10 Mario Characters We Need to See in the Next Mario Kart Game!

A sneak peek at the upcoming Mario Kart game was showcased during the debut trailer for the Switch 2. This game seems to draw inspiration from Super Mario Bros. Wonder, suggesting that the broader Mario universe might be heading in this fresh direction. In Mario Kart 8 (with Mario Kart DS preceding it to a lesser extent), the concept of non-Mario characters joining the series was first introduced.

Given the widespread fame of the series, it appears that using it as a promotional tool across different platforms is almost inevitable. However, it’s crucial to preserve the essence of the title and expand the roster with characters from the broader Mario universe. This might include those who didn’t feature in Mario Kart 8 or its DLC. While some of these newcomers may have played roles before, others would be entirely fresh additions to the franchise.

10. Donkey Kong Jr.

A Mario Kart Veteran

Previous Playable Appearances: Super Mario Kart and Mario Kart Tour

Hey there, fellow gaming enthusiast! You might not know this, but I’m proud to say that I, Donkey Kong Jr., was one of the original racers in the iconic Mario Kart series, even before the legendary Donkey Kong himself made his debut. Nowadays, I’ve sort of taken a back seat, possibly because of the revamp of the Donkey Kong character and his connection with Mario.

The Donkey Kong you know from “Donkey Kong Country” and the game that bears his name are actually two different Kongs. The Kong from “Country” seems to be the one currently in action within the series, while Cranky Kong is believed to be the original, more mischievous Donkey Kong. Given that Cranky is my grandfather, it’s safe to assume I’m probably his son rather than his offspring. It can feel a bit strange discussing this while staying true to my character!

Furthermore, a fresh, smaller Kong character now assists Donkey Kong, while Diddy Kong stepped in as his partner during the game Double Dash. Interestingly, in Mario Kart Tour, the original intended racer, Kong Jr., was brought back, albeit briefly, and reinstated to his 16-bit form. This unexpected representation was both amusing and served as a heartfelt tribute to the initial Mario Kart game, making it enjoyable to witness again.

9. Professor E. Gadd

A Tinkering Inventor

Previous Playable Appearances: None

Professor Elvin Gadd is a character who often lends his support across different versions of the series, stemming from the Luigi’s Mansion franchise. In ghost-hunting escapades, he equips Luigi with the necessary inventions to excel in this field. He has also featured prominently in two installments of the Mario and Luigi games, notably in Partners in Time. Outside these appearances, he is frequently mentioned as an inventor of various devices, like the F.L.U.D.D in Super Mario Sunshine. You’ll find him popping up occasionally in other Mario games too.

Some of his inventions have managed to make their way into the Mario Kart series. For instance, the Poltergust 4000, an advanced version of the Poltergust 3000 from Luigi’s Mansion, serves as a functioning kart in this game, unlike the other models which primarily hunt ghosts. Additionally, the CPU opponent Robo Mario from the Mario Kart GP series is another creation by E. Gadd. If E. Gadd were to appear in the main series, it would be a significant full-circle moment, given his past contributions.

8. King Bob-Omb

A Beloved Boss

Previous Playable Appearances: Mario Kart Tour

King Bob-Omb, often referred to as Big Bob-omb, is a notable character introduced in the game Super Mario 64, where he first appeared as the game’s initial boss. This colossal explosive creature with an iconic design has been featured as both an enemy and hazard, or simply as a background character across the broader Mario universe. For the first time, he made his appearance as a playable character in Mario Kart Tour. Similar to characters such as Petey Pirahna and King Boo, King Bob-omb represents a more distinct, larger, and interactive version of a recurring enemy within the Mario series.

Just like Piranha Plants and Boos, Bob-ombs are well-known characters not just in the vast Mario universe but also specifically within the realm of Mario Kart. Their debut was designed to establish them as an item or stage hazard, which fits perfectly. Considering their popularity, introducing the Bob-omb king back into the main Mario Kart series could be a fascinating addition.

7. Prince Florian

An Usher of the New Era

Previous Playable Appearances: None

In simpler terms, Prince Florian is a character in the game Super Mario Bros. Wonder, who functions as a secondary figure. He sports helpful badges on his head that help the player during their various journeys within the game, and he even rides along with them. Given the more casual, animated style rumored for Mario Kart 9, it seems fitting to include a character from the Mario series known for this style in the game as well.

In addition to his other qualities, Florian’s compact stature and build may also make him a suitable option, as he can effectively work alongside structures that are typically considered less common due to their unusual dimensions.

6. Mallow

A Magical Cloud Child

Previous Playable Appearances: None

In the game “Super Mario RPG: Legend of Seven Stars”, Mallow makes his initial appearance as one of its unique characters who are exclusive to this specific title. Originally, he was the royal figurehead of Nimbus Land but got lost and was later found by the Wise Frog, who took him in as a surrogate grandchild, leaving Mallow uncertain about his background. In the course of the game, Mallow joins forces with Mario, serving as his first ally within the storyline. As time progresses, Mallow uncovers the truth regarding himself and later on, hints suggest that he may have once again assumed the role of the prince of Nimbus Land.

The distinctive personality of Mallow (alongside Geno) and the updated version of Super Mario RPG could make them intriguing options for a future edition of Mario Kart. However, since the game’s ownership situation is uncertain, it would be wise for the franchise to broaden its character pool by incorporating characters from other Mario games, including the RPG series, into the Mario Kart universe.

5. King K. Rool

An Iconic Enemy

Previous Playable Appearances: None

In earlier versions of Donkey Kong Country, King K. Rool is often seen as the series’ most memorable villain, even though he doesn’t appear as a main antagonist in more recent games. However, his influence stretches beyond his original realm, with him making a comeback as a playable character in Super Smash Bros Ultimate. Similar to other characters from Donkey Kong Country, King K. Rool also has a brief stint as a rogue character in one Mario game – specifically, Mario Super Sluggers.

In this context, K. Rool, along with his followers, the Kremlings, are essentially members of the DK Wilds, a squad overseen by Donkey Kong’s adversary. K. Rool stands out as a distinctive figure within the broader Mario universe, offering an intriguing spin on the narrative. As you ponder the variety of characters introduced, some hailing from different series, it could be captivating to include characters that technically belong to the Mario series but are not directly tied to the main character, Mario, adding depth and complexity to the storyline.

4. Strawlow

Star Sprite Ambassador

Previous Playable Appearances: None

In later iterations of the “Mario and Luigi” series, this star sprite plays a significant role, appearing in three different games. Throughout these appearances, she has assisted characters such as Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and even Bowser. She stood out by being the only character from the larger series to reprise her role in “Paper Jam”. Generally, she is regarded as a representative of the star sprites.

Considering the comeback of the series within “Brothership,” it might be intriguing to introduce a character that echoes elements from “Mario and Luigi” and partly embodies the spirit of the “Mario Kart” series.

3. The Broodals

Bowser’s Wedding Planners

Previous Playable Appearances: None

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but share my excitement about those mischievous moon-dwelling rabbits who orchestrated Bowser’s grand wedding. They cleverly pilfered treasures from the diverse worlds within Super Mario Odyssey, aiming to elevate his nuptial celebrations. These bunnies also crossed paths with Mario, instigating a series of battles as they relentlessly moved forward. Although there were other formidable adversaries in the game, these Broodals certainly left an indelible mark on me with their recurring appearances.

Although Mario Odyssey isn’t a contemporary game, its time period is more linked with the era dominated by Mario Kart 8 and its expansions. It would be intriguing to witness an element of this distinctive title carried forward in the broader franchise, much like Rosalina from Super Mario Galaxy who seems to have outlived her own series.

2. Nabbit

A Robbing Rabbit

Previous Playable Appearances: Mario Kart Tour

Nabbit made quite a splash as a new character introduced in the game “New Super Mario Bros. U”. In this version, he’s portrayed as a sneaky thief who steals Toad houses. You have to catch him to earn rewards. Interestingly, he was upgraded from an enemy in the original game to a playable character in “New Super Luigi U”. Since then, he has continued to be part of the series beyond the “U” version, appearing in games like “Wonder” and numerous spin-offs and crossovers.

Although he wasn’t playable in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, the game and its successor, Mario Kart 9, do include references to this character. It’s possible that he might become a playable character in future mainline Mario Kart games, given his presence in various other Mario games. If Florian doesn’t make an appearance, Nabbit could serve as a symbol of the new era introduced by Mario Kart: Super Circuit – Wonder.

1. Toadsworth

A Long-Lost Ally

Previous Playable Appearances: None

In the vibrant world of Mario games, I’ve always admired Toadsworth, a constant presence since his debut in Super Mario Sunshine. He even graciously chauffeured the victorious racers in Double Dash! Yet, despite being such an integral part of our beloved series, he suddenly vanished from the scene without a trace after Mario and Luigi: Dream Team. It leaves us fans scratching our heads, wondering what could have happened to this esteemed advisor to Princess Peach.

It could be beneficial to incorporate one unique toad, who stands out among the others that are usually exchangeable, given their substantial part in the series so far.

2025-01-23 04:36