The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to receive the next entry in theMario Kartseries, withMario Kart Worldserving as one of the upcoming console’s launch titles. WithMario Kart 8 Deluxereigning as the highest-selling Switch game, it’s not surprising to see the Switch 2 debut withMario Kart Worldat launch. However, what is surprising is that this release breaks a major trend for Nintendo consoles, setting the Switch 2’s launch up to be one for the ages.
One of the hottest topics among fans leading up to the console’s reveal was predicting the launch line-up for the Switch 2, with many fans anticipating that a newMariogame would make an appearance. Although something likeSuper Mario Odyssey 2or another mainline 3DMariogame seemed most likely, thereveal ofMario Kart Worldand its unique take on the kart racing franchise is more than welcome. WithMario Kart World, the Nintendo Switch 2 forgoes the pattern that the franchise had followed previously by being the firstMario Kartgame to launch day one on a new Nintendo console.
3DS
Switch 2
June 05, 2025
While someMario Karttitles have been released in the same launch year as a new Nintendo console, such asMario Kart: Super Circuiton the Game Boy Advance andMario Kart 7on the 3DS, the series tends to aim for a mid-generation release.Mario Kartis one of Nintendo’s most popular spin-off series, but hasn’t typically been treated as a system seller in the way that the mainlineMarioseries has. However, with thesuccess ofMario Kart 8 Deluxe, it seems Nintendo has decided to go all-in on the potential the franchise has to carry the Switch 2’s launch and putMario Kart Worldin the spotlight.
Mario Kart TourandMario Kart Live: Home Circuitare not included in this analysis because they don’t fit into the coreMario Kartseries. Regardless, they do not impact the trend of the series release schedule.
Mario Kart World Seems to Be Breaking the Mold for Nintendo in More Ways than One
A console’s slate of games available at launch has the important task of convincing gamers of the need to pick up the new hardware the day it releases, and the Switch set the bar high by releasingThe Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wildalongside it. As a keylaunch title for the Nintendo Switch 2,Mario Kart Worldwill need to make waves to entice fans to adopt the new console. With the game’s controversial price tag, this feat could be more difficult to achieve than past launch titles have.
However,Mario Kart Worlddoes have an ace up its sleeve in the form of its open-world driving gameplay, adopting the same approach thatZelda: Breath of the Wildsaw success with. Still, it may be a lot to expect a thriving online racing community to develop around a brand-new console at launch, especially when the bar for entry is high with theSwitch 2’s pricepoint. The Switch 2 does have the benefit of its new social features, with the implementation of voice chat and screen sharing that could make a multiplayer title likeMario Kart Worldthe ideal way for players to connect over the Switch 2 at launch.
