Mario Kart World on Nintendo Switch 2: Full Roster Details and Missing Veteran Characters

As anticipation continues to build for the upcoming release of Nintendo Switch 2 and Mario Kart World, fans and industry analysts alike are closely tracking every detail shared by Nintendo about its next-generation hardware and the latest entry in the beloved racing franchise.

Set to launch as a flagship title for the Switch 2, Mario Kart World carries with it the legacy of nearly three decades of kart-based competition, innovative features, and a vibrant, rotating cast of characters that has helped cement the Mario Kart series as the best-selling racing franchise in video game history. With the game’s launch date approaching, Nintendo has confirmed a host of returning characters and newly added racers.

However, several classic and fan-favorite drivers from previous titles remain unconfirmed, fueling ongoing discussion in the gaming community.

Here, we break down which veteran characters are still missing in action as of the latest Nintendo Direct, and which roster decisions have already been made public through official announcements and eShop listings. Among the unconfirmed drivers is Donkey Kong Jr., a character who originated in the first Super Mario Kart and later resurfaced in pixel form in Mario Kart Tour.

Despite his historical significance, Donkey Kong Jr.

has largely faded from recent entries, with series mainstay Diddy Kong effectively taking over his position within the broader Kong family lineup.

As it stands, Nintendo has not announced Donkey Kong Jr.

for Mario Kart World, suggesting his return is unlikely. Diddy Kong’s absence from the confirmed roster is notable, given his consistent popularity and appearances in titles such as Mario Kart Double Dash and Mario Kart Tour.

Related characters like Funky Kong and Dixie Kong also remain unconfirmed – their inclusion appears dependent on whether or not Diddy Kong himself is ultimately selected.

The omission of a core character like Diddy Kong, while more peripheral characters are present, is seen by many as a missed opportunity. Other classic racers, such as Koopa Paratroopa, who once served as Koopa Troopa’s partner in Double Dash, also have not been confirmed for the new game.

Official materials show Koopa Troopa will return, but there is no word yet on Paratroopa.

Similarly, Petey Piranha, last seen as downloadable content in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, is currently missing from the roster, though the standard Piranha Plant is now a playable character. Several unique characters from prior entries, including Honey Queen from Mario Kart 7 and Dry Bowser, who debuted in Mario Kart Wii and migrated through to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, round out the notable exclusions.

While Honey Queen’s signature vehicle, the Bumble V, appears in Mario Kart World, she herself has yet to be confirmed.

Dry Bowser, despite his popularity, faces an uncertain future in the new lineup. In terms of alternate versions of Nintendo staples, neither Metal Mario (a favorite among Mario Kart 7 online competitors) nor Pink Gold Peach have been announced for the new title.

The absence of these variants may reflect a shift away from duplicate character slots.

Likewise, the Koopalings – who enjoyed a high profile in Mario Kart 8 and Deluxe – are missing from the confirmed roster, although Bowser Jr.

remains present. Miis, Nintendo’s customizable avatars, are another question mark.

The company’s continued use of Miis in titles like the new Tomodachi Life suggests they have not been abandoned, but as with crossover characters such as Link, Villager, Isabelle, and the Inklings, their potential inclusion in Mario Kart World has yet to be officially highlighted. Finally, returning faces from Mario Kart Tour such as King Bob-omb, Kamek, and Poochy remain unannounced.

Kamek, notably, has often been relegated to non-playable roles in the series.

As the Mario Kart World roster continues to take shape, the community remains eager to discover whether any surprise unlockable characters are being held back for launch day reveals. At this time, Nintendo has not confirmed a complete roster for Mario Kart World.

With only weeks remaining until the debut of Nintendo Switch 2 and its marquee racing title, fans are encouraged to monitor official channels, including Nintendo’s website and forthcoming Nintendo Direct presentations, for final announcements. Stay tuned for continued updates on Mario Kart World, confirmed characters, and all major news from Nintendo as the company prepares for one of its most significant hardware launches in recent years.

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