Published on: March 20, 2019
Nintendo has officially raised the stakes for kart racing fans, confirming an impressive roster of 50 playable characters for Mario Kart World during its latest Nintendo Direct presentation.
The announcement, delivered as part of a 15-minute Mario Kart World-focused showcase, highlights the publisher’s ongoing commitment to expanding one of its most iconic franchises in anticipation of the Nintendo Switch 2 hardware launch.
Mario Kart World, first introduced to the gaming community through a series of teasers and gameplay demos, continues to build momentum following hands-on impressions at the Nintendo Switch 2 Experience events.
The April Nintendo Direct offered new details about the upcoming racing game, solidifying what fans and industry analysts have been speculating: Mario Kart World will feature the largest roster in series history, with 50 distinct, playable characters available at launch.
Players will have the opportunity to select from a mix of returning favorites and newcomers, with up to 24 racers competing simultaneously on expansive new and classic tracks.
Nintendo has stated that this enhanced player count is made possible by the advanced capabilities of the Nintendo Switch 2, marking a technical leap for the beloved racing series.
"We're thrilled to deliver a Mario Kart experience on Nintendo Switch 2 that brings together more characters and players than ever before," a Nintendo representative said during the broadcast.
The recent Direct not only reconfirmed the number of playable racers but also gave viewers a deeper look at game modes, environments, and customization features, all designed to leverage the additional processing power of the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.
©Mario Kart World will also support online multiplayer and improved local wireless competition, reinforcing Nintendo's focus on both social and competitive play.©
Mario Kart World is among the most anticipated first-party releases slated for the Nintendo Switch 2, underscoring the company's momentum as it prepares to transition to a new hardware generation.
With a confirmed release window and a record-breaking 50 playable characters, the title looks poised to set new benchmarks in accessibility and excitement for fans of Nintendo's iconic racing franchise.
Stay tuned for further updates from Nintendo, including specific release dates and additional gameplay details, as the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 draws closer.