Ever since rumors started circulating, the launch lineup for Nintendo Switch 2 has been eagerly dissected by fans. Now that the console has been officially unveiled, details about its debut are still scarce. Yet, it seems at least one new game, a fresh entry in the Mario Kart series, is heading to the roster.
At the tail end of the Nintendo Switch 2 announcement trailer, a subtle tease of the new Mario Kart appeared, hinting at some intriguing innovations in the beloved series. To capitalize on these changes, and perhaps deliver the most significant Mario Kart experience yet, the new game might draw inspiration from the boundary-pushing nature of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.
Although the showcase was brief, lasting less than 20 seconds, eagle-eyed fans believe they’ve caught sight of significant updates coming to Mario Kart on the Nintendo Switch 2. The teaser began with the familiar pre-race start-up screen, but this one looked notably different.
A desert-themed track was glimpsed alongside a start-up screen showing 24 grids, suggesting an increase from the 12 racers typical in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe to possibly 24 on the track at once. While Nintendo hasn’t confirmed this exciting possibility, evidence suggests this Mario Kart installment might expand the franchise’s scope. Shots of the new track reveal a broader layout, and the brief appearance of what resembles a gas station pit stop has sparked speculation about incorporating a fuel mechanic, hinting at longer, more open tracks.
All signs point to an ambitious new entry that may feature a more extensive lineup of drivers, aligning with the proposed scale of the game.
Regarding character selection, if there are indeed more slots to fill, Nintendo should consider casting a wider net beyond the Mario universe. Mario Kart 8 successfully introduced crossover characters like Link from The Legend of Zelda, Villagers and Isabelle from Animal Crossing, and Inklings from Splatoon. However, this merely scratches the surface of Nintendo’s expansive IP vault.
Imagine adding characters from Metroid, Kirby, Starfox, Pikmin, and even Pokémon, complete with tracks inspired by their unique worlds. Nintendo Switch 2’s Mario Kart might even embrace a Smash Bros. Ultimate-style approach, welcoming characters from other gaming franchises. Incorporating these crossovers would undoubtedly require effort but could transform this new Mario Kart into a groundbreaking step forward for the series, enhancing the appeal of the Switch 2’s launch lineup.
