Mario Kart 9

Mario Kart Switch
Cover art
Developer(s)	Nintendo EPD
Publisher(s)	Nintendo
Director(s)	Kosuke Yabuki
Producer(s)	Yabuki Kosuke
Designer(s)	Yasuyuki Oyagi
Artist(s)	Yusuke Nakano
Composer(s)	Kenta Nagata
Series	Mario Kart
Platform(s)	Nintendo Switch
Release	March 3, 2017 (2017-03-03)
Genre(s)	Kart racing
Mode(s)	Single-player, multiplayer

Mario Kart Switch is a kart racing video game developed and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo Switch. It is an enhanced and expanded version of Mario Kart 8 (2014) and was released worldwide on 3 March 2017 as a launch title for the console. The game is part of the long-running Mario Kart series and was later re-released under the title Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

Mario Kart Switch builds upon the mechanics of its predecessor while introducing revised battle modes, additional characters, and expanded multiplayer functionality. The game supports both handheld and docked play, local wireless multiplayer, and online racing.

Upon release, the game received critical acclaim and achieved significant commercial success, becoming one of the best-selling titles on the Nintendo Switch.

Gameplay

Mario Kart Switch retains the core gameplay of the Mario Kart series, with players racing against computer-controlled or human opponents across themed circuits while utilising power-up items to gain an advantage. Players select from a roster of characters from the Mario franchise and customise their vehicles using different kart bodies, tyres, and gliders, each affecting handling, speed, and acceleration.

The game features multiple racing modes, including Grand Prix, Time Trials, VS Race, and Battle Mode. Races support up to twelve participants, with local split-screen, local wireless, and online multiplayer options available.

New to this version is the inclusion of revised Battle Mode mechanics, featuring dedicated battle arenas rather than repurposed race tracks. Battle modes include Balloon Battle, Shine Thief, Renegade Roundup, Bob-omb Blast, and Coin Runners. Players can hold two items simultaneously, and smart steering and auto-acceleration assist options are available for accessibility.

All downloadable content from Mario Kart 8, including crossover content from franchises such as The Legend of Zelda, Animal Crossing, and Splatoon, is included by default.

Development

Development of Mario Kart Switch was handled by Nintendo EPD, building directly on the foundation of Mario Kart 8. With the Nintendo Switch designed as a hybrid home and handheld console, the development team focused on ensuring stable performance across both play styles, targeting 60 frames per second in all modes.

The decision to include all previously released downloadable content was made to provide a comprehensive launch experience for early Switch adopters. Additional effort was placed on redesigning Battle Mode, which had been criticised in the Wii U version of the game.

The game was announced during the Nintendo Switch presentation in January 2017 and showcased as a key launch title intended to demonstrate the system’s local multiplayer capabilities.

Reception

Reception

Aggregate score

Aggregator	Score
Metacritic	92/100

Review scores

Publication	Score
Electronic Gaming Monthly	9/10
GameSpot	9/10
IGN	10/10

Mario Kart Switch received widespread critical acclaim upon release. Critics praised its refined gameplay, extensive content offering, and smooth performance across all modes. The improved Battle Mode was frequently cited as a major enhancement over the original version.

Some reviewers noted that the game offered limited brand-new content for players who had extensively played Mario Kart 8 on the Wii U, though this was often mitigated by the portability and expanded multiplayer options of the Nintendo Switch.

Commercial performance

Mario Kart Switch was a strong commercial success, selling over eight million copies within its first year. It quickly became the best-selling game on the Nintendo Switch and one of the highest-selling entries in the Mario Kart franchise.

The game continued to chart strongly throughout the Switch’s lifespan, benefitting from console bundles, word-of-mouth, and Nintendo’s long-term software sales strategy.

Legacy

Mario Kart Switch played a key role in establishing the Nintendo Switch’s early success, frequently being cited as one of the console’s defining titles. Its popularity led Nintendo to support the game with long-term updates and tournament events, and it served as the foundation for subsequent expansions and re-releases.

External links

• Official website