Zero major updates. That's a glaring omission, especially considering Mario Kart World was part of an $80 bundle that helped drive Switch 2 sales out of the gate. It's been a year since launch, and the lack of significant DLC has left fans feeling like they've been taken for a ride - not the kind they signed up for when they dove into the game's chaotic tracks and frenzied multiplayer. Neglect doesn't even begin to cover it.
Quick Facts — Mario Kart World
| Developer | Universal Studios Hollywood Hub |
|---|---|
| Publisher | Nintendo |
| Platform(s) | Nintendo Switch 2 |
| Release Date | within the last year (exact date not specified) |
| Genre | Racing |
| Price | $80 (as part of a bundle) |
It's a letdown. Fans expected more. You'll notice the game's open-world feature feels dull now. The largest install base on Switch 2 means they've got a huge player base to cater to. Nintendo had a key opportunity to build on the game's initial success, which was tied to Switch 2 console sales, particularly with the bundle that included Mario Kart World. Yoshimitsu126 summed it up on ResetEra, saying,
"Nintendo took our Switch 2 bundle and $80 and went home."We've seen this before, it's not like they didn't know what to do. The real feel of a game like Mario Kart World is in its post-launch support, for fans it's a major part of the experience.
Nintendo's Dry Spell Hits 365 Days
It's a fact. Mario Kart World is lacking. You'll notice the regular DLC updates for other Switch 2 titles, like Donkey Kong Bananza and Pokémon Pokopia, are setting a different standard. RowGonsoleConsole on Reddit says
"I do think Nintendo at this point are getting a bit complacent and cocky,"which is worth mentioning. The comparison to Donkey Kong Bananza is key - it had lower expectations, yet it's getting consistent support. Axe notes
"It's crazy to me that Donkey Kong Bananza... has had more regular content drops than MKW,"and that's the real feel of the situation, with Nintendo's approach to Mario Kart World being a letdown for many fans, it's honest to say they've dropped the ball on this one, for a game that's supposed to be a major crossover title, the lack of major DLC one year after Switch 2 launch is a key issue.
It's a key issue. Fans want more. You'll see people point to Diddy Kong Racing as a way to improve Mario Kart World. They've got a point, it's worth mentioning. The real feel of a game like Mario Kart World is missing with no basic story mode or boss events, which could be a fun crossover with multiplayer, for example, playing through the world with friends. OuterWildsVentures says
"MK World needs split screen online progression. We still don't play it because Player 2 gets nothing lol,"and it's hard to disagree, we've had a year since Switch 2 launched, it's the honest truth.
Mario Kart’s Silent Scandal: 365 Days Without a Track
You'll see people are upset. The real feel is missing. It's been a year since Switch 2 launched. Fans want more, like new costumes for Donkey Kong. They've got ideas, for example,
"Classic Grand Prix as an option, multiplayer free roam, user-created point A to point B races in the world,"which gary! suggested. We've seen key suggestions from the community, with many wanting to use the open world in a better way, it's a way for the game to grow, with things like new vehicles or a mode inspired by Diddy Kong Racing, that's worth mentioning, and it shows they care about Mario Kart World's future.
- Proposed Additions by Fans:
- Classic Grand Prix mode
- Multiplayer free roam
- User-created races
- Split-screen online progression
- New challenges and vehicles
- Basic story mode with boss events (inspired by Diddy Kong Racing)
Nintendo Finally Speaks Up
You'll notice the updates are few. It's been a year. Nintendo added Bob-omb Blast, a new battle mode. Still, the real feel of Mario Kart World is still missing, though. We've got a console that's still finding its feet, with some minor tweaks here and there, but honesty from Nintendo is what fans really need. The key issue is they've not given us a clear plan for the future, leaving fans wondering if next year will be the one where Mario Kart World finally gets the boost it needs, or if it'll stay in the launch window shadow.
The Bad Gamer Take
Nintendo will release a major DLC update for Mario Kart World because the lack of significant post-launch support has led to a decline in player engagement and a negative perception among fans. This update will likely include new tracks, characters, and game modes to revitalize the game's open-world feature and multiplayer experience. Watch for Nintendo's upcoming financial report to see if they address the criticism surrounding Mario Kart World's neglect.
It's been a year. The Switch 2 is getting old. You'll notice the lack of major DLC for Mario Kart World. Nintendo needs to step up. They've got a dedicated player base, for sure. The real feel of Mario Kart World is still there, it's just missing some key updates. We've seen this before, where a game like Mario Kart World gets launched, then just sort of fades away. Nintendo's honesty with fans is important, especially for a crossover like Mario Kart World, which had a lot of hype. It's worth mentioning that Nintendo can still turn things around, they just need to show the community they care.
