Mario Kart Drinking Game: Beerio Kart and Best Variations

Mario Kart Drinking GameMario Kart Drinking Game

Welcome to the world of the Mario Kart drinking game, where the only thing more thrilling than dodging a blue shell is trying to finish your drink before crossing the finish line. Let’s dive into the rules that have made Beerio Kart a legendary party staple and discover some fresh new spins on the classic game.

What is the Mario Kart Drinking Game?

Mario Kart is a high-speed, high-stakes game that’s perfect for a drinking game. The chaos of banana peels, blue shells, and last-minute victories makes it an exciting choice. While Beerio Kart is the most famous version, where players must finish their drink before completing the race, numerous other variations have emerged, each adding its own flair. The game can be played with any version of Mario Kart, from the nostalgic tracks of Mario Kart 64 to the high-speed chaos of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, making it a versatile choice for any group of friends looking to spice up their gaming night. 

If you’re looking to liven up your Switch game night with the Super Mario franchise, check out this article to explore the Mario Party drinking game.

Mario Kart Rainbow Road Track
Mario Kart Rainbow Road Track

The Classic Beerio Kart Rules

The traditional rules of Beerio Kart are simple but effective:

  1. Finish Your Drink: The core rule is that each player must finish their drink before they complete the final lap of the race.
  2. No Drinking and Driving: Players are not allowed to drink while their kart is moving. To drink, they must come to a complete stop, putting down the controller.
  3. Penalty for Incomplete Drinks: Any player who fails to finish their drink by the end of the race automatically loses, regardless of their position in the race.

Game Rules for Different Mario Kart Versions

While the basic rules remain consistent, some adaptations might be needed depending on which version of Mario Kart you’re playing:

  • Mario Kart 64: The original Beerio Kart was born here, and it works well with the simpler, slower-paced gameplay.
  • Mario Kart Double Dash: With two players per kart, consider assigning one player as the designated drinker while the other drives.
  • Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: The fast pace and complex tracks may require more frequent stops for drinking, adding to the challenge.

Creative Mario Kart Drinking Game Variations

Social Kart Rules

In this variation, the focus is on group participation. Whenever a player gets hit by certain items, everyone must take a drink:

  • Lightning Strike: Everyone drinks when a player is struck by lightning.
  • Blue Shell: When the blue shell hits, all players (or just the top three) take a drink.
  • Super Horn: The player who uses the Super Horn makes everyone else take a drink.

Penalty Shots for Item Hits

This variation ups the ante by assigning specific drinks to different items:

  • Banana: Take a shot of banana-flavored liqueur if you hit or get hit by a banana peel.
  • Red Shell: A sip of beer or a weaker drink for getting hit by a red shell.
  • Blue Shell: The ultimate penalty—a shot of the strongest drink available.

Co-op Drinking in Double Dash

For those playing Mario Kart Double Dash, this variation adds a cooperative twist:

  • Driver and Shooter: The player controlling the kart cannot drink, while the player handling the items must finish their drink before the end of the race.
  • Swap Roles: After each race, players switch roles to keep things fair.

Tips for Hosting a Mario Kart Drinking Game Night

Choose the Right Drinks

  • Beer: Light beers work well for longer play sessions, keeping the game fun without overwhelming anyone.
  • Shots: Reserve shots for specific items or penalties to keep things exciting without overdoing it.
  • Non-Alcoholic Options: Ensure there are non-alcoholic options available for players who choose not to drink or need a break.

Balancing Fun and Safety

  • Pace Yourself: Remind everyone that it’s a game—fun should be the priority, not overindulgence.
  • Set Limits: Consider setting a maximum number of drinks or a time limit for the game to keep things under control.
  • Have Food Available: Snacks or a meal can help balance the drinking and keep everyone feeling good.

Setting Up the Game for Maximum Fun

  • Arrange a Comfortable Space: Ensure there’s enough room for everyone to play comfortably, with easy access to drinks and snacks.
  • Handle Controllers Carefully: Spilled drinks and electronics don’t mix—set up a safe place to put controllers while drinking.
  • Create a Fun Atmosphere: Use music, decorations, or themed cups to add to the party vibe.
Mario Kart Luigis Mansion
Mario Kart Luigis Mansion

Best Mario Kart Game Ideas from Reddit and Quora

The online community has come up with some fantastic variations on the Mario Kart drinking game:

  • Reverse Drinking: Drink every time you are in first place instead of last, flipping the usual dynamic.
  • Placement Drinks: Take as many drinks as the position you finish in (e.g., third place takes three sips).
  • Item Madness: Assign drinks to all items, not just the major ones—make every banana and mushroom count!

FAQ for The Mario Kart Drinking Game

What are other names for Beerio Kart?

Beerio Kart, also known as Grand Pre, KUI, Drunk Mario Kart, or Don’t Drink and Drive, is a drinking game played alongside Mario Kart. The main challenge is to finish an entire beer during a race, but you can’t drink and drive simultaneously. Players must stop their karts to take a sip, adding a strategic twist to the game. There are many variations, but the core objective remains the same: drink your beer and finish the race first. It’s a fun blend of gaming and social drinking, making it a hit at parties and gatherings.

How many karts are in Super Mario Kart?

In Super Mario Kart, the original game released for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) in 1992, players can choose from eight different karts, each driven by a character from the Mario universe. The lineup includes Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Yoshi, Bowser, Donkey Kong Jr., Koopa Troopa, and Toad. Each character’s kart offers unique handling and speed attributes, adding variety and strategy to the gameplay.

What other games are equivalent to Mario Kart?

1. Crash Team Racing – A kart racing game featuring characters from the Crash Bandicoot series.
2. Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed – A racing game where characters from the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise compete in transforming vehicles.
3. Diddy Kong Racing – A kart racing game with characters from the Donkey Kong universe, featuring both karts and planes.
4. ModNation Racers – A customizable kart racing game where players can create their own tracks and characters.
5. Garfield Kart – A kart racing game starring characters from the Garfield comic strip.
6. Team Sonic Racing – A team-based kart racing game featuring Sonic the Hedgehog characters.
7. Mario Kart Tour – A mobile version of Mario Kart offering similar gameplay on smartphones.