On January 16, 2025, Nintendo will reveal the successor to the Switch, highlighted in a 2-minute trailer showcasing new visuals and features, including a potential Mario Kart game for up to 24 players. The trailer reveals a brand-new desert-themed track, fresh character designs, and new karts not seen in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Anticipation builds for the Nintendo Direct on April 2, which may answer lingering questions about gameplay and the official title of the upcoming game.
On Thursday, January 16, 2025, Nintendo is set to unveil the highly anticipated successor to the Switch console. This exciting announcement comes via a captivating 2-minute and 21-second trailer that offers a glimpse into the new device’s visuals and features, along with a sneak peek at what appears to be the next installment of the Mario Kart franchise. If you’re skeptical about this being just Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, we’ve outlined five compelling details that suggest otherwise.
A Mario Kart for 24 Players?
One of the most striking elements in the trailer is the starting line, which boasts 24 slots instead of the traditional 12. This indicates that the new Mario Kart could potentially allow 24 players (including A.I.) to race simultaneously. This expansion would double the number of participants compared to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, making for even more exhilarating races.
New Karts and Tracks in ‘Mario Kart 9’
While the 24 starting slots initially grab attention, the scenery and characters soon take center stage. Observers will note that the showcased track is entirely new and absent from Mario Kart 8 Deluxe or any of its DLCs. It features a desert-themed map, suggesting it will be included in the upcoming game. Additionally, a finish line arch displays the familiar ‘Mario Kart’ logo alongside the title ‘Mario Bros. Circuit.’ Interestingly, there’s also a Yoshi-themed fast-food spot that may serve as an item pickup location. This speculation raises curiosity about whether it will be functional or purely decorative. Furthermore, we can spot karts that have never appeared in the current Switch version, including those used by Harmony and Luigi.
Character Designs Get a Refresh
Lastly, let’s discuss the characters’ designs. The trailer introduces 24 distinct drivers, some of whom have undergone significant design updates compared to their appearances in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Characters like Mario, Donkey Kong, Peach, and Bowser exhibit fresh looks. For instance, Donkey Kong’s design aligns more closely with the style seen in the April 2023 movie release, while Mario’s appearance hints at the aesthetic of Super Mario Bros Wonder.
To wrap things up, here’s the list of characters featured in the Switch 2 trailer:
- Baby Daisy
- Baby Harmony
- Baby Mario
- Baby Luigi
- Baby Peach
- Birdo
- Bowser
- Bowser Jr.
- Donkey Kong
- Daisy
- Harmony
- Koopa
- Lakitu
- Luigi
- Mario
- Maskass
- Pauline
- Peach
- King Boo
- Toad
- Toadette
- Yoshi
- Waluigi
- Wario
While details about this game remain scarce and its official title is yet to be announced, there’s a strong likelihood that the Nintendo Direct on April 2, focused on the Switch 2, will clarify many of our questions. Will the tracks evolve? What new items are in play? Is there a unique gameplay mechanic for this new Mario Kart? Could this game truly be Mario Kart 9, or does it carry a different name?
The Nintendo Switch 2 is finally making its grand entrance into the public eye with an exciting trailer, yet it’s impossible to overlook the numerous leaks that have circulated about the console. Nintendo is likely to address these concerns, starting with Genki, who may find themselves in the spotlight.