Nintendo has finally pulled back the curtain on its much-anticipated next-gen console, the Nintendo Switch 2, and alongside it unveiled gameplay footage of what many believe to be Mario Kart 9, the latest installment of the iconic racing series. The reveal took place during today's event, drawing immediate excitement from fans as they got their first look at the new hardware and its capabilities.
The teaser showcased thrilling races on the all-new "Mario Bros. Circuit," which is set against the backdrop of vast desert landscapes. The course features familiar characters, including Mario, Luigi, Peach, Bowser, Toad, and even Donkey Kong, but redesigned with different aesthetics, possibly reflecting their appearances from the recent animated film.
Players can expect several firsts from this upcoming title. Notably, there appears to be room for 24 racers on the starting grid, doubling the number of competitors from Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, which was previously capped at 12. This exciting potential for larger races is bolstered by the reveal, which shows up to 15 characters racing simultaneously on screen, hinting at even more chaotic fun.
While players remain curious about the lack of official title and release date for the new Mario Kart, the game's inclusion in the Switch 2 announcement suggests it could very well be among the launch titles for the new console. This follows Nintendo's trend of releasing new Mario Kart games alongside hardware reveals; the last full game, Mario Kart 8, debuted on the Wii U back in 2014.
The gameplay footage, though brief, featured not just the characters, but also the karts themselves, now appearing somewhat more compact and round than their predecessors. The addition of NPC vehicles on the track and Easter eggs like the Yoshi's Diner fast-food outlet adds to the whimsical charm fans adore about the series. There’s chatter among fans about whether this new aesthetic is reminiscent of the original Super Mario Kart from the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, signaling yet another nod to the franchise's storied history.
Another exciting aspect of the reveal is Nintendo's reaffirmation of backwards compatibility with the original Switch titles, ensuring players can carry over their favorite games to the new platform. This feature is expected to include both digital and physical games, allowing fans to seamlessly transition to the Switch 2 without losing access to their digital libraries.
The trailer generated considerable buzz on social media, with fans dissecting every possible detail. Some viewers noted how the models appeared to take on a chibi-like design, raising speculation about potential changes to gameplay mechanics or character customization options. The introduction of courses featuring non-traditional elements, like the expansive desert and the promise of more open-world racing elements, leave fans eagerly discussing what else might be included. Could we be seeing dynamic tracks or hub worlds? Only time will tell!
This latest announcement has exemplified the long relationship between Nintendo and its beloved racing franchise; after all, Mario Kart 8 boasts sales of over 64 million units, easily making it the best-selling game on the Switch. With Mario Kart's entire existence built on its ability to evolve and surprise, expectations are high for how the ninth edition will capitalize on the series' strengths and its shift to the upgraded Nintendo Switch 2 console.
Following the reveal, additional information is expected to be released during Nintendo's Direct event scheduled for April 2, 2025, at which fans can anticipate more extensive details about Mario Kart 9 and what other surprises the Switch 2 might offer. Along with this, many are wondering how closely Mario Kart 9 will align with its predecessor, or if it will offer new narrative experiences.
For now, players and fans will have to bide their time, eagerly awaiting more information following the initial teaser. But one thing is clear: Nintendo aims to maintain its renowned status within the gaming community with innovative experiences, ensuring Mario Kart remains at the forefront of racing games as it takes yet another leap forward.