Mario Kart World, the latest installment in the long-running racing series, is set to arrive with the launch of Nintendo’s next-generation console, the Switch 2. However, this wasn’t the original plan. The developers initially aimed to bring the title to the current Nintendo Switch, but technical limitations forced a change in direction.
Shifting Gears From DLC To A New Game
While preparing for a new title, the developers extended the lifespan of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe by releasing additional downloadable content. This approach gave the team more time to develop Mario Kart World properly, rather than rushing it onto outdated hardware.
A Different Vision From The Start
According to a recent developer Q&A shared by Nintendo, the creative team envisioned something significantly more ambitious than a typical sequel. The concept was to create an expansive open-world environment that moved away from isolated racing tracks, emphasizing large interconnected areas where players could freely explore and race.
The game was never intended to carry the name Mario Kart 9. Developers wanted to innovate and redefine what the series could be, signaling a clear break from the established format.
Development Began Years Ago
Development officially started at the end of 2017, but initial brainstorming and prototyping began as early as March that year. The idea was to evolve the series beyond its traditional mechanics, with producer Kosuke Yabuki explaining that Mario Kart 8 Deluxe had already perfected the conventional racing formula. This new title needed to offer something fresh—hence the open-world structure.
The Hardware Couldn’t Keep Up
During the early development phase, the team designed the game for the original Switch, aiming to support features like 24-player races in a fully explorable environment. However, those ambitions soon clashed with the technical reality of the system.
Programming director Kenta Sato revealed that achieving the game’s scope would have required serious sacrifices in visual fidelity, resolution, and frame rate. The team even considered dropping the frame rate to 30 FPS—an idea quickly discarded due to how vital fluidity is in a racing game.
Prioritizing Performance Over Compromise
Maintaining a smooth 60 frames per second experience has always been essential for the Mario Kart franchise. It enhances the feeling of speed and responsiveness, both critical elements in competitive racing gameplay. Rather than compromise, the developers chose to postpone the project and wait for more powerful hardware.
A Difficult But Necessary Decision
Yabuki admitted the team struggled with deciding what features could be dropped without damaging the game. As development progressed, the scope only grew, and it became clear the original hardware would not suffice. That realization led to discussions about shifting development to the upcoming Switch 2 platform.
This move was described as a breakthrough moment. Freed from previous constraints, the team could fully realize their creative vision for Mario Kart World without sacrificing essential elements.
Anticipating The Launch
With Mario Kart World now confirmed as a launch title for the Switch 2, excitement is building. The game and console are both set to release in the United States on June 5. Retailers like GameStop have indicated that limited stock will be available at launch for those who missed out on pre-orders.
The Switch 2 will retail for $450, and there are concerns it may become difficult to purchase due to high demand and potential price hikes caused by tariffs.
Looking Ahead
Nintendo’s willingness to delay Mario Kart World in favor of quality over compromise demonstrates a commitment to delivering the high standards fans expect. With a bold new vision and the technical power of the Switch 2 backing it, Mario Kart World looks poised to redefine the franchise for a new generation.