It is hard to believe that the Mario Kart series began way back in 1992 with its first installment, Super Mario Kart. Since then, its popularity has only grown, as it continues to become more and more innovative with its gameplay. A prime example of this is its most recent release, Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit. This game allows the player to build their own tracks, and in turn, the camera replicates them on screen. However, while these are cool new tricks, their more traditional games include far more characters.
Yet, even with these games being full of different drivers, they could benefit from adding even more characters. For example, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe even incorporates characters outside the Mario kingdom, such as Link, the Inklings, and Isabelle. This is a theme that Nintendo should expand upon in the next major installment in this series, as it is being met with great praise from gamers.
Pianta
Pianta would be a fine addition to the Mario Kart series. It appears that maybe Nintendo could go in that direction in the future, as the Pianta are always in the audience cheering the drivers on during races.
They are very recognizable figures, too, as they play a big role in Super Mario Sunshine. They have been scarcely used outside of this game, too, as they are only playable in Mario Superstar Baseball and its sequel, Mario Super Sluggers.
Chain Chomp
Chain Chomp is a common hindrance in Mario Kart games, but it would not hurt to allow him to be playable, too. He is a foe that has been causing havoc for a number of years, so he is memorable.
There may be potential for this, too, as he is playable in Mario Tennis Aces, while also being talented at the sport. Also, as Super Mario Odyssey displays, it is fun to control him and his monstrous frame.
Captain Falcon
This is an interesting one, as Captain Falcon has his own racing series with F-Zero. Yet, the last game from this series came out way back in 2004 with, F-Zero Climax. Since then, Captain Falcon is only in Super Smash Bros. games.
Given the fact that Captain Falcon has a racing background, he could fit well in Mario Kart. Characters outside the Mario kingdom have been met with praise thus far, so adding another of Captain Falcon's stature is not out of the realm of possibility.
King Bob-omb
Excitingly, King Bob-omb is a playable character in the Mario Kart Tour. This raises the chances of him becoming playable in later big installments of the game, which is warranted.
He is one of the most memorable foes that Mario battles with, especially because of his significance in the iconic Super Mario 64. Also, his appearances seem to be going up in other franchises, too, as it is suspected that he is a playable character in Mario Golf: Super Rush, too.
Mr. Game & Watch
Mr. Game & Watch is one of the oldest characters in Nintendo's history, so paying him homage in Mario Kart games is deserved. This happens to be the case with the Super Smash Bros. series, thankfully.
Yet, seeing this 2D character in the magical 3D Mario Kart world would offer the type of visual contrast that gamers love. It also would be interesting to see what specific power-ups he would have.
Zelda
With Link making hheis debut in the Mario Kart series, it is not far-fetched to believe that Zelda warrants a spot, too. Actually, it would make a lot of sense, as Mario Kart 8 Deluxe offers multiple characters from Animal Crossing, as well as Splatoon.
Therefore, seeing Zelda make appearances in future installments of the game would certainly be well-received. She is the titular character of the series, as well.
Wiggler
Wiggler is one of the most complicated foes that Mario deals with. This is because Wiggler is a character who is not necessarily evil, but he is rather quick to anger when he is startled.
He actually is playable in Mario Kart: Double Dash and Mario Kart 7. Yet, he is snubbed from the most recent installments, which is disappointing. Hopefully this lovable, yet dangerous villain comes back in the future.
Pikachu
When seeing as how series outside of Mario are finding their ways into Mario Kart, perhaps Pokémon could be next. If this does occur, it is quite easy to believe that Pikachu would be the prime choice.
This is due to the fact that he is the face of the entire franchise. As a smaller character, too, he likely would excel when it comes to speed. That, in turn, could turn him into a fan favorite from gamers.
Toadsworth
With Toad and Toadette as playable characters in Mario Kart games, when will it be Toadsworth's turn? Perhaps his old age is prohibiting him from doing so, but he is involved in many high action adventures in other games.
He does have a small cameo in Mario Kart: Double Dash, as he drives the Parade Kart to celebrate the winner of the Grand Prix. Yet, that just is not enough when seeing his significance in games like Super Mario Sunshine.
Goomba
Much like Chain Chomps, Goombas are obstacles that are a part of many tracks throughout the series. This is understandable, as they have been a constant foe of Mario's since his earliest adventures.
With so many characters starting to make their debuts, it is not far-fetched to state that Goomba should be one of them. He is one of the most recognizable villains from the Mario franchise and a very loyal henchman to Bowser.