Tag: Mario Kart World

  • Costco Offers Mario Kart World & Switch Online Bundle at Great Price

    Costco Offers Mario Kart World & Switch Online Bundle at Great Price

    Key Takeaways

    1. Costco Canada leaked the Switch 2 price and is avoiding pre-order chaos, while U.S. Costco prepares for a special bundle release on June 5th.
    2. The bundle includes the Switch 2 console, a digital download of Mario Kart World, and a 12-month subscription to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack for a potential price of $499.99.
    3. The Mario Kart World game alone costs $79.99, making the Costco bundle a potentially significant savings option for gamers.
    4. Customers must have an annual Costco membership (ranging from $65 to $130) to access the deal, and the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack offer is only valid for new subscribers.
    5. Despite the appealing offer, past experiences suggest that Costco might still face significant crowds on release day.

    Costco Canada made news in February when it leaked information about the Switch 2’s price. Since that time, the store has avoided the frenzy surrounding pre-orders. However, it seems that U.S. Costco will release a special bundle when the console launches on June 5th. This package will come with the handheld console, a digital download of Mario Kart World, and a 12-month subscription to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. The price could make this Costco offer quite appealing, with unverified reports suggesting a cost of $499.99.

    Price and Offer Details

    The listing was first spotted by Wario64 on social media. Customers can get a year of Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack for $49.99. The popular Mario Kart World bundle, which many are considering for Switch 2 pre-orders, has a price tag of $499.99. Wario64 hinted that Costco members might see a discount dropping the price from $549.99 to $539.99. After reaching out, some customers mentioned that a lower price for the Switch 2 might be possible.

    Bundle Savings

    According to Famiboards and some Reddit users, the Costco bundle might be available for as low as $499.99. After receiving backlash for the pricing of certain Switch 2 games, this deal could be the best option for those looking to save. Just the Mario Kart World game costs $79.99, whether for physical or digital versions in the U.S. The Nintendo Switch Online offer adds extra value, offering more than just multiplayer gaming. Additionally, with the Expansion Pack, players can enjoy new GameCube titles that will be added to the service on June 5th.

    Membership and Limitations

    Even with the appealing offer, the Costco Switch 2 deal comes with some conditions. To avoid extra fees, customers must have an annual Costco membership, which ranges from $65 to $130. Furthermore, the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack bonus is only valid for new subscribers.

    Gamers who are annoyed by the limited pre-order options for the Switch 2 might think these requirements will keep the crowds away. However, Costco is not exempt from the chaos of release days, as seen in past incidents involving Pokémon cards.

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    Costco Offers Mario Kart World & Switch Online Bundle at Great Price

     

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  • Nintendo President Discusses No 3D Mario Game for Switch 2 Launch

    Nintendo President Discusses No 3D Mario Game for Switch 2 Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 has an impressive launch lineup featuring many popular third-party games.
    2. Gamers are disappointed by the lack of a 3D Mario game since Super Mario Odyssey, released eight years ago.
    3. Doug Bowser hinted at future Mario games, encouraging fans to “stay tuned.”
    4. Some analysts, like Krysta Yang, believe focusing on Mario Kart World may not be the best choice and suggest showcasing a new 3D open-world game instead.
    5. Over 20 games will launch with the Switch 2 on June 5th, but third-party titles dominate the lineup, leaving limited Nintendo offerings.

    The launch lineup for the Nintendo Switch 2 is quite impressive, featuring many well-known third-party games. However, some gamers are still unhappy about the absence of a 3D Mario game. Since Super Mario Odyssey was released on the Switch eight years ago, there has been no announcement for a sequel. Recently, when asked about the future of Mario games, Doug Bowser, the President of Nintendo of America, provided a glimmer of hope for fans. He also conveyed that the variety of games available for the Switch 2 will keep players entertained for quite a while.

    Nintendo’s Response

    When CNN inquired why a Mario platformer hasn’t been mentioned yet, Bowser urged Nintendo enthusiasts to “stay tuned.” He suggested that while there are plenty of games for the Switch 2, Mario, the iconic plumber, will still play a significant role in the new handheld’s library.

    Mixed Reactions

    As it became clear that Mario Kart World would be the main focus for the upcoming Nintendo Direct on April 2nd, not all industry analysts were in favor. Former Nintendo PR Manager Krysta Yang believed that putting the spotlight on the kart racing game was a misstep. On her Kit & Krysta podcast, she proposed that Nintendo should showcase a 3D open-world game that could utilize the enhanced specs of the Switch 2. A prime example she mentioned was The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, which inspired many Wii U players to switch to the original model.

    A Change of Heart

    After the complete reveal of the Switch 2 launch titles, Yang began to recognize the variety of choices available. Even though Mario Kart World might not feature a 120 fps option, its off-road mechanics introduce fresh elements to the previous racing games. Still, Donkey Kong Bananza, scheduled to launch on July 17th, will have the responsibility of representing the 3D platforming genre. Over 20 games are set to debut with the Switch 2 on June 5th, but it’s worth noting that third-party titles overshadow a limited selection of Nintendo’s offerings.

    Unfortunately, Bowser did not provide specific details on when Super Mario Odyssey 2 or another 3D Mario title might be released on the Switch 2. Until that highly anticipated moment arrives, gamers will have to settle for racing against Mario on the tracks.

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    Nintendo President Discusses No 3D Mario Game for Switch 2 LaunchNintendo President Discusses No 3D Mario Game for Switch 2 Launch

     

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  • Strong Switch 2 Launch Titles Boosted by Ex-Nintendo Praise

    Strong Switch 2 Launch Titles Boosted by Ex-Nintendo Praise

    Key Takeaways

    1. Concerns about insufficient marketing details for the Switch 2, particularly regarding price and game information.
    2. Nintendo is focusing on a main first-party game, with Mario Kart World featured prominently in marketing and bundles.
    3. The Switch 2 will launch with over 20 titles, including enhanced versions of popular games and GameCube classics for subscribers.
    4. Notable third-party games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Hogwarts Legacy will be available at launch, supported by the Switch 2’s upgraded specs.
    5. Tariffs and unclear pricing and pre-order details may dampen excitement for North American customers.

    Kit & Krysta have expressed some concerns about Nintendo’s approach to marketing its upcoming console. A lot of feedback has pointed out the insufficient details regarding the price of the Switch 2 and the games. Nevertheless, during a recent podcast, the former Nintendo PR managers commended the variety of launch titles for the Switch 2. While there’s a strong focus on third-party games, the overall selection is broad enough to attract those willing to buy early.

    Single First-Party Focus

    The podcast highlighted that, similar to the original Switch, Nintendo is centering its attention on a main first-party game. Back in 2017, pre-launch videos prominently featured The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Fast forward eight years, and this time, Mario Kart World takes the spotlight and is included in a Switch 2 bundle. Unlike with the previous console, where Nintendo had to persuade Wii U owners to switch to a hybrid handheld, the launch games for Switch 2 aim to convert existing Switch users to an improved model. Another plus is backward compatibility, which was something the Wii U didn’t offer.

    More Launch Titles

    Reflecting on the Switch’s launch, there were nine initial games available, or ten if you count the two Shovel Knight titles as separate. For the Switch 2, buyers will have over 20 options to choose from. Among the titles, there are Switch 2 Edition games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, now with enhanced performance. Additionally, those who subscribe to Nintendo Switch Online+ Expansion Pack can enjoy new GameCube classics.

    Third-Party Games and Tariff Issues

    Notable third-party games, such as Cyberpunk 2077 and Hogwarts Legacy, will also be launched alongside Nintendo’s new console. With the upgraded specs of the Switch 2, it seems that resource-heavy games are finally feasible. However, Kit & Krysta pointed out that many of these titles have been around on other platforms for a while now.

    The excitement around Nintendo’s handheld has been slightly dampened by the effects of tariffs. Even though the launch titles for the Switch 2 are impressive, the pricing and pre-order details remain unclear for customers in North America.

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  • Mario Kart World Direct Reveals New Characters, Tracks, and Features

    Mario Kart World Direct Reveals New Characters, Tracks, and Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game Reveal and Features: Mario Kart World was revealed on April 2nd, showcasing new characters, tracks, and a rewind feature that excited fans.

    2. Pricing Concerns: The game is priced at $80, leading to criticism, but Nintendo aims to prove it’s the most comprehensive Mario Kart experience.

    3. New Locations: The game includes new locations like Salty Salty Speedway and Boo Cinema, with Rainbow Road unlockable after completing all Grand Prix races.

    4. Gameplay Innovations: New items and techniques, such as a hammer for attacks and a charge jump, enhance gameplay, along with a rewind feature available in solo modes.

    5. Pre-Order Demand: Despite price concerns, pre-orders for the Switch 2 console and Mario Kart World Bundle are selling out quickly.

    After its reveal on April 2nd during the Nintendo Direct, fans quickly learned key details about Mario Kart World. The subsequent Treehouse presentations offered more insights about the Switch 2 game. However, Nintendo kept some surprises for the recently finished Mario Kart World Direct. Among the new characters, tracks, and modes, the addition of a rewind feature likely elicited the most excitement.

    Pricing Concerns

    Facing criticism regarding its $80 price tag, Nintendo was probably eager to demonstrate why this game is touted as the most comprehensive Mario Kart experience ever. This kart racing game introduces elements of open-world and off-road gameplay. In the Grand Prix mode, players can explore off-track paths that connect four different courses. The Mario Kart World Direct highlighted the expansive map, allowing online players to gather with friends represented by icons.

    New Locations and Features

    Some of the new locations showcased during the Nintendo Direct include Salty Salty Speedway, a haunted Boo Cinema, and Starview Peak. Nintendo teased that finishing all Grand Prix races would unlock the beloved Rainbow Road. Additionally, players will have the option of racing during both day and night in Mario Kart World.

    The Nintendo presentation also unveiled new characters, including Goomba, Spike, and Cow. Viewers were treated to intricate character designs for both familiar and new racers, like Mario and Peach, complete with some elaborate costumes.

    Gameplay Innovations

    In the heat of the races, characters can utilize new items such as a hammer that can be used to attack or obstruct rivals. Techniques like a charge jump require practice, but they can be used to leap over opponents, evade attacks, or even ride along walls. Borrowing an idea from Forza Horizon, players can make use of a rewind feature if things go wrong. However, this somewhat debated feature is only available in solo and free-roaming modes.

    Unsurprisingly, the Mario Kart World Direct was once again flooded with “Drop the Price” remarks. Even so, pre-orders for the Switch 2 console and the Mario Kart World Bundle continue to sell out.

    Mario Kart World Direct Reveals New Characters, Tracks, and FeaturesMario Kart World Direct Reveals New Characters, Tracks, and Features
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  • Nintendo Rep Cautions on High Price of Mario Kart World DLC

    Nintendo Rep Cautions on High Price of Mario Kart World DLC

    Key Takeaways

    1. High Game Pricing: Mario Kart World is priced at a minimum of $80, adding to the $450 console cost, which exceeds many gamers’ expectations.
    2. DLC Concerns: There are worries about potential DLC that may reuse old characters and tracks, raising questions about the value of new content.
    3. Need for Transparency: Former Nintendo PR Manager Krysta Yang stressed the importance of Nintendo being clear about future costs for Mario Kart World content.
    4. Competing Pricing Strategies: Unlike other companies that bundle past titles with DLC, Nintendo is charging separately for the Expansion Pass on new versions of existing games.
    5. Customer Anxiety: Gamers are concerned about potential tariff increases affecting the price and pre-orders for the Switch 2, hoping Mario Kart World will offer long-lasting entertainment without extra costs.

    Gamers are not happy about the pricing of some Switch 2 games, like Mario Kart World. This kart racing game is priced at a minimum of $80, which is in addition to the $450 cost of the console itself, making it slightly pricier than what many had expected. There are worries too about DLC that might reuse old characters and tracks. In a recent podcast, Krysta Yang, a former PR Manager at Nintendo, warned that launching the game with extra paid content could be a mistake.

    Past Support for Mario Kart

    Mario Kart 8 has seen DLC since its days on the Wii U. The Switch’s Mario Kart 8 Deluxe included this content and brought in new racers, tracks, and modes. Alongside some free updates, the $24.99 Booster Course Pack gave the game a fresh boost. However, there’s no confirmation that Nintendo will offer DLC when Mario Kart World hits the market. Still, fans are eagerly looking forward to the Mario Kart World Direct on April 17th to get more details on what might be in store.

    Transparency is Key

    In the Kit & Krysta podcast, Yang emphasized the importance of Nintendo being clear about the costs of future Mario Kart World content. Bill Trinen, Vice President of Nintendo of America, hinted that the game would have plenty to offer even without DLC. He suggested that this game will be the most comprehensive Mario Kart experience so far. Just the open-world gameplay might be enough to encourage players to spend $80.

    Nintendo is also under fire for the prices of DLC for other Switch 2 titles. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild will have a version that utilizes the new console’s enhanced specs. However, the $70 Switch 2 version won’t come with any bonus content that was released earlier. Instead, fans need to buy the Expansion Pass for an extra $20. While other companies often bundle past titles with DLC when they re-release them, Nintendo is choosing a different route.

    Concerns Over Pricing and Pre-orders

    Customers are already anxious with tariffs possibly increasing the price of the Switch 2 and causing delays in pre-orders. It is hoped that Mario Kart World will provide entertainment for players for months, if not years, without requiring additional spending.

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    Nintendo Rep Cautions on High Price of Mario Kart World DLC
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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Specs Could Enable 120 FPS in Mario Kart World

    Nintendo Switch 2 Specs Could Enable 120 FPS in Mario Kart World

    Key Takeaways

    1. Concerns over high pricing for Mario Kart World may influence future game pricing models.
    2. The new Switch 2 could impress critics with enhanced performance, including a potential 120 fps mode.
    3. Mario Kart World may feature a resolution of 1440p and maintain consistent 60 fps gameplay, with options for higher frame rates.
    4. Despite some visual improvements, advanced lighting features like ray-tracing are unlikely, though shadows and water effects have improved.
    5. Mario Kart World’s fast-paced gameplay and open-world elements could justify its high price and boost sales on the Switch 2.

    The high price of Mario Kart World has raised concerns that upcoming games might adopt a similar pricing model. Nevertheless, the new Switch 2 title could change the minds of critics with its enhanced performance. Digital Foundry has performed an in-depth technical analysis of Mario Kart World using available footage. Although some improvements over the last installment are minor, a mention of a 120 fps mode has caught a lot of attention.

    Specs That Stand Out

    Given the buzz surrounding Mario Kart World, it’s no surprise that it highlights new features of the Switch 2. During the Nintendo Direct on April 2nd, players discovered that the new console would allow frame rates beyond 60 fps. This announcement confirmed earlier leaks about its surprisingly powerful screen. Digital Foundry suggests that Mario Kart World might be among the first games on the Switch 2 to offer a 120 fps option.

    Gameplay and Resolution

    Mario Kart 8 Deluxe operates at 1080p and 60 fps when docked. Digital Foundry believes that most of the gameplay footage of Mario Kart World displays 1440p, especially in docked mode. Similar to its predecessor, the new game might maintain a consistent 60 fps, but it could also feature a setting for higher frame rates. It’s uncertain what resolution players would have to settle for when playing at 120 fps. Additionally, Digital Foundry points out that photo mode is capped at 30 fps.

    The assessment of Switch 2’s performance is not as optimistic regarding lighting enhancements. Since the visual effects still appear to be pre-calculated, features like ray-tracing or screen-space reflections seem unlikely. However, shadows do look more realistic, and water effects have improved as well. The analysis also commended Mario Kart World for its intricate character models and fluid animations.

    Market Impact

    Prior to Nintendo’s formal announcement, some insiders were skeptical about whether Mario Kart World would be a major seller. However, it seems to leverage the improved specs of the Switch 2 effectively. With its fast-paced racing gameplay, the title is poised to highlight the console’s responsive display. The introduction of an open-world driving experience and a wealth of content may also persuade players to invest $80 or more.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2: Zelda Tears of the Kingdom Costs $80

    Nintendo Switch 2: Zelda Tears of the Kingdom Costs $80

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Game Pricing: Nintendo Switch 2 games like Mario Kart World will cost $79.99 for physical copies and $69.99 for digital versions.

    2. Older Game Pricing: The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom will also be priced at $79.99, while Breath of the Wild is $10 less than that, maintaining a higher price than its original Switch 1 version.

    3. Upgrade Option: Players who own Breath of the Wild or Tears of the Kingdom can upgrade to the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition for $10, which includes improved graphics and smartphone app integration.

    4. Variable Pricing Strategy: Not all new games will have a $79.99 price tag; pricing will vary based on what Nintendo believes is appropriate for each title.

    5. Example of Lower Pricing: Donkey Kong Bonanza is priced lower at $59.99 for digital and $69.99 for physical, showing that Nintendo has flexibility in game pricing.

    Just a few days ago, Nintendo made an announcement about prices for certain Nintendo Switch 2 games. For instance, Mario Kart World will be available for $79.99 if you buy the physical game cartridge. The digital version, on the other hand, will cost $69.99. Interestingly, this new pricing strategy also affects older games. Nintendo confirmed that The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom in its physical form for the Nintendo Switch 2 will be priced at $79.99 or €89.99 in Europe.

    Pricing Details

    In comparison, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is priced $10 less, making it still $10 more than the original price for the Switch 1. Other titles like Kirby and the Forgotten Land and Super Mario Party Jamboree will also see a price tag of $79.99 for the Nintendo Switch 2. For gamers who already possess The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild or Tears of the Kingdom, there’s an option to get an upgrade pack for $10. This upgrade gives access to the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, which features improved graphics and better integration with the Nintendo Switch smartphone app.

    Upgrade Fees and Game Pricing

    It’s still a bit unclear if the same upgrade cost will apply to games that have new gameplay features, such as Kirby. Nevertheless, Nintendo points out that not every new game will carry a price of $79.99. Instead, the cost of each title will be individually determined based on what Nintendo thinks is suitable. This pricing method is already shown with Donkey Kong Bonanza, which has a price of $59.99 for the digital version and $69.99 for the physical one, making it $10 cheaper than Mario Kart World.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Game Prices Boost Digital Purchases, Analyst Says

    Nintendo Switch 2 Game Prices Boost Digital Purchases, Analyst Says

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox, PlayStation, and PC gamers are increasingly accepting digital gaming, while Switch fans are slower to shift from physical cartridges.
    2. Analysts are raising concerns about the high prices of Switch 2 games, with physical copies costing more than digital versions.
    3. Digital distribution is more cost-effective for Nintendo, especially due to rising manufacturing costs for physical cartridges.
    4. Nintendo is encouraging digital purchases with new features like virtual game cards, allowing some transferability between consoles.
    5. Other gaming companies, like Sony and Microsoft, may follow Nintendo’s lead and consider phasing out physical media due to rising costs.

    Xbox, PlayStation, and PC gamers have slowly started to accept digital gaming. In contrast, fans of the Switch have been a bit slower to make this shift, still building their collections of cartridges. Now, analysts are weighing in as consumers raise concerns about the pricing of several Switch 2 games. One expert suggests that Nintendo wants to encourage more players to move away from physical media.

    Analyst Insights

    MIDiA Games Industry Analyst Rhys Elliott has voiced his thoughts after the announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2 pricing. He pointed out the unexpectedly high prices for certain Switch 2 games, such as Mario Kart World. This popular kart racing game is going to an open-world format, but that freedom comes with a higher price tag. In certain regions, the physical version of Mario Kart World will cost 10 Euros more than the digital version. Elliott believes this is a tactic to cut down on manufacturing expenses during a tough economic climate.

    Digital Distribution Benefits

    Due to the high costs of making cartridges and their cases, digital distribution is a more cost-effective option for Nintendo. Some industry insiders suggest that the company might be using pricier 3D NAND flash memory for the Switch 2, which could lead to even higher costs. Additionally, the launch of virtual game cards shows how Nintendo is attempting to facilitate the shift towards digital purchases. With some restrictions, players can transfer their downloads between consoles similarly to how they would with physical cartridges.

    Elliott also noted that Nintendo doesn’t profit from the resale of physical media. The compact Switch cartridges are cheap to ship, making them popular on auction platforms. Unfortunately, Nintendo only benefits from the initial sale of these titles. In contrast, while virtual game cards can be shared, digital games are more closely linked to online accounts.

    Future Trends

    It might not be long before Sony and Microsoft take a page from Nintendo’s playbook. New tariffs in the U.S. are increasing the costs of manufacturing and importing consoles and game discs. Naturally, Nintendo’s competitors also have the choice to completely eliminate physical media from their offerings.

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    Nintendo Switch 2 Game Prices Boost Digital Purchases, Analyst Says

     

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  • Mario Kart World Revealed in Switch 2 Direct with Gameplay Teases

    Mario Kart World Revealed in Switch 2 Direct with Gameplay Teases

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new Mario Kart installment is titled Mario Kart World and features gameplay on and off traditional racing tracks.
    2. New gameplay mechanics include characters changing outfits, executing multiple tricks, and grinding on rails, reminiscent of Sonic Racing games.
    3. The game will feature 24 racers per race, with a mix of confirmed and unconfirmed characters, including Hammer Bro and Charging Chuck.
    4. Two new game modes are introduced: an open-world driving mode for discovering optimized routes and a Knockout Mode that eliminates players who fall below a certain rank.
    5. New vehicle types and design elements, such as a jet ski and wings attached to vehicles, are hinted at in the trailer, replacing traditional gliders.

    The Nintendo Switch 2 Direct has just aired, revealing the title of the new installment in the Mario Kart series. The sequel is named Mario Kart World. This upcoming game will include gameplay that takes place both off the traditional racing tracks and on them, although many details remain unclear even after the presentation. Fortunately, there is another broadcast scheduled for two weeks after the Switch 2 Direct, specifically a Mario Kart World Direct, which aims to provide additional information beyond what was initially shared.

    New Gameplay Features

    In the trailer, some intriguing elements were showcased, like characters changing outfits and possibly executing multiple tricks in a row. Right from the start of the clips, a notable feature was introduced: several characters appeared to be grinding on rails and jumping onto walls for tricks. This level of dynamic play is something we haven’t quite seen before in Mario Kart. It seems the developers at Nintendo could be drawing inspiration from the Sonic Racing games, as the wall driving and multiple air tricks resemble mechanics found in those titles. While specifics on how everything functions are still unclear, viewers can check out the teaser image and full trailer linked below.

    Character Roster and Game Modes

    Mario Kart World will host 24 racers in each race, featuring a mix of both confirmed and yet-to-be-confirmed characters. The trailer displayed a wide array of characters, including some lesser-known ones like Hammer Bro and Charging Chuck. Additionally, two new modes are set to debut in Mario Kart World. One is an open-world driving mode for each track, allowing players to discover optimized routes for their races. The other is Knockout Mode, where players race through different tracks while trying to maintain a leading position. Checkpoints will indicate a player’s rank, and if they fall below the required ranking, they’ll be eliminated from the race.

    Vehicles and More Surprises

    Fans might spot several unconfirmed vehicle types in the trailer, such as a jet ski featured in the thumbnail and Rosalina on a snowmobile during the scenes. Moreover, there’s a new design element with wings attached to vehicles as they soar through the air, replacing the gliders that have been a staple since Mario Kart 7.

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    Mario Kart World Revealed in Switch 2 Direct with Gameplay Teases
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