It’s been over a decade since the release of a mainline title in the iconic Mario Kart series, and the excitement for Mario Kart 9 is palpable among fans. Despite Nintendo’s silence since the launch of Mario Kart 8 in 2013, the gaming community is buzzing with anticipation. Nintendo’s strategy so far has been to enhance Mario Kart 8 Deluxe for the Nintendo Switch, enriching the experience with new tracks, characters, and challenges. However, the question on everyone’s mind remains: when will Mario Kart 9 hit the tracks?
Unraveling the Mystery: Release Date Speculations
Official information on Mario Kart 9’s release is as elusive as a blue shell dodge. Nintendo hasn’t confirmed anything yet, but insider reports and industry rumors suggest that a new chapter in the beloved multiplayer franchise might be on the horizon. IGN stirred the pot in early January 2022, claiming Mario Kart 9 was in “active development.” This was echoed by Dr. Serkan Toto from GameIndustry.biz, who hinted at a possible tease of the game in 2022. However, with no announcement forthcoming, fans are left parsing through rumors and speculation.
The Switch Conundrum: Will Mario Kart 9 Debut on Nintendo Switch or Switch 2?
One of the biggest questions surrounding Mario Kart 9 is its platform. Will it race onto the current Nintendo Switch, or will it be a flagship title for the rumored Nintendo Switch 2? Given Mario Kart 8 Deluxe’s record-breaking success, with nearly one in two Switch owners having the game, the stakes are high. Releasing Mario Kart 9 on both the Nintendo Switch and its successor could be a strategic move, akin to how The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild was released on both the Switch and Wii U.
A New Twist in the Race
Every new iteration of Mario Kart brings a fresh twist, and Mario Kart 9 is expected to be no exception. Gaming insider Markomaro hinted at a potential “[Mario Kart] x Smash” concept, suggesting an expansive crossover that could transform Mario Kart into a Nintendo Kart, featuring characters and tracks from across Nintendo’s diverse universe. This could potentially include characters like Fox McCloud, Captain Falcon, and even third-party icons, echoing the inclusive spirit of the Super Smash Bros. series.
Me in Mario Kart 9 when they add the new Mercedes G Wagon: https://t.co/uutnYZTvKt pic.twitter.com/zu5ZmupvRY
— Moth (@moththepuff) January 13, 2024
The Lineup: Who’s Racing in Mario Kart 9?
The roster for Mario Kart 9 is a topic of much speculation. If the game embraces a crossover approach, we could see a diverse array of characters from across Nintendo’s catalog and beyond. This would mean not just the usual Mario Kart stalwarts like Mario, Luigi, and Peach, but possibly characters from other franchises like Pokémon, Kirby, and even third-party entities like Cloud Strife or Sonic. The potential for a rich, varied lineup is immense, making Mario Kart 9 a melting pot of gaming culture.
The Anticipated Arrival
In conclusion, Mario Kart 9 remains shrouded in mystery, but the pieces of the puzzle suggest it could be a groundbreaking addition to the series. With its potential release on the horizon, possibly coinciding with the launch of Nintendo Switch 2, and the exciting prospect of new characters and a fresh gameplay twist, Mario Kart 9 is poised to redefine kart racing once again. Fans worldwide are holding their breath, waiting for the official flag to drop, signaling the start of a new, exhilarating race in the world of Mario Kart.
