Mario Kart 9 Might Not be a “Slam Dunk” Switch 2 Release – Former Nintendo PR Managers

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Despite the uncertainty surrounding the release schedule of games alongside the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, it’s rumored that one of the highly anticipated titles to launch concurrently with the new console could be “Mario Kart 9“. However, former PR managers for Nintendo, Kit Ellis and Krysta Yang, have expressed doubts about the significance of “Mario Kart 9” in terms of its impact on Nintendo’s reputation, suggesting that fans might anticipate a bigger deal than it may ultimately be.

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In their latest video discussion, Ellis and Yang expressed doubts about the potential success of a new “Mario Kart” game launching alongside the Switch 2. They believe that even with its release, it may not achieve the level of popularity that “Mario Kart 8 Deluxe” did when it first came out on the Nintendo Switch. Furthermore, they don’t anticipate “Mario Kart 9” to have as significant an impact as a system seller like “Mario Kart 8 Deluxe” did in the past.

Ellis stated in the video, “There’s a widespread belief that ‘Mario Kart’ will be a home run, a game that will sell the new system. However, I believe you are correct because if we consider the current state of ‘Mario Kart,’ it differs from what has been seen before, and I am not convinced this transition is as successful as many people think.

Yang discussed how Nintendo typically unveils fresh games as flagship titles for their consoles, such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, which was a novelty even within the esteemed Zelda series. However, Breath of the Wild significantly altered almost every recognizable aspect for players accustomed to the franchise. In contrast, Mario Kart 9 may be seen as an enhancement over Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and is less likely to introduce groundbreaking gameplay changes that redefine the genre.

Yang commented, “It’s unusual for a console launch game to have such a notable history, which is not typical of Nintendo. Normally, their launch titles, such as Breath of the Wild, are revolutionary, groundbreaking games that offer something completely fresh and compelling, encouraging consumers to invest in the new hardware.

However, the case with “Mario Kart” is somewhat unique due to the remarkable success of “Mario Kart 8 Deluxe” by Nintendo, as she explained further.

Given that the Switch 2 will allow playing games from the original Switch via backward compatibility, Yang raised doubts about whether Nintendo could successfully persuade players to abandon their still-playable titles in favor of buying a new game, potentially causing confusion within the player base.

Yang wanted to know, what would make him feel compelled to buy the latest version of Mario Kart? Or, is it necessary to have a Switch 2 for the new Mario Kart?

Ellis said in response, “I believe some individuals might ponder, ‘I’ve been enjoying the I’ve been playing,’ and when Mom says, ‘Hey kids, we have at home…,’ they might look at this new box and wonder, ‘Maybe we don’t need this, Timmy.’

He went on to say, ‘I’m absolutely convinced this game will be amazing.’ He added, ‘Every Mario Kart game sells well, that much is certain. Yet, this specific game faces a steep challenge. That’s Nintendo’s usual aim: they always strive to surpass the previous version.’

“The challenge is formidable, as it’s almost impossible to surpass sales of 75 million units. This is true not only for the original console, but also for any potential successor, like the hypothetical Switch 2. In essence, achieving such sales figures will be a daunting task, as they have set themselves incredibly high goals.”

Though Nintendo hasn’t officially announced any launch games for the Switch 2 yet, it’s anticipated that Mario Kart 9 will be one of the major unveilings, as a new installment in the Mario Kart series was noticeably present in the Switch 2 announcement video. While more details might be revealed, it’s also speculated that Mario Kart 9 will offer larger online races with a greater number of participants.

Nintendo is slated to reveal more details about the Switch 2 during a Direct on April 2.

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2025-03-28 16:42