Mario Kart 64 (Japanese: マリオカート64) is a racing game developed and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo 64. It is the second installment in the Mario Kart series and the sequel to Super Mario Kart for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. The game was released in Japan on December 14, 1996, in North America on February 10, 1997, and in Europe on June 20, 1997. Mario Kart 64 features eight playable characters, each with their own unique vehicle. Players can race on 16 different tracks, including new courses such as Choco Mountain, Banshee Boardwalk, and Royal Raceway. The game also features four different game modes: Grand Prix, Time Trial, Versus, and Battle. In Grand Prix mode, players race against seven computer-controlled opponents in a series of four races. Time Trial mode allows players to race against the clock and try to achieve the best time possible. Versus mode allows players to race against each other with up to four players. In Battle mode, players compete in a game of balloon-popping mayhem. Mario Kart 64 features a variety of power-ups and items to use on the track. Items such as the Mushroom, Star, and Golden Mushroom can be used to boost the player's speed, while the Banana Peel and Shell can be used to slow down opponents. Players can also collect coins to upgrade their vehicle's performance. Mario Kart 64 has been praised for its visuals, sound, and gameplay. It has sold over nine million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling Nintendo 64 games of all time.