Mario Kart World Almost Cut Two Core Series Items

by

Summary

  • Mario Kart World almost omitted the iconic Banana and Green Shell items before ultimately including them.
  • The game’s tracks are all connected in an overworld that can be explored in the new Free Roam mode.
  • Classic power-ups like the Spiny Shell and Bob-Omb are present, with new additions like the Coin Shell and Ice Flower.

The newest installment of Mario Kart, titled Mario Kart World, remarkably omitted two of the series’ most recognized items for the first time since its debut in the original game. With the release of the Nintendo Switch 2, players can now get their hands on this latest edition of Mario Kart. As one of the initial exclusive games for the new console, Mario Kart World was even part of a special bundle that hit stores on June 5. In a departure from traditional Mario Kart gameplay, all tracks in Mario Kart World are interconnected within an overworld that players can freely explore due to the introduction of the Free Roam mode.

In the Mario Kart World, as the race commences, the ultimate goal remains consistent: be the first to cross the finish line. Similar to past Mario Kart games, competitors can utilize a variety of whimsical power-ups to boost their speed or hinder their rivals, with some fresh additions like the Coin Shell that awards coins, the Ice Flower that freezes opponents, and even Kamek, the Magikoopa wizard who can alter other racers’ forms.

In the upcoming game, Mario Kart World, several well-known items like the Spiny Shell and Bob-Omb are returning, but two fan-favorite power-ups were initially left out of the series for the first time ever. Just before the game’s release, producer Kosuke Yabuki spoke with GamesRadar, explaining that his team carefully considered all classic Mario Kart elements to determine what would fit in the new game. Remarkably, the Banana and Green Shell were initially questioned due to their compatibility with Mario Kart World’s fresh wall-riding and rail-grinding mechanics.

Mario Kart World Almost Didn’t Have Bananas or Green Shells

Initially, it was thought that the Banana and Green Shell power-ups would not be featured in Mario Kart World. However, a change of heart ensued, as these items have been mainstays in the franchise since the classic Super Mario Kart on the SNES. The banana peel is deployed behind the user and can momentarily spin out any racer who runs into it. In contrast, the Green Koopa Shell travels straight ahead, knocking over anyone it collides with, unlike Red Shells that chase down nearby opponents or Spiny Shells that target the driver in first place.

In simpler terms, using any of these items to outdo rivals in Mario Kart World could be slightly trickier due to its less restrictive track design. However, fans are pleased that these iconic power-ups have returned, having initially feared they might not be included. As previously stated, Mario Kart World is now accessible to those who managed to secure a Nintendo Switch 2 on its release day. Notably, Nintendo has already released the game’s first update patch just before its official launch this week.

Read More

2025-06-05 20:48