. While the lack of a landscape mode at launch is a missed opportunity for taking in the scenery, portrait mode functions strictly well for one-handed play.
Conclusion
Overall, Mario Kart Tour tries its best to attract new fans to the series while delivering a nostalgic experience for veterans. While it may not reach the heights of its console counterparts due to control limitations and aggressive monetization, it remains a solid celebration of the franchise. It successfully brings the chaos of Mario Kart to your pocket.
