Does Android Have Mario Kart? The Complete Guide to Mario Kart Tour
Yes! Android has Mario Kart Tour, Nintendo's official mobile version of Mario Kart. Released in September 2019, it's a free-to-play game with in-app purchases available on the Google Play Store.
Mario Kart Tour on Android: Key Features
- Free to download: Available on the Google Play Store at no initial cost
- Touchscreen controls: Simplified driving with automatic acceleration
- Portrait mode: Designed for one-handed vertical play
- Regular updates: New courses, characters, and events every two weeks
- Multiplayer: Real-time races against players worldwide
- Gacha system: Collect drivers, karts, and gliders through pipes
How It Compares to Console Mario Kart Games
| Feature | Mario Kart Tour (Android) | Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (Switch) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free (with in-app purchases) | $59.99 (one-time) |
| Controls | Touchscreen (auto-accelerate) | Full controller support |
| Courses | Rotating selection (20+ at a time) | 48 permanent courses (+DLC) |
| Multiplayer | Online only (real-time) | Local & online (up to 8 players) |
| Content Unlock | Gacha system for characters/items | All content available through gameplay |
Android Requirements for Mario Kart Tour
To run Mario Kart Tour smoothly, your Android device needs:
- OS: Android 6.0 or later
- RAM: 2GB minimum (3GB recommended)
- Storage: 1.5GB free space
- Internet: Persistent connection required
- Not compatible with: Some low-end devices and Chromebooks
Getting Mario Kart Tour on Android
- Open the Google Play Store on your Android device
- Search for "Mario Kart Tour"
- Select the official app by Nintendo Co., Ltd.
- Tap "Install" (requires ~150MB initial download)
- Open the app and download additional game data (~1.2GB)
- Create or link a Nintendo Account for cloud saves
FAQ About Mario Kart on Android
Is Mario Kart Tour the same as the Switch version?
No. While it features similar racing mechanics, Mario Kart Tour is a simplified mobile version with different controls, rotating courses, and a gacha system for characters/items.
Can I play Mario Kart Tour offline?
No. Mario Kart Tour requires an internet connection at all times, even for single-player races.
Is Mario Kart 8 Deluxe available on Android?
No. The full console version of Mario Kart 8 is exclusive to Nintendo Switch and not available on mobile devices.
How much does Mario Kart Tour cost?
The base game is free, but it offers in-app purchases ($0.99-$99.99) and a $4.99/month Gold Pass subscription for bonus rewards.
Tips for Playing Mario Kart Tour on Android
- Use manual drift: Enable in settings for better control
- Save rubies: Don't spend them all on single pulls
- Check tour gifts: Free rewards every two weeks
- Join a team: Team Rally events offer bonus rewards
- Adjust sensitivity: Find your ideal control setting
Conclusion
Android users can indeed enjoy Mario Kart through Mario Kart Tour, Nintendo's official mobile adaptation. While it differs from the console experience with its portrait controls, rotating courses, and gacha elements, it delivers authentic Mario Kart fun optimized for mobile play.
The game is completely free to download and play, though competitive players may want to invest in the Gold Pass subscription for bonus rewards. For the full Mario Kart experience, you'll still need a Nintendo Switch, but Mario Kart Tour provides a surprisingly deep mobile alternative that's perfect for quick races on the go.