Mario Kart World Character Roster: Developer Explains Focus on Mario Universe for Nintendo Switch Hit

Mario Kart World Character Roster: Developer Explains Focus on Mario Universe for Nintendo Switch Hit Mario Kart World marks the latest entry in Nintendo’s acclaimed racing franchise, debuting with an impressive 50 playable characters and a robust selection of costumes.

Released exclusively for the Nintendo Switch, Mario Kart World expands upon the series' tradition of accessible, exhilarating gameplay while making a significant shift in its character lineup compared to its predecessor, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

Notably absent this time are several crossover fan favorites, including Link (The Legend of Zelda), Isabelle and the Villagers (Animal Crossing), and the Inklings (Splatoon).

Instead, players are welcomed by a roster focused squarely on the Mario universe and its deep well of quirky personalities. In a recent interview with French publication Ouest-France, producer Kosuke Yabuki explained the development team’s decision to streamline the character selection.

Yabuki stated that the roster was already substantial and the inclusion of characters from outside the Mario universe did not align with their vision for this installment.

As he described, "As developers, it felt out of place to bring in characters from other franchises into the Mario Kart World universe.

Given the wealth of possibilities already available within the Mario characters, it seemed unnecessary to look further afield." Mario Kart World’s return to a Mario-centric cast echoes the enthusiasm of the development team, who were eager to introduce both iconic faces and fresh additions from the established roster.

Previous developer interviews highlighted their excitement in adding lesser-known Mario characters—including enduring fan favorites and surprising new racers.

Yabuki added, "The feedback to the new characters has been overwhelmingly positive, surpassing even our initial hopes for the cast.

It goes to show that fans appreciate the depth and variety the Mario series alone can provide." While longtime fans may miss the presence of all-stars from across Nintendo’s universe, Yabuki emphasized the team’s confidence in their chosen direction: "Selecting the final lineup always comes with questions about player reception, but with so many characters and costumes available, there’s truly something for everyone." Mario Kart World continues the franchise’s successful run on Nintendo Switch, adding to a platform legacy that includes record-breaking sales for its predecessor, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

The latter remains the console’s best-selling title, having surpassed 50 million copies sold worldwide as of late 2023, according to official Nintendo reports.

As Mario Kart World accelerates into the market, its focus on the core cast offers a fresh-yet-familiar experience designed to appeal to longtime fans and newcomers alike.

With this strategic character overhaul, Nintendo reinforces its commitment to expanding the Mario universe’s charm—one race at a time.

Mario Kart Nintendo Switch Mario Kart World Nintendo Mario Switch Kart Kosuke Yabuki Yabuki Koopalings Mario Kart 8 Deluxe