Common Sense Media Review
By Christopher Healy
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
A few innovations, but mostly the same (really fun) racer.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Play
Videos and Photos
Mario Kart 7
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 7 parent reviews
Based on 35 kid reviews
Kids say the game is fun and easy to pick up, featuring a variety of well-designed tracks and characters, although some have noted frustrations with online play due to cheaters and balancing issues. While it may not surpass other entries in the franchise for some reviewers, it remains a hit among players of all ages and is highly recommended for those seeking an enjoyable racing experience on handheld devices.
- fun gameplay
- track variety
- online issues
- suitable for all ages
- easy controls
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's It About?
MARIO KART 7, like all the Mario Kart games before it, pits the famous plumber brothers against their video game friends and enemies in a series of races through a cartoony fantasy world. There are new elements here, such as gliders to help you fly farther after a jump and the ability to drive underwater (and 3D graphics, of course). And a number of new courses as well. But this is very much the same Mario Kart experience players have come to expect.
Is It Any Good?
Mario Kart 7 is just as fun, fast-paced, creative, and generally enjoyable as all of its predecessors. But should it have been better? After a series has been around for this long, it could probably benefit from a real shake-up. That's not what you get here. Make no mistake, this is a very good game. The gliding and underwater driving are great additions. And it's nice that the Nintendo server will set you up with opponents who are around the same skill level as you. But if you've played previous Mario Kart games, you've already got the basic drift.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about competitive gaming. How can you play to win against friends and family members (or even strangers) and still show good sportsmanship? Can you still be sportsmanlike in a game that allows you to use sneaky weapons to get ahead?
They can also talk about how to set screen time limits. Why is it important to not spend too much time playing video games.
Game Details
- Platform : Nintendo 3DS
- Pricing structure :
- Available online? : Not available online
- Publisher : Nintendo
- Release date : December 4, 2011
- Genre : Racing
- ESRB rating :
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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