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Get to Know About Mario Racing Star

Have you tried Mario Racing Star yet? It feels like someone took everything you loved about kart racers and sprinkled in a bit of stardust for good measure. The courses are bright and zany—think ridable Bananas Falls or loop-the-loop Rainbow Dunes—and the whole thing runs at a silky-smooth frame rate that makes drifting around corners downright addictive. Each track is peppered with star-shaped ramps and boost pads that send you flying into the stratosphere, and it’s such a thrill when you nail one right at the finish line.

What really stands out is the Star Meter mechanic. Every time you pull off a trick, nail a jump, or draft behind another racer, you build up star energy. Once you hit max, you trigger Star Rush, which temporarily supercharges your kart and leaves a comet tail in your wake. It’s a fun twist on classic power-ups because it rewards skillful play instead of just grabbing the nearest item box. And those comets aren’t just for show—you can bump into rivals and watch them spin out in style.

You’ll recognize plenty of faces on the character roster—Mario and Luigi, of course, but also a handful of surprise guests like Rosalina’s little Luma, a few Yoshi variants, and even a couple of Koopa Troopas that have leveled up their skills. Each character has a unique stat spread, so picking the perfect match for your racing style actually matters. Plus, there’s a neat livery editor that lets you deck out your karts in custom colors, stripes, and star decals. It’s surprisingly deep for something that feels so pick-up-and-play.

Whether you’re couch co-oping with friends or battling folks online, Mario Racing Star nails that sweet spot between casual fun and competitive edge. The matchmaking is quick, and the community tournaments have already become a weekend staple. Even if you’re not in it to win it, there’s something satisfying about zipping past a pack of racers at full speed, leaving that glittering trail of stars as your signature. It’s a great reminder that sometimes the simplest ideas—racing and collecting stars—make for the most memorable adventures.