Mario Kart 9 for Switch 2: What Industry Experts Want from Nintendo’s Next Racing Evolution

Nintendo has officially confirmed the development of a new Mario Kart title for its next-generation hardware, the highly anticipated Switch 2.

As fans and industry watchers react to this milestone announcement, discussions are underway about what Mario Kart 9 could deliver—and what could help it surpass its wildly successful predecessor, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Background: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, released for Nintendo Switch in April 2017, remains the platform’s best-selling game, with over 60 million units sold worldwide.

The game’s continued popularity has been bolstered by the expansive Booster Course Pass DLC, which introduced a host of new tracks.

Despite its enduring appeal, fans and critics have been eager for a true sequel, as the core racing formula has remained largely unchanged for over a decade. In a recent editorial roundtable featuring Nintendo Life editors Gavin Lane, Jim Norman, Ollie Reynolds, and Alana Hagues, the panel shared insights on Nintendo’s brief tease of the new game during the Switch 2 reveal trailer.

"The reveal was about as safe as it gets," one editor summarized, highlighting how the short footage confirmed fan expectations without giving away any major new features.

The developmental focus, they noted, seems to be updating the Mario Kart experience for a new generation while maintaining the series’ signature accessibility. Gameplay Evolution: Industry voices agree that Mario Kart 9 shouldn’t simply be an "everyone is here" compilation like Super Smash Bros.

Ultimate.

While the existing character roster in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is extensive, some panelists argued that new gameplay mechanics would be a more meaningful evolution than simply expanding the list of racers.

For instance, editors proposed the addition of inventive modes, such as F-Zero-style elimination races or creative team co-op formats inspired by Double Dash.

Others referenced elements from The Super Mario Bros.

Movie as inspiration, suggesting features like mid-race vehicle swapping or stealing parts from rivals. While open-world features have become popular in other Nintendo franchises, the roundtable consensus was that Mario Kart’s strength lies in its pick-up-and-play format.

Large, multi-route tracks and the possibility of new elimination modes or strategic pit stops were favored over a sprawling, open world.

Regarding single-player content, some believed that a more developed story mode could alienate fans seeking fast, accessible multiplayer experiences. Classic and New Tracks: On the question of returning legacy courses, the editors were divided but leaned toward innovation.

While the Booster Course Pass offered nostalgia with remastered retro tracks, many feel Mario Kart 9 should focus on delivering fresh circuits tailor-made for new mechanics, rather than relying too heavily on past favorites. Track Creation Potential: The idea of a “Mario Kart Maker” mode—allowing players to build and share custom circuits—was widely discussed.

While many would welcome such a feature, concerns were raised around its practicality, including moderation and interface design.

Should such a feature appear, it could mark a significant addition to user-generated content on the Nintendo Switch eShop. Naming the Next Entry: While Nintendo has not yet revealed the official title, speculation abounds.

With entries like Mario Kart Tour and Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit already in the series’ numbering scheme, editors humorously debated potential names—ranging from Mario Kart X to Mario Kart Switched. Looking Ahead: As Mario Kart 9 enters development for Switch 2, the pressure is on Nintendo to deliver both fresh innovation and the charm that has made the Mario Kart series a staple of the company’s catalogue.

With a launch window reportedly set for the new console’s first year, fans and industry analysts alike will be watching closely as more details emerge. With Mario Kart 8 Deluxe’s legacy at stake, Nintendo has the chance to redefine its iconic racing franchise for a new generation—combining accessible gameplay, online features, and inventive new twists that keep both longtime fans and new players engaged.

Nintendo Switch 2 Mario Kart Nintendo Mario Switch 2 Switch Mario Kart 9 Kart