I’m convinced that Mario Kart 9 has been confirmed as the first Nintendo Switch 2 game

Key Takeaways:

• Speculation of Mario Kart 9 Debut on Switch 2
  Fans believe the Switch 2 trailer hints at Mario Kart 9.

• Unfamiliar Racing Tracks Noted in Trailer
  The showcased tracks don’t match existing courses.

• Updated Character Designs Observed
  Characters like Donkey Kong appear with new looks.

• Increased Number of On-Screen Racers
  More racers than before suggest enhanced gameplay.

• Success of Mario Kart 8 Supports Sequel Logic
  Over 73 million sales make a sequel a strategic move.

As Nintendo enthusiasts dissect the recent reveal trailer for the Nintendo Switch 2, whispers of a new installment in the beloved Mario Kart series are gaining momentum. Subtle yet significant clues within the trailer have led fans to speculate that Mario Kart 9 may be on the horizon, poised to become the first game for the upcoming console.

Unveiling Hidden Clues

Toward the end of the trailer, iconic characters—Mario, Luigi, Peach, Toad, Bowser, Donkey Kong, and others—race through an expansive desert plain. While at first glance the scene resembles familiar courses from Mario Kart 8, a closer look reveals something different. “The more I looked at that course, the less I felt I recognized it,” notes one observer, echoing the sentiments of many who couldn’t place the track in any existing game, including recent expansion packs.

Fresh Faces and Designs

Adding to the intrigue is the noticeable update in character design. Donkey Kong, in particular, appears with a revamped look that stands out from previous iterations. This observation hasn’t gone unnoticed, with several fans pointing out the differences. Such changes often signify a new game rather than an update, fueling further speculation about an impending sequel.

A Crowd on the Track

Perhaps the most compelling clue lies in the number of racers visible on-screen. The trailer showcases 15 characters racing simultaneously, surpassing the 12-racer limit established in Mario Kart 8. Rumors suggest that this number could climb as high as 24 in the new game. An increased racer count could signify enhanced processing capabilities of the Switch 2, promising a more dynamic and chaotic racing experience.

The Logic Behind a Sequel

From a strategic standpoint, launching Mario Kart 9 alongside the Switch 2 makes perfect sense for Nintendo. “With more than 73 million confirmed sales, Mario Kart 8 and its Deluxe Edition are the fifth best-selling video games ever,” the original article states. Such staggering success establishes a solid fan base eager for a new installment, potentially boosting the new console’s adoption rates.

Embracing Backward Compatibility

While the prospect of a new Mario Kart is exciting, players can also take comfort in Nintendo Switch 2’s backward compatibility. “Almost all original Nintendo Switch games will be playable on Nintendo Switch 2,” ensuring that fans’ existing game libraries remain accessible. This feature allows players to continue honing their skills on Mario Kart 8 while anticipating what the new edition might bring.

A Future of Possibilities

As the gaming community eagerly awaits official announcements, the clues gathered from the reveal trailer provide ample grounds for excitement. Whether these hints materialize into Mario Kart 9 or not, the anticipation surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2 continues to build, promising a thrilling future for fans of the franchise.

Check out our Nintendo Switch 2 live coverage for more info as we get it.