Brief Mario Kart footage appeared in Nintendo’s January 2025 Nintendo Switch 2 reveal trailer, but Nintendo did not call the game “Mario Kart 9.” The released game is Mario Kart World, a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive that launched on June 5, 2025.
What did Nintendo show in the Switch 2 reveal?
On January 16, 2025, Nintendo announced Nintendo Switch 2 and said it would share more details in a future Nintendo Direct. The announcement established the console reveal date; it did not identify a game called “Mario Kart 9.” Nintendo’s announcement is the official source for that timeline.
Contemporaneous coverage of the later game presentation described brief Mario Kart footage in January’s first-look trailer as a tease. That footage hinted at a new game, but did not confirm a numbered sequel. TechRadar’s April coverage provides that context.
What is the game actually called?
Nintendo announced Mario Kart World on April 2, 2025, and said it would launch with Nintendo Switch 2. Nintendo’s product, Direct, and release materials use Mario Kart World, not “Mario Kart 9.” The official name is therefore the one to use; the “9” in the earlier headline is unconfirmed sequel numbering. Nintendo’s April announcement confirms the name, platform, and launch date.
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![Mario Kart 8 Deluxe - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/517O3bI45YL._SL160_.jpg)
- Hit the road with the definitive version of Mario Kart 8 and play anytime, anywhere! Race your friends or battle them in a revised battle mode on new and returning battle courses
- Play locally in up to 4-player multiplayer in 1080p while playing in TV Mode. Every track from the Wii U version, including DLC, makes a glorious return
- Plus, the Inklings appear as all-new guest characters, along with returning favorites, such as King Boo, Dry Bones, and Bowser Jr.
- Players can choose a new Smart Steering feature which makes driving and staying on the track easy for novice players and kids even at 200cc
What is Mario Kart World, and where can you play it?
Mario Kart World is a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive released on June 5, 2025. Nintendo describes a connected world where routes link courses, with Grand Prix, Knockout Tour, Battle, and Free Roam modes. Its product page uses the promotional line “The world is your racetrack.” Nintendo’s US product page lists the game and its features; Nintendo’s June launch announcement confirms the release date.
How many players can play?
Nintendo states that races support up to 24 drivers. Its US product page lists these player options:
Rank #2
- Nuevos personajes: Inkling, Rey Boo, Huesitos y Bowsy
- Inclusi n de circuitos in ditos en el modo batalla
- Los pilotos cuentan con el volante inteligente, que ayuda a no salirse de la pista
- Hasta 8 pilotos en partidas de multijugador local
| Play type | Nintendo-stated capacity |
|---|---|
| Single-system play | 1–4 players |
| Local wireless | Up to 8 players |
| Online play | Up to 24 players |
These are capacities stated by Nintendo, not independent test results. See Nintendo’s product page for the listed play options.
Are a camera or wheel accessory required?
No. Nintendo identifies a compatible camera as an option for CameraPlay and video features; ordinary play does not require a camera. The Joy-Con 2 Wheel Set is also optional, for players who want a steering-style grip. Nintendo lists these accessories in its product information and April 17 Mario Kart World Direct announcement.
Rank #3
- Included is the following: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe - Nintendo Switch Game, 2x PremGear Steering Driving Wheels to use with your Joy-Con Controllers (NOT COMPATIBLE WITH SWITCH 2), PremGear 24 Slot Game card Case/Holder with 2 Slot MicroSD Memory Card Adapter and PremGear Quality Cleaning Cloth
- RACE ANYTIME, ANYWHERE! Hit the road with the definitive version of Mario Kart 8. Race your friends or battle them in a revised battle mode on new and returning battle courses
- Play locally in up to 4-player multiplayer in 1080p while playing in TV Mode. Every track from the Wii U version, including DLC, makes a glorious return
- Plus, the Inklings appear as all-new guest characters, along with returning favorites, such as King Boo, Dry Bones, and Bowser Jr.!
- Players can choose a new Smart Steering feature which makes driving and staying on the track easy for novice players and kids even at 200cc
What did the game and console cost at US launch?
Nintendo’s June 5, 2025 US launch announcement listed suggested retail prices of $449.99 for Nintendo Switch 2 and $79.99 for Mario Kart World. Those are dated US launch MSRP figures, not current prices or retailer quotes. Check Nintendo’s launch announcement for that original pricing context.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
