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"Mario Kart 9 Character Redesign Inspired by Super Mario Bros. Movie"

by Hunter Apr 22,2025

Nintendo has officially unveiled the Nintendo Switch 2, and alongside it, the highly anticipated Mario Kart 9. Fans have quickly noticed a significant redesign of one character in particular, seemingly inspired by The Super Mario Bros. Movie. The trailer showcased over a dozen characters, but it was Donkey Kong who caught everyone's attention with his new look.

For years, even decades, Donkey Kong's design has remained consistent across various games, including Mario Kart 8, Mario Tennis, and Donkey Kong Country Returns. However, The Super Mario Bros. Movie introduced a fresh take on his appearance, which Nintendo now appears to be integrating into its latest games.

Donkey Kong in Mario Kart 8, the animated film, and Mario Kart 9

Donkey Kong in Mario Kart 8, the animated film, and Mario Kart 9 (Image Credit: Nintendo)

Only a brief glimpse of Mario Kart 9 was shared, with Donkey Kong appearing in just a few scenes, and not particularly clearly. It will be some time before fans can fully compare the designs side by side, but the differences are already noticeable.

More detailed views of the game are expected in April during the Nintendo Switch 2 Nintendo Direct. The console reveal trailer offered just a few hints about the Nintendo Switch 2, focusing primarily on its appearance. It confirmed that the hardware is mostly backwards compatible, the Joy-Cons include a mysterious new button, and a theory about using the controller as a mouse seems accurate.

Although the Nintendo Switch 2 was announced with a 2025 release window, it's unlikely to hit the market before June at the earliest. This is due to numerous hands-on events scheduled worldwide, with registration opening soon.

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