Mario Kart has been a staple of couch gaming for decades. Its blend of wacky tracks, whimsical power-ups, and charming characters has made it the go-to game for multiplayer racing.

However, if you’re an Xbox gamer, you’ve probably felt the sting of not having a native Super Mario Kart game to call your own. The good news is that plenty of excellent alternatives bring their unique flavors to the kart racing genre on Xbox.

Why Doesn’t Xbox Have Mario Kart?

Before we reveal our curated game list, you may wonder why Mario Kart—the godfather of kart racing games—isn’t available on Microsoft’s Xbox. The simple answer is exclusivity.

Nintendo developed Mario Kart, and they’ve kept it as an exclusive title for their consoles to drive sales and maintain a unique selling point or what marketing people call a “USP.” As a result, Xbox owners can’t natively enjoy this iconic franchise on their systems. If you look at the absolute juggernaut that Mario Kart 8 (or the feature-rich Mario Kart 8 Deluxe DLC) has become on the Nintendo Switch despite starting as a Wii U game, they clearly made the right decision! This same approach is reflected in all first-party Nintendo Games.

This exclusivity may have been a blessing in disguise because ever since the first Mario Kart released on the SNES, other console platform developers have rushed in to fill the gap with their own Kart clones. That said, not every game in this list is a straight-up Mario Kart clone. Some have been chosen because they scratch the same competitive co-op itch as Mario Kart without feeling like a copy of the famous formula.

Most of the games here will work on Xbox One or newer, but some games may be Xbox Series X or S exclusive, so be sure to check before you buy. You should also check whether a title is on Xbox Game Pass when you read this, so you can try it at no additional cost if you’re a subscriber. Don’t forget that games on Game Pass can be bought permanently at a discount before the game leaves the service. Many of these games are also available on Windows through Steam, and sometimes even PC Game Pass.

1. Team Sonic Racing

Sega’s answer to Mario Kart, Team Sonic Racing, brings the Sonic universe into the kart racing arena. Unlike traditional racers who focus solely on individual achievement, Team Sonic Racing emphasizes teamwork. Players can pass power-ups to teammates and perform other cooperative moves. Beyond its team-oriented gameplay, it also offers a fun single-player mode, allowing you to play at your own pace.

Like Mario Kart, the soundtrack in Team Sonic Racing is pure Sonic magic, revving you up for each race. The courses are visually spectacular, making each race feel like a mini-adventure.

One of the main reasons Team Sonic Racing (or the Xbox 360 Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed) is an excellent alternative to Mario Kart is that they share equally respected casts of famous characters. While not even Mickey Mouse can compete with the Super Mario Bros, Sonic and his friends are nonetheless charming and incredibly popular in their own right.

2. Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled

Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled is not just another kart racing game; it’s a love letter to the original Crash Team Racing from the PlayStation era. It’s a little weird to talk about Crash on Xbox, given that he was effectively the original PlayStation mascot, but Crash is everywhere now, and we’re better off for it.

The controls are tight, and the gameplay is a nice balance of skill and luck. The game offers tracks ranging from simple loops to intricate labyrinths, each filled with shortcuts and secrets to discover.

Its unique story mode sets this game apart from other kart racers. The narrative sees you taking on the villainous Nitros Oxide to save your world, introducing boss battles and other challenges. With great graphics and an array of customization options, this game is a complete package for kart racing enthusiasts.

3. Nickelodeon Kart Racers

Nickelodeon Kart Racers brings all your favorite Nickelodeon characters into the kart racing world. From SpongeBob to Tommy Pickles, the roster is a nostalgia trip for those who grew up with Nickelodeon cartoons. The tracks themselves are also inspired by the various worlds of Nick’s shows, meaning you could be racing through Bikini Bottom one moment and the Fairy World the next.

In addition to the diverse settings and characters, the game is straightforward to pick up but challenging to master. Power-ups are inspired by the cartoons, offering hilarious and effective ways to gain the upper hand. From gooey slime to magical wands, the power-ups add an unpredictable element to each race, making it accessible for kids but still engaging for adults. It’s a great option to play with your kids.

4. Hot Wheels Unleashed

(Image Credit: Mattel)

Hot Wheels Unleashed offers a different approach to kart racing, bringing the iconic toy cars to life in a video game. The cars are customizable, and the game features an expansive selection of vehicles ranging from classic muscle cars to futuristic designs. The tracks are as extravagant as you’d expect from a Hot Wheels game—think loops, jumps, and even a few death-defying stunts.

What truly distinguishes Hot Wheels Unleashed is its level editor. You can build your tracks from the ground up using the elements featured in the premade courses. This adds an element of creativity to the game, extending its lifespan and replay value exponentially. This is the game to go for if you want a racer that lets you exercise your creativity and driving skills.

5. Wreckfest

(Image Credit: THQ Nordic/Bugbear Entertainment)

Wreckfest provides a darker, grittier alternative to the typically cheerful world of kart racing. Don’t let its realistic graphics and physics fool you; this game is about high-octane thrills. Featuring a robust demolition derby mode, Wreckfest encourages you to smash into opponents, with a detailed damage model making every collision feel impactful.

The game also offers more traditional racing modes but with a twist. Tracks are filled with obstacles, and vehicles can sustain real damage, affecting their performance. This dynamic makes each race a battle for survival as much as a speed contest. If you’re looking for a mature, chaotic racing experience, Wreckfest is worth a spin.

For what it’s worth, your author has a mild Wreckfest addiction. He can stop whenever he wants to.

6. Turbo Golf Racing

Imagine combining the precision of golf with the adrenaline of high-speed racing, and you’ve got Turbo Golf Racing. It’s a unique game that requires both driving skills and strategic thinking. Players must race to their golf balls and then tee off, aiming for a hole on the extensive, sprawling course. The first to sink their ball wins.

The courses in Turbo Golf Racing are well-designed, offering various obstacles and hazards familiar to any golfer—sand traps, water hazards, and trees all appear. However, getting to your ball first often involves smashing through barriers or other players, giving the game an aggressive, competitive edge. Turbo Golf Racing is a quirky but captivating take on racing games, and it’s perfect for anyone looking for something out of the ordinary.

Note that this game is still in early access at the time of writing, which means it’s not quite finished yet, but it’s already a blast to play and is pretty cheap to boot.

7. Cars 3: Driven to Win

(Image Credit: Warner Brothers)

While it may seem like a straightforward tie-in to the Cars movie franchise, Cars 3: Driven to Win is a surprisingly robust kart racer. It’s visually charming, capturing the look and feel of the Pixar films perfectly. The game features all your favorite characters from the Cars universe and allows you to race through locations inspired by the movies.

In terms of gameplay, Cars 3: Driven to Win offers a variety of modes, from classic races to unique challenges like “Takedown,” where you have to disable as many opponents as possible. The controls are easy to grasp, making it a great entry point for younger players or those new to the kart racing genre. With its colorful visuals and varied gameplay, it’s a delightful game for fans of the Cars franchise or anyone seeking family-friendly fun.

8. Onrush

(Image Credit: Codemasters)

Onrush is a racing game that defies the traditional rules of the genre. There’s no start or finish line; the game is about team-based objectives. This can range from capturing zones to taking down opponents. It’s a refreshing change of pace from the standard “race to the finish” formula and offers a unique multiplayer experience.

The game also impresses with its visual flair. Environments are detailed, and the sense of speed is palpable, adding to the excitement. Onrush includes various vehicle classes with unique abilities and playstyle, keeping the gameplay fresh and engaging. If you’re looking for a different racing experience, Onrush provides a refreshing and modern take on the genre.

9. LEGO 2K Drive

(Image Credit: 2K/LEGO)

LEGO 2K Drive merges the worlds of LEGO and racing delightfully. The game lets you build your cars out of LEGO blocks, offering countless customization options. Tracks, too, are made of LEGO, bringing a unique aesthetic to each race. The gameplay is straightforward but highly entertaining, offering the signature LEGO humor and charm.

One of the standout features is the game’s cooperative mode, which allows you to team up with friends for a more enjoyable racing experience. Challenges and mini-games are sprinkled throughout the tracks, providing minor diversions that add to the game’s replay value. LEGO 2K Drive is a whimsical and engaging option for LEGO fans and those new to racing games.

10. Disney Speedstorm

(Image Credit Gameloft/Disney)

Disney Speedstorm is the Disney version of a kart racing game. Characters across Disney and Pixar universes unite to race in this vibrant, colorful title. The game features a range of tracks inspired by Disney movies, meaning you could be running through Agrabah one moment and the Pride Lands the next.

The controls are simple, but the game offers depth through its power-ups and character-specific abilities. For Disney fans or families looking for a game to enjoy together, Disney Speedstorm is a magical ride worth taking.

So there, you have ten excellent alternatives to Mario Kart that you can enjoy right on your Xbox. Each game brings something unique, ensuring you’ll always take advantage of fast-paced, power-up-filled racing action.