Mario Kart World: 50 Playable Characters Confirmed for Nintendo Switch 2

Nintendo continues to build excitement for its next-generation hardware with the recent Mario Kart World-focused Nintendo Direct, showcasing extensive details about the highly anticipated racing title set for Nintendo Switch 2.

The presentation, broadcast on April 17th, 2025, provided fans and industry insiders with key updates, including an extensive character roster and new track details.

Mario Kart World marks the latest installment in Nintendo's legendary racing series, following the massive global success of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on Nintendo Switch.

Developed by Nintendo EPD, the game is designed to take advantage of the enhanced capabilities of the Switch 2, offering improved visuals and expanded multiplayer options.

During the 15-minute Direct, Nintendo revealed that players will have access to a total of 50 playable characters—a record for the franchise. The growing roster is a result of a series of official announcements, hands-on demonstrations at Nintendo Switch 2 Experience events, and information found in the latest press kits.

With up to 24 racers on track simultaneously, Mario Kart World promises a new scale of competitive chaos, setting it apart from previous titles.

Representatives from Nintendo described this latest entry as their "most ambitious Mario Kart to date," noting that fans can expect both beloved returning racers and fresh faces making their debut. Beyond character confirmations, the event highlighted several new and remixed tracks, though Nintendo emphasized they are holding back select surprises for launch.

While the Direct presentation offered only a glimpse into the course lineup, community reactions have been overwhelmingly positive about the variety and scale of the tracks shown so far.

The presentation also reinforced that Mario Kart World will fully utilize the online features of Switch Online, providing robust matchmaking and tournament capabilities to support the expanded player base. Mario Kart World’s confirmation on Nintendo Switch 2 is strategically timed as Nintendo transitions its audience to its new hardware generation.

The game’s multiplatform exposure was underscored by recent precedent: the re-release of GoldenEye 007 on modern systems, a move that demonstrated Nintendo's commitment to reviving and expanding its classic franchises.

In 2023, GoldenEye 007 appeared on Nintendo Switch via the Switch Online service and on Xbox One, marking its first modern reissue since the N64 era. With Mario Kart World, Nintendo further cements its legacy in the kart racing genre while pushing technical and social boundaries for its player base.

The game is poised to be a cornerstone title for the Nintendo Switch 2 and a rallying point for both long-time fans and new players.

As the launch date approaches, more details are expected to emerge, but for now, the confirmation of 50 playable characters and robust multiplayer options sets high expectations for the future of Mario Kart.

Mario Kart World Nintendo Switch 2 Nintendo Nintendo Direct GoldenEye 007 Nightdive Studios Switch Online