How Much Does Mario Kart World Cost?

Last Updated on April 10, 2025
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Many search “Mario Kart World” expecting a single game or theme park, but it actually refers to several fun Mario Kart experiences across platforms. From mobile apps to console games to real-world theme park rides, Mario Kart takes many forms, each with unique costs.

This guide examines pricing for Mario Kart World Tour, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, the Super Nintendo World ride, and more. We’ll explain game purchases, theme park tickets, subscriptions, and upgrades to help inform your budget. Whether you want to race as Mario on-the-go or battle Bowser in real life, understanding costs is the first step.

How Much Does Mario Kart World Cost?

The total cost for Mario Kart World ranges widely from free to play the mobile app, up to around $150 for a single day visiting a theme park ride. Overall, expect to spend between $0 on the low end for mobile games, and $100-$200 per person to experience a theme park attraction and purchase console games or upgrades.

Mario Kart Tour represents Nintendo’s popular Mario Kart franchise adapted for iOS and Android mobile devices. It retains the classic arcade racing action but reimagined pick-up-and-play controls and courses.

Initial Costs

• Mario Kart Tour is free to download on the App Store and Google Play with no upfront cost to play.

Optional Upgrades and Purchases

• $4.99 Gold Pass – Monthly subscription with faster unlocks and gifts
• $1.99-$69.99 Rubies – Premium currency for purchasing drivers, karts, and gliders.
• $4.99-$24.99 Tours – Timed events with special characters and courses.

Core Gameplay Included

• Tour races on new and retro tracks with Mario characters.
• Multiplayer and leaderboards for competing with others.
• Badge and gift collecting for customization.
• Themed tours and events updated weekly.

The free game provides strong casual gameplay, while optional purchases enhance the experience for invested fans to accelerate progress.

According to IGN, Nintendo has justified this price by highlighting the game’s extensive content and value. The company is also offering a bundle that includes Mario Kart World with a Nintendo Switch 2 for $499.99, which reduces the game’s cost by $30 compared to purchasing it separately. However, this bundle is noted as a limited-time offer.

On Mashable, Nintendo’s Vice President Bill Trinen explained that the pricing strategy focuses on the game’s content and overall experience. He emphasized that the game’s interconnectivity and seamless racing across multiple tracks justify the higher price point. The article also mentions that other Switch 2 games will follow similar pricing, with some titles reaching $80.

The article on Nintendo Life further details the controversy surrounding the game’s price. While Mario Kart World is priced at $80, Nintendo is offering a bundle deal that includes the game and a Switch 2 console for $499.99, effectively discounting the game by $30. However, this bundle is temporary, and its availability may be affected by ongoing tariff issues and pre-order delays in the US.

Lastly, Yahoo Tech reports that Mario Kart World will indeed cost $80 in the US, a significant jump from the traditional $60 price tag of previous Nintendo games. This pricing reflects a broader shift in Nintendo’s strategy, potentially setting a new standard for first-party titles on the Switch 2.

Introduction to Mario Kart World

Mario Kart stands as one of Nintendo’s most beloved and best-selling franchises, ideal for friendly multiplayer competition or solo time trials. But today Mario Kart World expands beyond consoles to immerse you in Mario’s universe through creative attractions.

When searching “Mario Kart World”, most people think of the hit mobile game Mario Kart Tour. But it also encompasses theme park rides, Nintendo Switch titles like Mario Kart 8, and interactive merchandise.

Spanning games, rides, and apps, Mario Kart World transports players into the vibrant Mushroom Kingdom. But each experience carries a unique price tag and optimal value. This guide will help highlight the costs and tips for enjoying Mario Kart magic without wasting coins.

Included in Each Mario Kart World

Every Mario Kart World price point unlocks special features:

Mobile Games – Mario Kart Tour for iOS and Android brings classic racing action to phones and tablets for free, with in-app purchases.

Console Games – Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on Nintendo Switch offers the definitive Mario Kart package for TV gaming.

Theme Park Rides – Multisensory Mario Kart rides at Universal Studios parks immerse you in a real-life race.

Merchandise – Interactive Power-Up Bands let you feel like a character, earning coins and power-ups.

Whether you want to perfect drifts in Tokyo or zoom through Rainbow Road on your phone, costs deliver endless replayability.

You might also like our articles about the cost of Xbox Game Pass, Pokémon Cards, or Minecraft Realms.

Console Mario Kart Pricing Rundown

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe for Nintendo Switch

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe represents the definitive modern Mario Kart package, enhanced for Nintendo Switch with 48 remastered tracks, refined multiplayer, and complete game modes.

Base Game Purchase Price

• $59.99 – Standard retail price for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe either physically or digitally.

Optional Add-Ons

• $24.99 Booster Course Pass – DLC includes 48 additional remastered courses.
• Bundles From $69.99 – Editions with steering wheels or subscriptions included.

Pre-Owned Discounts

• Used Copy Savings – Physical cartridges retain resale value, with used copies around $45.

Core Gameplay

• 36 race tracks and 48 battle arenas with Mario characters and themes.
• Multiplayer for up to 12 players locally or online.
• Grand Prix, VS Race, Battle, and Time Trial modes expanding single player.
• Customizable karts and racers plus unlockable wheels and gliders.

The definitive modern Mario Kart experience is worth full price, with deals on used copies or bundles.

Theme Park Costs and Value Breakdown

Super Nintendo World Attractions

The Mario Kart ride at Universal Studios theme parks immerses you in a real-life race through iconic Mario locations using augmented reality technology and actual karts.

Entry and Ticket Options

• $139 Adults – 1-day Hollywood Park ticket
• $109-$179 Adults – 1-day Orlando Park ticket
• $77 Adults – 1-day Japan Park ticket

Enhancement Add-Ons

• $39.99 Power-Up Bands – Interactive wristband links game to ride.
• Express Passes – Skip line from $20-$149 depending on park.

Core Experience

• 4D ride experience with wind and AR effects.
• Physical kart you steer through Mario world.
• Interactivity with Power-Up Bands.
• Exploration of park lands and themed restaurants.

Visiting the Mario Kart ride itself commands a full-price theme park ticket. Optimize value by bundling a multi-day pass to see all Nintendo lands.

Regional Price Differences

Pricing for physical experiences in Mario Kart World varies by location:

• Japan – Lowest theme park pricing due to exchange rates
• Hollywood – Slightly elevated pricing as the newest location
• Orlando – Peak pricing as the established flagship US park

Meanwhile, games, apps, and subscriptions maintain consistent worldwide pricing. Geographic discounts provide savings.

Hidden Costs and Upgrades

Budget for potential add-ons enhancing Mario Kart World:

• Game DLCs – Additional content like tracks, karts, characters
• Express/VIP Passes – Skip ride lines for $20-$149
• Game Currencies – Coins and rubies accelerating unlocks
• Power-Up Bands – Interactive wristbands linking ride to gameplay

Savvy guests maximize experiences via upgrades while controlling costs. Review all offerings before visiting parks.

Is Mario Kart World Worth it?

Mario Kart World costs can add up, but the joyful nostalgia and interactive fun often justify costs for super fans. Consider:

• Holistic Experience – Games, rides and more create an immersive Mario world
• Family Friendly – Engaging group play and rides for all ages
• Infinite Replayability – Vast content keeps the action fresh

For many, racing through the Mushroom Kingdom in real life fulfills childhood dreams. The memories can be priceless.

Saving Money on Mario Kart World

Use these tips to save on Mario Kart World:

• Buy Mario Kart game bundles with extra controllers for deals
• Look for park ticket bundles, off-peak visit discounts
• Consider used game copies or sharing subscriptions
• Wait for mobile game rubies special offers

With smart shopping, even little tykes can enjoy big Mario Kart adventures on a budget.

Final Words

Whether you want to smash shells on-the-go or ride in a real Mario Kart, costs range from free mobile play up to $150+ immersive park experiences. By weighing each option’s value, features, and replayability, families can race with Mario for years at a fair price. Now start your engines and dive into Mario Kart World!

Answers to Common Questions

How do you know when Mario Kart Live is fully charged?

The LED light on the Mario or Luigi kart will turn green when fully charged. Flashing green means charging is nearly complete. Expect 1.5 hours for a full charge.

Can you play Mario Kart without a subscription?

Yes, you can fully enjoy Mario Kart 8 Deluxe’s single player, local multiplayer, and Grand Prix modes without a Switch Online subscription. Only online multiplayer requires the subscription.

Does Mario Kart Live need batteries?

The Mario Kart Live karts rely solely on an internal rechargeable battery. There are no replaceable batteries. Simply recharge the kart with the included USB cable when the battery runs low.