Why Isn’t It Called Mario Kart 9? Nintendo Explains the New Title and Game Evolution

If you’ve been wondering why Nintendo’s newest racing game isn’t titled Mario Kart 9, you’re not alone. Fans searching for “Why is Mario Kart World not called Mario Kart 9?” or “What’s new in Mario Kart World for Switch 2?” want answers — and Nintendo has finally provided them. The company revealed in a recent developer roundtable that the game’s new name reflects a bold shift in design philosophy. Rather than simply adding more courses as in previous sequels, Mario Kart World embraces an open-world format and next-level features that redefine the Mario Kart franchise for the Nintendo Switch 2. This approach marks a departure from the traditional numbered series, signaling a fresh and expansive experience that justifies the new title.

Next-Level Gameplay with Open-World Design and Bigger Races

Unlike Mario Kart 8, which offered more traditional race tracks and formats, Mario Kart World introduces an interconnected map that allows players to explore a vast, seamless racing environment. Nintendo producer Kosuke Yabuki explained that calling the game Mario Kart 9 would have implied a simple continuation. Instead, the new open-world design and gameplay innovations, such as doubling the maximum players in a single race from 12 to 24, demanded a distinct identity. This shift not only enhances multiplayer action but also leverages the enhanced hardware capabilities of the Nintendo Switch 2, which was essential for delivering smoother visuals and more complex environments.

From Switch Limitations to Switch 2 Innovations

Development initially began on the original Nintendo Switch, where the team faced significant challenges. Programming director Kenta Sato revealed that performance compromises—such as lowering resolution and frame rate—were considered to fit the ambitious design onto the older hardware. The transition to the more powerful Switch 2 was a game-changer, providing the processing power and graphical improvements needed to fully realize the open-world concept without sacrificing performance. Yabuki called this hardware upgrade “a ray of hope,” enabling Nintendo to elevate the Mario Kart experience to new heights.

Exciting Details: 200 Tracks, Worldbuilding, and Unexpected Characters

Beyond technical upgrades, Mario Kart World boasts a rich worldbuilding approach. The game will feature over 200 tracks to race on, offering unparalleled variety and replayability. An intriguing aspect discussed in the interview is the importance of food as a cultural element within the game’s universe, adding depth to the setting. Another highlight is the surprising inclusion of a character named Cow, who plays a pivotal role in the series lore, according to art director Masaaki Ishikawa. This unique addition hints at the creative freedom Nintendo is embracing in this new chapter of Mario Kart.

Why This Matters for Mario Kart Fans and Switch 2 Owners

For gamers eagerly awaiting the next big thing on the Nintendo Switch 2, Mario Kart World represents a significant evolution of a beloved franchise. Its fresh approach to game design, combined with high-definition graphics and expanded multiplayer modes, makes it a must-play title that goes beyond a traditional sequel. By dropping the number and adopting a name that reflects its global, immersive scope, Nintendo sets Mario Kart World apart as the future of racing games on its new console.