The Best Mario Sports Games on the Nintendo 64, Ranked

The Nintendo 64 was home to some of the most nostalgic and fun games of all time, and the Mario franchise was no exception when it came to sports games. Whether you were swinging clubs on the golf course or racing your friends through crazy tracks, the Mario sports games on the N64 brought a unique spin to their respective sports. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and rank the best Mario sports games on the N64!

1. Mario Kart 64 – The King of Racing

When you think of Mario Kart, Mario Kart 64 is likely the first thing that comes to mind, especially if you were born in the 90s. As the game that helped solidify the series as one of the most iconic racing games of all time, Mario Kart 64 took the core gameplay of its predecessor and added 3D tracks, new characters, and multiplayer mayhem.

The competitive racing, combined with the iconic power-ups and nostalgic tracks, made this game a staple in gaming memories for years to come. Whether you were playing solo or racing with friends, Mario Kart 64 will always be remembered for its endless fun and pure chaos.

2. Mario Golf – A Relaxing Yet Challenging Experience

Mario Golf stands as one of the most unique sports titles on the N64. While most sports games tried to replicate real-world sports, Mario Golf brought in its own quirky spin on the game. With characters like Mario, Luigi, and Bowser competing in a surprisingly deep and strategic golf game, Mario Golf was as accessible as it was challenging.

The relaxing music and vibrant green golf courses created a mellow atmosphere, but the challenge was always there. The game kept you on your toes, with little room for failure as you aimed for the perfect shot. It was the perfect balance of chill and intensity.The beauty of Mario Golf was how it made you feel relaxed and competitive at the same time.

3. Mario Tennis – Heart-Pumping, High-Energy Action

Mario Tennis on the N64 wasn’t just a simple tennis game—it was intense, heart-pumping, and energetic, just like real-life tennis. The fast-paced gameplay matched with remixed Mario-style music created a nostalgic yet thrilling vibe.

The game introduced Waluigi, a fan-favorite character who added even more flair to the game, and the villainous trio of Waluigi, Wario, and Bowser brought an unexpected level of tension and drama. With the suspenseful music and high-stakes matches, Mario Tennis was more than just sports—it was about skill, strategy, and a bit of Mario charm. It brought a competitive edge that was both fun and challenging, making it a standout in the series.