Summary
Following the jaw-dropping Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, revealing the anticipated successor console, Nintendo recently showcased theMario Kart WorldDirect, providing an in-depth look at the new racer, and one frame confirmed the return of a beloved guest character from the series. Guest racers are characters from a separate Nintendo franchise outside theSuper Mariouniverse, with past rosters including Link fromThe Legend of Zeldaand Isabelle fromAnimal Crossing.However, one previous guest has surprisingly made a comeback inMario Kart World.
Mario Kart Worldis scheduled to release in tandem with the Switch 2 on June 5, featured as a launch title that fans can purchase within a bundle. Featuring over 40 characters, this installment supports up to 24 players and includes new features like Dash Foods. Nintendo’s Direct confirmed a host of features being added to the upcoming Switch 2 racer, includingeight tracks that will be added inMario Kart World.
Despite the Direct confirming apopular character would return toMario Kart Worldas an itemonly, the showcase also teased the return of the beloved guest character R.O.B., but fans shouldn’t get their hopes up just yet. During theMario Kart WorldDirect, fans noticed a new bike within the “Yoshi’s” segment that paid homage to the robot from the Nintendo Entertainment System era. The red-and-white bike matches the colorway of the toy robot accessory that was first released in 1985, and R.O.B. (Robotic Operating Buddy) served as the final unlockable character inMario Kart DS. Unfortunately, the inclusion of the R.O.B. bike does not mean the robot will be added as a playable racer, but it does indicate the popular character is on Nintendo’s radar.
Mario Kart World Confirms R.O.B. Bike
After being spoiled with an exciting gameplay preview,Nintendo fans still held one major complaint aboutMario Kart World. Thankfully, much of the racer’s fandom was overjoyed to see R.O.B., or parts of R.O.B., featured in the franchise once again. Twitter users shared their excitement and noted the bike’s design was “fire.” However, a portion of robot fans thought it was an injustice to see R.O.B. reduced to bike parts.
Adding to the franchise’s blueprint, the Direct also confirmedMario Kart World’s game modes. Joining the return of Time Trials, VS Races, Team Races, Balloon Battle, and Coin Runners, the new title will also feature four main modes: Grand Prix, Knockout Tour, Free Roam, and Battle Mode. One of the standout modes from this list is Free Roam, presenting an exciting open world for players to explore.
