Mario Kart: Double Dash!! differs from prior Mario Kart games (such as Mario Kart 64) by having two characters in each kart, instead of one. One drives the kart, while the other can pick up and throw items in front or behind the kart, to try and slow other players down. The second character can also taunt other players, and provide driving assistance by moving their weight around to help the kart skid around corners. The game includes 16 courses, 6 battle stages, and 20 characters in the game.