Like other games in the Mario Kart series , Mario Kart DS involves characters from Mario games racing each other in go-karts on tracks themed from locations in the Mario series . The game , like other Mario Kart games , employs various weapons or items that players can use to help themselves or slow down others . Computer and Video Games described Mario Kart DS as the `` most complete '' Mario Kart game , despite a few graphical shortcomings .