Mario Kart World: Focusing on the Mario Universe and the Developers Favorite Playable Character

Mario Kart World, the latest entry in the classic mascot racing series, has been making waves since its release. With larger, branching tracks, an open-world hub for players to explore at their leisure, and massive 24-player races, it's shaping up to be one of the biggest games in the series yet. The game's roster is also impressive, featuring 50 playable characters from across the Super Mario Bros. franchise.

However, one notable absence from Mario Kart World is any crossover content with non-Mario Nintendo properties. In an interview with Ouest France (via GamesRadar), producer Kosuke Yabuki explained why the developers felt that including crossover characters was unnecessary. "It didn't seem necessary to us, given everything we could already do with Mario," he stated. Yabuki was even asked if he ever considered adding a character from his last project before Mario Kart World, Arms, to which he replied, "Absolutely not!"

While the lack of crossover characters may have disappointed some fans, it's clear that the developers are focused on delivering a polished and complete experience within the Mario universe. The game has received a warm reception from players so far, and Yabuki even shared his favorite playable character in the game: the lovable bovine Cow. This newcomer has been dominating multiplayer lobbies, much to Yabuki and the development team's amusement.

Mario Kart World is on track to become one of the highest-rated games in the series and has been a blockbuster opening act for the new Nintendo Switch 2 console. There is currently no word on post-launch DLC aside from the possibility of a new 200cc engine class. However, it's possible that Nintendo could explore its catalog of iconic games and characters for future content, just like Sega is doing with Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds.

In the meantime, fans of the Mario universe can enjoy the latest addition to the series and look forward to what the future holds for Mario Kart World. The game's focus on delivering a polished and complete experience within the Mario universe is evident in its impressive roster of playable characters and its open-world hub for exploration. With its massive 24-player races and larger, branching tracks, Mario Kart World is sure to be a hit with both longtime fans and newcomers alike.