Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled for Nintendo Switch

So you’re scrolling through the Switch eShop looking for something light but actually enjoyable? Maybe you’ve got a few friends over and want to play something that doesn’t require commitment but still delivers laughs and chaos. That’s where Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled comes in. I grabbed it after hearing about it from a friend who was obsessed with the original on PS1. Didn’t expect to get hooked again - but here we are.

The good stuff

The way they reworked the tracks is genuinely smart. They kept the classic layout - like the spooky, looping spiral of Coco Park - but added subtle new paths and visual flair that make each lap feel fresh. And the characters? Each one has a distinct weight and handling. I played as Crunch and was shocked how much slower he felt compared to Nina, even though he’s supposed to be the big guy. It’s not just cosmetic - it changes how you approach races. Also, the online multiplayer is surprisingly stable. We had a 4-player race across states with zero lag, which is rare for a Switch game. It feels like they didn’t cut corners on that front.

The not-so-good

And yeah, the Adventure mode is fine - cute story beats, decent pacing - but it’s kind of short. You can blow through it in under an hour if you’re focused. There’s no real challenge beyond the last few boss races, which are a bit clunky. Also, the lack of local split-screen is weird. I’d love to play with my sister on the same couch, but the only option is online or solo. Not a dealbreaker, but definitely a miss for couch co-op fans. And if you’re into deep customization, there’s barely anything. Kart parts are mostly cosmetic, and the upgrades don’t change much.

Bottom line

If you liked the original CTR or just want a fun, easygoing kart racer with solid online play, this is worth your time. It’s not groundbreaking, but it’s well made and full of charm. The character variety and track design alone make it stand out from other remasters. If you’re on a Nintendo Switch and want something to jump into casually with friends, give Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled for Nintendo Switch a try. It’s not free, but it’s honestly better than most $20 games out there.