Mario Kart World Update: 50 Playable Characters Confirmed in Latest Nintendo Switch 2 Direct
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Published on: August 30, 2017
Description
Nintendo has once again raised the bar for multiplayer racing with its upcoming title, Mario Kart World, launching exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2.
The global gaming giant recently hosted an in-depth Nintendo Direct presentation in April, offering fans a closer look at the highly anticipated game.
While the presentation was concise, lasting just 15 minutes, it delivered significant new insights, most notably confirming a robust roster of 50 playable characters.
This announcement marks a major milestone for the Mario Kart franchise, now celebrating more than three decades as one of Nintendo's flagship series.
Mario Kart World’s expansion to 50 racers—one of the largest rosters in franchise history—was revealed through a combination of official Direct coverage, hands-on experiences at Nintendo Switch 2 Experience events, and detailed press materials.
The game will also feature large-scale races with up to 24 competitors simultaneously, a first for the series and a nod to the increasing scale and excitement of modern multiplayer gaming.
"We're committed to delivering the most dynamic and inclusive Mario Kart experience yet," Nintendo representatives shared during the presentation, emphasizing the diversity of the roster and enhanced gameplay mechanics made possible by the new Nintendo Switch 2 hardware.
Building on the legacy of its predecessors, Mario Kart World is set to combine classic tracks with brand new circuits inspired by both fan favorites and fresh Nintendo universes.
The confirmed character lineup, which fans were eager to review following the Nintendo Direct, cements the game's status as a definitive entry for both series veterans and newcomers.
The anticipation for Mario Kart World has been palpable since its original announcement, further fueled by the success of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, the best-selling game on Nintendo Switch.
According to Nintendo's officially reported figures, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe has surpassed 60 million units sold worldwide, setting a high bar for the upcoming installment.
Mario Kart World is expected to leverage the enhanced capabilities of Nintendo Switch 2, promising improved graphics, faster loading times, and enriched online features, including expanded multiplayer and eShop connectivity.
The game will be available exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2 platform, with its official release date and further details anticipated in forthcoming Nintendo Direct presentations.
For fans eager to explore the latest evolution of Mario Kart and experience a record-shattering roster of racers, Mario Kart World is shaping up as one of the most substantial releases in Nintendo’s 2025 lineup.
Keep an eye on the official Nintendo Direct announcements and the Nintendo eShop for pre-order information and future updates.
