Mario Kart World Introduces NPC Drivers Like Cow as Playable Characters on Nintendo Switch 2

Mario Kart World, the latest entry in Nintendo’s iconic racing franchise, is set to launch on the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5, 2025.

As anticipation builds for its release, Nintendo has offered fans an intriguing glimpse into the game’s development process, sharing previously unseen concept art and discussing notable additions to the character roster.

In a recent interview for Mario Kart World, producers Kosuke Yabuki, Masaaki Ishikawa, and Kenta Sato shed light on the inclusion of non-playable character (NPC) drivers—an innovation that’s already stirring excitement across the community. Among the newly unveiled racers is Cow, a character who has quickly become a fan favorite.

Traditionally, Cow has appeared in previous Mario Kart titles merely as part of the background scenery or as an obstacle within ranch-themed tracks.

This time around, however, developers decided to revamp the series formula by promoting these familiar obstacles into full-fledged competitors. Reflecting on Cow’s unexpected role as a driver, producer Kosuke Yabuki explained that during early development of a ranch-inspired course, a designer sketched Cow actually driving.

This quirky concept resonated with the team, particularly with director Masaaki Ishikawa, who noted that each Mario Kart entry strives for fresh character-banter while simultaneously building on the franchise’s established roots.

The team recognized the track environments had many underutilized personalities, leading designers to explore which other iconic obstacles could transition into playable racers. Kenta Sato recounted that once the character designer created a prototype of Cow behind the wheel, they were surprised by how naturally the character fit among the lineup of seasoned drivers.

This success paved the way for further experimentation, resulting in additional course obstacles—such as Cheep Cheep and Pokey—joining the race as part of a novel group collectively referred to as "NPC drivers." Sato clarified that these so-called NPC drivers are essentially non-player character mainstays of the series, now repurposed as playable options for the first time. Yabuki humorously remarked on the playfulness of seeing Cow, a four-legged animal, gripping motorcycle handlebars, while Ishikawa added that the character’s animations remain true to her quadrupedal nature.

Both developers emphasized how giving life to these traditionally background elements creates a sense of continuity and interconnectedness within the Mario Kart universe. Mario Kart World not only reimagines its beloved cast but also exemplifies Nintendo’s commitment to innovation and fan-focused design.

With the Nintendo Switch 2 launch slated for June 5, 2025, longtime fans and newcomers can look forward to experiencing a richer, more imaginative world where even the most unlikely characters get their moment in the spotlight.

Nintendo Switch 2 Mario Kart Nintendo Switch Mario Kart World Nintendo Mario Switch 2 Switch Kart Cow Kosuke Yabuki Masaaki Ishikawa Kenta Sato Cheep Cheep Pokey