Nintendo Clarifies Mario Kart World Frame Rate for Switch 2: No 120fps Mode Confirmed

Nintendo has officially clarified performance details for Mario Kart World following widespread reports of a potential 120fps mode on the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 hardware.

The development comes after Engadget published claims suggesting the next-generation Mario Kart installment would feature a 120fps mode, raising expectations among series fans and tech enthusiasts alike. Background: Mario Kart World is the highly anticipated new entry in Nintendo's storied racing franchise, expected to be a flagship title for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.

With a track record of technical innovation, Mario Kart titles often set benchmarks for hardware capabilities and player experiences on Nintendo platforms.

Recent coverage from outlets including Engadget and Digital Foundry ignited discussion around the game's potential to deliver ultra-high frame rates, further fueled by the upcoming Mario Kart Direct event. Responding to an inquiry from GoNintendo, Nintendo provided an official statement addressing these performance rumors.

In clear terms, a Nintendo spokesperson confirmed: "In TV mode, the game can display up to 1440p and 60 FPS.

In Handheld or Tabletop mode, the game runs at up to 1080p and 60 FPS." This direct response makes no mention of a 120fps option for Mario Kart World on the Switch 2, instead indicating that both docked and handheld/tabletop modes will support up to 60fps, with resolutions of up to 1440p and 1080p respectively.

The company's statement puts to rest speculation stemming from Engadget's earlier report, which described a "120 fps mode," citing hands-on impressions with the unreleased game. Digital Foundry, respected for its technical analyses, also acknowledged Engadget's claims in a recent video.

However, the channel noted that they did not have independent capture or verification of the alleged 120fps mode at this time.

Meanwhile, Eurogamer observed that Mario Kart World's GameChat camera feed operates at approximately 8fps, and described the split-screen performance as maintaining a 60fps refresh rate for at least two players. As the Mario Kart Direct approaches this week, additional gameplay and performance details are expected to be shared directly by Nintendo.

For context, the prior installment, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, was capped at 1080p and 60fps in docked mode on the original Nintendo Switch, with similar performance in other modes. While fans await deeper technical insights and new features for Mario Kart World, Nintendo’s confirmation establishes the expected frame rate ceiling for one of Switch 2’s headline releases.

Stay tuned to official Nintendo channels and the upcoming Direct presentation for full details on what promises to be a defining launch for the franchise.

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