Why Zelda Content in Mario Kart 9 is More Important Than Ever

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If Mario Kart 9 manages to meet player expectations, it could be an ideal debut game for the Nintendo Switch 2. Following the exceptional DLC of Mario Kart 8, Mario Kart 9 should focus more on its collaborative content, and the Legend of Zelda series presents a fantastic opportunity for this.

Mario Kart, a long-standing favorite for Nintendo console users, usually graces each new piece of hardware with its own fresh installment. However, unlike others, the Nintendo Switch only received a revamped version of Mario Kart 8 plus extra content. This could be why there’s such anticipation for Mario Kart 9, slated as a launch title for the Nintendo Switch 2. Additionally, discussions among Nintendo enthusiasts revolve around the possibility of more cross-franchise content in Mario Kart 9, like what was presented in the DLC of Mario Kart 8. By incorporating elements from series such as Animal Crossing, F-Zero, and Splatoon, Nintendo may have sparked a trend, as fans now yearn for more cross-overs in the upcoming game. If this is the path they choose to follow, The Legend of Zelda‘s Tears of the Kingdom could offer an abundance of new content.

Tears of the Kingdom Should be Front and Center in Mario Kart 9

It’s undeniable that the popularity of the Zelda series has soared to unprecedented levels, particularly with the release of Breath of the Wild and its upcoming sequel, Tears of the Kingdom. These games have become among the best-selling titles on the Nintendo Switch. In fact, they’ve secured such a strong position that they are likely to feature prominently in the crossovers for Mario Kart 9. The innovative mechanics of Tears of the Kingdom, particularly the Ultrahand tool, provide an excellent foundation for creating karting add-ons. Players can use this feature to craft unique vehicles, like a go-kart for Link or Zelda in Mario Kart 9. The Zonai wheels, batteries, fans, and other devices from the game could be used to design these custom karts.

In addition to scaling the heights and delving into the depths of Hyrule, Tears of the Kingdom offers breathtaking scenery that could serve as an inspiration for race tracks. Notably, this game presents unique locations that make it stand out among its peers. For instance, a side quest involves Link organizing a race in Lurelin Village, while another is reminiscent of Breath of the Wild, where he races sand seals in the Gerudo Desert. However, the most captivating location within Tears of the Kingdom lies beneath the surface – the depths of Hyrule. Given the numerous quests that take place down there, a race track could seamlessly blend with the corrupted landscape, making it an intriguing addition to the game.

Mario Kart Crossovers Should be Here to Stay

If the game “” doesn’t spark your imagination, there are other Nintendo franchises that warrant consideration as well. It would be fitting for Nintendo to commemorate the Switch’s legacy with ““, featuring crossovers from top-selling games of the previous generation and generating excitement for future releases. Games such as ““, ““, and “” could provide captivating karts, tracks, and battlefields that Mario and his companions can explore.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe included:

  • Link, Animal Crossing Villagers, Isabelle, and Inklings as playable racers
  • Hyrule Circuit, Excitebike Arena, Mute City and Big Blue from F-Zero, and Animal Crossing as racetracks
  • Splatoon’s Urchin Underpass as a battle arena
  • Karts for most of the included properties

It appears as though the Mario Kart series could soon serve as a tribute to Nintendo, much like the Super Smash Bros. games do. With new characters potentially joining the roster in Mario Kart 9, it’s plausible that franchises that haven’t been featured in Mario Kart before may make an appearance. Characters such as Kirby, Star Fox, and Metroid could find a fresh following on the racetrack, just as they have on the battlefield. Although no crossovers for Mario Kart 9 have been officially announced yet, fans are eagerly anticipating that the upcoming game will fulfill its potential in this regard.

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2025-03-26 18:35