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The Uncertain Future of Mario Kart

How Nintendo's beloved franchise faces tough choices in its next installment
The Uncertain Future of Mario Kart

Highlights

  • Nintendo is likely developing the next Mario Kart title, given the series' popularity and consistent release schedule.
  • Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is currently the most successful game in the franchise, potentially making it difficult for fans to move on to a new installment.
  • The next Mario Kart game will need to introduce innovative mechanics and surpass the content of its predecessor in order to make a significant impact.

It's highly probable that Nintendo is currently in the process of developing the next Mario Kart title. The series has been a staple for Nintendo, and it's almost certain that a new installment is on the horizon. However, the studio will face a considerable challenge in capturing the interest and enthusiasm of fans for the upcoming release.

Given the franchise's track record, the next Mario Kart game would likely achieve success regardless of its content. However, with the monumental success of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, convincing fans to transition to a new installment may prove to be a daunting task. Just as with Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, once a franchise reaches its pinnacle, surpassing it becomes a formidable feat.

The Unrivaled Success of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Has Become the Definitive Mario Kart Experience

Since its launch in 2014 during the Wii U era, Mario Kart 8 became the cornerstone of the franchise, offering an exceptional kart racing experience. The game was further enhanced with downloadable content (DLC), a first for the series, and went on to become the best-selling Wii U game, leading to its adaptation for the Nintendo Switch as Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe included all DLC, improvements to the original game, and new features, which resonated well with fans, making it the best-selling game for the Switch. Surprisingly, Nintendo announced a new wave of DLC in 2022, significantly expanding the game through the Booster Course Pass, effectively doubling the track count and reintroducing fan-favorite courses along with new characters.

This expansion solidified Mario Kart 8 Deluxe as the most extensive Mario Kart experience to date, drawing comparisons to the monumental success of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.

The Challenge of Mario Kart 9

Now that the DLC for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe has seemingly concluded, attention turns to the next steps for the franchise. While Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit offered a unique twist, fans are eagerly anticipating the next mainline installment. With Mario Kart 8 Deluxe reigning as the premier kart racer, the trajectory for the next installment appears uncertain.

The impending release of Mario Kart 9 presents a significant challenge in making a lasting impression. If it offers less content than its predecessor, fans may hesitate to transition. Therefore, the introduction of innovative mechanics and fresh gameplay elements is imperative to overshadow its predecessor.

Nintendo must tread carefully to ensure that Mario Kart remains relevant. The exceptional DLC for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe sets a high standard, placing pressure on Mario Kart 9 to deliver a groundbreaking experience, and hopefully, it will rise to the occasion.

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