The much-anticipated Mario Kart World, one of the exclusive launch titles for the Nintendo Switch 2, offers a thrilling experience for fans of the franchise. Boasting significantly enhanced graphics, a vast open-world environment, and a rich array of new gameplay mechanics along with both new and beloved tracks, it promises to be an exciting adventure. This is particularly appealing for those who have enjoyed Mario Kart 8 since its first launch on the Wii U and subsequent re-release on the Switch back in 2017.
Despite its impressive visual appeal and exciting offerings, Mario Kart World is not without its shortcomings. For many players, the expansive world may not serve a meaningful purpose. More critically, it lacks several key features that contributed to the immense popularity of Mario Kart 8. While some omissions might be acceptable, as they don’t seem essential to the new experience, others are crucial. Without these elements, gaming enthusiasts may find Mario Kart World lacking when compared to its predecessor.
Absence of Crossover Characters in Mario Kart World
Missing Key DLC Characters from MK 8
When Mario Kart 8 was released on the Nintendo Switch, it introduced several downloadable content (DLC) characters from various Nintendo franchises, allowing players to race as favorites like Isabelle and the Villager from Animal Crossing, Inkling Boy and Girl from Splatoon, and Link from The Legend of Zelda. These additions, along with exclusive tracks, enriched the gaming experience. Unfortunately, despite Mario Kart World showcasing a massive character roster that could exceed 50 racers, there are currently no crossover characters available. This absence means long-time fans of Link or Isabelle may find themselves disappointed.
The lack of these beloved characters can leave Mario Kart World feeling somewhat limited and isolated, unlike the diverse roster celebrated in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. There’s potential for future updates, but introducing previous crossover characters as paid DLC could stir up controversy among fans, especially given the game’s premium pricing, which has already drawn criticism.
Mario Kart World’s Extensive Character Roster
A Wide Variety of Unique Racers Available
While the initial showcase of Mario Kart World’s character selection may not seem astonishing, with many returning characters appearing in new outfits, the game includes a broad array of unique characters, including the debut of the new racer, Cow. Many players are also hoping for the return of notable absentees like Petey Piranha, customizable Miis, and the Koopalings, all of whom were part of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.
Despite some losses, the impressive overall character count confirms that Mario Kart World could feature around 50 unique racers, surpassing Mario Kart 8 Deluxe’s total of 48, inclusive of all its DLC. However, the transition from iconic characters like Link to a Snowman, or Isabelle to a Coin Coffer, may leave some disappointed. Although these smaller characters enrich the Mario universe, fans may feel that larger, more recognizable names significantly enhance the excitement that Mario Kart is known for—something that DLC may address in the future.
Anticipation of Future DLC Racers in Mario Kart World
Expected Release of DLC Content by Nintendo
Although the current roster of Mario Kart World lacks crossover characters, Nintendo is likely to expand this list through future DLC releases. The success of the Booster Course DLC for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe has set a precedent, and it’s safe to expect Nintendo to replicate this model. While specifics regarding the inclusion of fan-favorites like Link and Isabelle remain unclear, the potential for new additions based on the existing character pool seems promising.
Moreover, the inclusion of new themed courses inspired by Nintendo franchises is highly anticipated. For instance, a course similar to the Hyrule Circuit would greatly enhance gameplay. Fans might even see unexpected characters introduced, such as Shulk from Xenoblade Chronicles or Samus from Metroid, and maybe even third-party icons like Snake from Metal Gear Solid or Joker from Persona 5.
While it’s easy to wish that Nintendo maintains reasonable pricing for any potential DLC, given the recent price escalations for its base titles, players hope that Mario Kart World does not follow this trend. Ultimately, the introduction of crossover characters would solidify Mario Kart World’s status as the definitive celebration of Nintendo’s legacy on the Switch 2, much like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate did for the prior console.