New Mario Kart 9 leaks suggest the inclusion of guest characters from other Nintendo IPs, possibly including Pikmin and Star Fox.

Just recently, development for Mario Kart 9 has reportedly commenced and might launch this 2022. The game is expecting to have a “new twist” added to its gameplay, however, it’s unclear what this twist is. This time around, a new leak suggests that Star Fox and Pikmin might debut in Mario Kart. In fact, even other Nintendo characters might also join the roster. This could be the “twist” that the developers were talking about.

Prominent Nintendo leaker Zippo claims that characters from Star Fox, Pikmin, and ARMS franchises could debut in Mario Kart. The leaker also added that each character will have alternative costumes thus allowing players to customize characters. However, fans should take this news with a grain of salt. None of this is official until Nintendo actually makes an announcement regarding all these details. 

This wouldn’t be the first time Mario Kart added non-Mario characters in the game. We’ve seen Nintendo characters such as Link, the Inklings, the Villagers, and Isabella included in the roster previously. Adding characters from Star Fox and Pikmin wouldn’t be surprising at all, as Mario Kart assembles ensemble casts of guest characters the same way Smash has been doing.

However, we need to dive into further details with the “new twist” the developers say they were adding. We have a feeling that this could be their way of saying that Mario Kart is taking a new direction. There are new rumors suggesting that the new Mario Kart game could be a crossover game among many Nintendo characters. Even though Mario Kart 9 is reportedly in development, this could just be the working title. “Mario Kart Crossroads” could be the official title of the game once Nintendo makes an official announcement later this year. 

Whether it’s Mario Kart 9 filled with DLC characters or Mario Kart Crossroads, this definitely excites us. It’s been almost 5 years since we’ve seen a new Mario Kart game. Whatever the case may be, we’re just glad to know that a new Mario Kart game is in the works.