After a long wait of over a decade, Nintendo is finally set to unveil the next instalment in the beloved Mario Kart series, tentatively titled Mario Kart 9.
The excitement surrounding this new racing game has been reignited following the recent reveal of the Nintendo Switch 2, where a brief teaser showcased what fans can expect from this highly anticipated title.
The new Mario Kart game is expected to launch alongside the Switch 2, which is rumoured to hit the shelves in June 2025.
This timing aligns with Nintendo's strategy of releasing major titles to bolster the launch of new consoles.
Fans may even get a chance to try out the game during demo events scheduled for April 2025, including a stop in London.
Characters and Roster
The teaser, though only 20 seconds long, provided a glimpse of familiar faces.
Mario leads the pack, followed closely by Luigi, Peach, Toad, Daisy, and Rosalina.
A total of 24 characters were identified in the clip, hinting at the possibility of 24-player races—a significant increase from the 12-player limit in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.
This expanded roster could include fan favourites like Yoshi, Bowser, Wario, and even retro designs like Donkey Kong's classic look.
New Features and Gameplay Mechanics
Mario Kart 9 promises to introduce exciting new features.
One of the most notable is the potential for 24-player races, which would allow for a more chaotic and thrilling multiplayer experience.
The teaser also hinted at new power-ups, including a mysterious shiny object that fans speculate could be a Yellow Wonder Seed, reminiscent of items from the Super Mario Bros. Wonder game.
Additionally, the game appears to feature a new Desert map, complete with a four-lane motorway and a diner called Yoshi’s, adding a whimsical touch to the racing environment.
The inclusion of throwback karts and new accessories, such as tank-like tires for Rosalina's kart, suggests that players can expect a mix of nostalgia and innovation.
Enhanced Immersion with Joy-Con Accessories
In the lead-up to the Switch 2 reveal, a leaked steering wheel accessory designed for the Joy-Con was spotted, reminiscent of the classic Wii steering wheel.
This accessory could enhance the racing experience, allowing players to steer their karts by tilting the wheel, adding a layer of immersion to the gameplay.
While much remains to be officially confirmed, the teaser for Mario Kart 9 has certainly set the stage for what could be one of the biggest titles for the Nintendo Switch 2.
With the promise of larger races, new characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics, fans are eagerly awaiting more details as the release date approaches.
The combination of nostalgia and fresh features could make Mario Kart 9 a standout entry in the franchise, rekindling the joy and chaos that has made the series a staple in multiplayer gaming.
