What’s the Fresh Spin in Mario Kart 9?

We’ve only gotten a brief glimpse of about 17 seconds from the upcoming Mario Kart in the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal trailer, yet that won’t deter me from diving headfirst into a deep analysis of each frame. There’s no shortage of familiar characters and their rides, but there’s also a new course and some unique elements that caught my attention.

Rumor has it that development kicked off back in 2022 with a “new twist” in mind. Fans finally have some footage to fuel their speculations on what that twist could entail—I’m definitely among those eager theorists. So join me as I share the three leading theories that have been swirling in my mind, and let’s see if we can unravel what’s next for the beloved karting franchise and its iconic red-capped racer.

### Open World Mario Kart

The most popular theory floating around is that this could be the Mario Kart game where the series steps into “open world” territory. If we’ve had Super Mario World, why not a Mario Kart World? Although it might just be wishful thinking, there are a few details that hint this might actually be in the cards.

The starting line is labeled “Mario Bros. Circuit,” which might seem straightforward. But what if it’s a bit of intentional misdirection? Instead of merely a race track, this might be part of an expansive hub where 24 racers—double the amount from Mario Kart 8—can gather. Making a splash is the absence of item boxes in the footage, suggesting this might not be a traditional race but an open-world lobby where drivers zip around freely.

One element stands out though—a glowing yellow object nestled under the towering burger at Yoshi’s drive-thru. This isn’t likely your standard item box, as it’s unusual for everyone to share just one. Could this be a fuel pick-up? The intriguing idea here is that buildings like this or the Fire Flower Gas Station at the starting line might serve as pit stops for a speed boost or to mend vehicle damage, akin to how Burnout Paradise used garages.

Mario’s kart itself hints at something more. At first glance, it’s your usual kart, but a closer look reveals a “1-Up Fuel” logo on the side. This could mean the addition of fuel tanks for manual speed boosts, or maybe an overall enhancement to vehicle customization. Imagine wandering through a vast hub collecting upgrades and unlocking new vehicles—something akin to finding barn treasures in Forza Horizon. I’d relish searching the Mushroom Kingdom for a rare Toad wagon, wouldn’t you?

Perhaps the most speculative idea is that the final camera pullback revealing a sprawling desert might signal an open world to explore. With the road extending far into the distance without obvious turns, it’s easy to imagine possibilities beyond closed circuits.

### Off-Roading Mario Kart

Alternatively, the vast desert could hint at diverse off-road segments rather than standard track races. Additional hints lie scattered throughout the gameplay. Notably absent, traditional barriers might give way to ramps on the track’s edge, encouraging a rally-style detour.

We also catch Rosalina making her comeback since Mario Kart Wii; she appears in what looks like the Snow Skimmer from Mario Kart Tour. Equipped with skis on the front, this vehicle seems tailor-made for snowy terrain and sandy tracks. Could expanding off-road capabilities be, in fact, crucial for the upcoming laps on these new circuits?

And while Bowser’s adorning massive tires might align well with his style, it tickles the part of me wondering if I’m reading too much into everything. Then again, you’re here reading my speculations, so perhaps we’re both on this adventure together.

### Super Mario Bros. 40th Anniversary Celebration Mario Kart

Looking into the teaser, Donkey Kong’s new design prompted quite a few head scratches. Was it meant to echo his appearance in the Super Mario Bros movie? Despite the fuzziness when zoomed in, could it instead signify a nod toward a celebratory aspect, marking Mario’s storied legacy? With 2025 marking the 40th anniversary of the original Super Mario Bros., it’s worth pondering whether this new Mario Kart seeks to commemorate that.

Though a bit of a stretch, sans the presence of non-Mario characters like Link or Animal Crossing villagers, the focus might veer purely towards Mario and his ensemble cast. Adding weight to this theory, tracks like the “Mario Bros. Circuit” and desert settings echo the aesthetics of Super Mario history. I even spotted a Shine Sprite reference, a throwback to Super Mario Sunshine.

Tracks paying homage to iconic Mario games would indeed be magnificent. This American-inspired one, with its driving direction and overall feel, has me guessing it could lead us to New Donk City from Super Mario Odyssey. Maybe I’m reaching, but who wouldn’t love a birthday homage for our favorite plumber?

So, what do you think this new Mario Kart twist might entail? Have I overanalyzed these 17 seconds of looping gameplay? Share your thoughts in the comments below!