Tag Archives: Mario Kart 9

Donkey Kong’s New Look: A Sign of Things to Come?

Nintendo’s recent unveiling of the Switch 2 brought with it a fresh design for Donkey Kong in the upcoming Mario Kart 9. This updated appearance, featuring a more relaxed and cheerful demeanour, has now extended beyond the game.

The official My Nintendo Store has introduced merchandise showcasing this friendlier version of the iconic ape, suggesting that this redesign is here to stay.  

Credit: Nintendo Store

The shift in Donkey Kong’s look has sparked discussions among fans. Some appreciate the softer, more approachable design, while others miss the classic, more intense expression. Kevin Bayliss, the original designer from the Donkey Kong Country era, supports the change, noting that the previous design limited the character’s range of expressions.  

Nintendo’s recent unveiling of the Switch 2 brought with it a fresh design for Donkey Kong in the upcoming Mario Kart 9. This updated appearance, featuring a more relaxed and cheerful demeanor, has now extended beyond the game. The official My Nintendo Store has introduced merchandise showcasing this friendlier version of the iconic ape, suggesting that this redesign is here to stay.  The shift in Donkey Kong’s look has sparked discussions among fans. Some appreciate the softer, more approachable design, while others miss the classic, more intense expression. Kevin Bayliss, the original designer from the Donkey Kong Country era, supports the change, noting that the previous design limited the character’s range of expressions.  This evolution in Donkey Kong’s appearance aligns with Nintendo’s broader strategy of updating character designs to appeal to a wider audience. As the Switch 2 era begins, it will be interesting to see how this and other character redesigns influence the gaming landscape. Protect your collection with RetroShell’s premium game display protectors, and stay updated with retro gaming news by subscribing to the Retro Gaming Weekly Substack.

This evolution in Donkey Kong’s appearance aligns with Nintendo’s broader strategy of updating character designs to appeal to a wider audience. As the Switch 2 era begins, it will be interesting to see how this and other character redesigns influence the gaming landscape.

Protect your collection with RetroShell’s premium game display protectors, and stay updated with retro gaming news by subscribing to the Retro Gaming Weekly Substack.

Mario Kart 9: Nostalgia Meets Innovation on the Switch 2

Nintendo has been hard at work revving up excitement for Mario Kart 9, and recent glimpses of the game suggest it could be one of the most nostalgic entries in the franchise. Set to launch with the much-anticipated Switch 2, the next instalment in this iconic series promises a perfect blend of classic charm and modern gameplay innovations.

Credit: Nintendo / YouTube

A Blast from the Past: Princess Peach’s Classic Outfit

One of the most striking nods to nostalgia is Princess Peach’s return to her debut outfit from Super Mario Kart (1992). Gone is the sleek racing suit seen in more recent iterations; instead, Peach will don her original pink gown and tiara.

Credit: Nintendo / YouTube

This aesthetic shift mirrors the game’s broader vibe, which seems to lean heavily into retro-inspired elements. Longtime fans of the franchise will appreciate the throwback, while new players can experience the charm of Mario Kart’s early days.

Yoshi’s Roadside Diner: A Sweet Tribute to the SNES Era

Another delightful addition is the inclusion of a Yoshi-shaped roadside diner named “Yoshi’s.” This cheerful track-side landmark pays homage to Yoshi’s Cookie, a 32-year-old SNES puzzler that holds a special place in Nintendo history.

Credit: Nintendo / YouTube

The diner isn’t just a backdrop—it’s fully integrated into the gameplay. Players can zip through the parking lot, dodging cars, while a neon-lit sign glows above the course. Details like this elevate the game world, making it feel alive and connected to Nintendo’s broader legacy.

Gameplay Innovations and Switch 2 Features

While Nintendo has yet to confirm all details, Mario Kart 9 is expected to take full advantage of the Switch 2’s improved hardware. Enhanced graphics, smoother performance, and more interactive tracks are just some of the features teased.

The game will also reportedly expand on its track roster with circuits inspired by classic Nintendo games, merging nostalgia with fresh experiences. Combined with its subtle yet powerful nods to history, Mario Kart 9 feels like a celebration of everything the series has achieved over the decades.

Credit: Nintendo / YouTube

Nostalgia and Fresh Thrills

Between Princess Peach’s retro look, the charming Yoshi’s Diner, and the promise of cutting-edge features, Mario Kart 9 is shaping up to be an unforgettable entry in the franchise. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, this release on the Switch 2 is sure to have something for everyone.

Don’t miss out on the latest updates for Mario Kart 9—subscribe to our Retro Gaming Substack for more Nintendo news. And if you’re a collector, keep your retro games safe with RetroShell premium game protectors.