Mario Kart 64 [N64] Graded Video Game Variant Guide

Three Easy to Learn Variants are Recognized By WATA and CGC For This N64 Classic

Released in 1996, Mario Kart 64 immediately became a must-have game for the Nintendo 64. Lauded for its infinitely replayable multiplayer racing modes that are still enjoyed at both college house parties and serious tournaments today, this title was nearly as important to the success of the Nintendo 64 as the groundbreaking Super Mario 64. Graded sealed and complete in box (CIB) copies of Mario Kart 64 are always in demand and thankfully there are just three known NTSC variants currently recognized by WATA and CGC of this timeless title.

First Print - Mario Kart 64

Often referred to as the “first production” or “early production” of Mario Kart 64, this first print is simply all known copies that do not have the Player’s Choice marketing icon in the top right-hand corner of the box. The first-print box displays a K to A ESRB Rating. This variant may be listed as “Made in Japan,” but this information is superfluous as all known copies of this title were manufactured in Japan, regardless of variant.

Second Print - Mario Kart 64 Player’s Choice, K to A ESRB Rating

Sometimes referred to as a “later production” variant of Mario Kart 64, the second print of this title features the addition of the Player’s Choice - Million Seller icon in the upper right corner of the box front. Second prints also retain the Kids to Adults, or K to A, ESRB rating in the bottom right corner of the box front.

Third Print - Mario Kart 64 Player’s Choice, E ESRB Rating

Also often referred to as a “later production” variant of Mario Kart 64, the third and final print of this title features the continuation of the Player’s Choice - Million Seller icon in the upper right corner of the box front. What differentiates the third and final print from the second is the ESRB changing over their “K to A” rating in the bottom right corner of the box front to an “E for Everyone” rating. The ESRB made this change across the board to all “K to A” games in 1998.

Visual Recap of the Three Mario Kart 64 Variants

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Mario Kart 64

Mario Kart 64 Player’s Choice, K to A ESRB Rating

Mario Kart 64 Player’s Choice, E ESRB Rating

The contents of this guide were made in an effort to provide up-to-date information for popular certified retro video games. New variants of video games are discovered nearly every day. If you see any errors in this guide or have any information regarding additional possible variants of this game, please reach out at Info@StandardGaming.com.

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