Crash Nitro Kart is based on the console game of the same name . It features the same characters/teams and story as the console game, and has the same adventure mode as the console game. Tracks have the same names as their console counterparts but have been drastically redesigned to work on the portable screens. The game utilises 2D sprites as opposed to the console game's 3D models, and also lacks the FMVs featured in the console game.
The gameplay of Crash Nitro Kart is an action-packed kart racing experience. Players can choose from a variety of characters, each with their own unique abilities, and compete in local multiplayer modes or adventure mode to unlock new tracks and items.