50 Playable Characters Confirmed for Mario Kart World on Nintendo Switch 2

Nintendo has continued to build momentum for its highly anticipated racing title, Mario Kart World, with a special Nintendo Direct dedicated solely to the game.

The April presentation, broadcast earlier today, offered fans a closer look at the latest entry in the venerable Mario Kart series, including an updated character roster and new gameplay insights.

Mario Kart World, developed by Nintendo for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 hardware, aims to expand the scope of the franchise with enhanced visuals, new racing mechanics, and a larger assortment of characters than ever before.

The 15-minute Direct presentation confirmed a key detail that has sparked excitement among long-time fans and newcomers alike: the game will feature 50 playable characters at launch, the largest roster ever assembled in Mario Kart history.

Players have been gradually introduced to many of these characters through various hands-on demos at Nintendo Switch 2 Experience events and previous Nintendo Directs.

However, today’s focused broadcast and the accompanying press kit have provided the first comprehensive look at the full lineup.

The expanded roster allows up to 24 racers to compete simultaneously in multiplayer, representing a significant leap from previous entries in the series.

A spokesperson for Nintendo emphasized the company’s commitment to delivering a rich and diverse roster, stating that the expanded character list is designed to "give every player a new way to experience their favorite Mario Kart courses and discover new favorites along the way." The official documentation also highlighted that fan-favorite characters will be joined by new faces joining the circuit for the first time. Mario Kart World is scheduled for release exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2.

The game continues the legacy of high-quality, innovative multiplayer racing experiences that have made the franchise a consistent seller and cultural mainstay since its debut.

Previous Mario Kart titles have collectively sold over 170 million copies worldwide, according to Nintendo’s internal sales data, cementing Mario Kart’s reputation as one of the industry’s most successful and beloved franchises. The Nintendo Direct further showcased glimpses of new tracks, improved customization options, and a suite of multiplayer features that leverage the enhanced capabilities of the Nintendo Switch 2.

Dedicated fans and new players alike can look forward to additional updates as the release date approaches, with more details expected through future Nintendo Direct presentations and official press releases. Mario Kart World represents a significant step forward for the franchise, bringing fans together with the richest content offering yet on Nintendo’s next-generation hardware.

As anticipation builds, confirmed details such as the massive 50-character roster affirm Nintendo’s dedication to innovation and fan engagement within the Mario Kart universe.

Mario Kart World Nintendo Nintendo Switch 2 Nintendo Direct