Mario Kart World is shaping up to be a truly ambitious title, injecting fresh life into the series with its open world design, innovative modes, and a massive roster of racers. However, let's not forget the magic of crossovers that Mario Kart 8 Deluxe brought to the track. Racers, karts, and courses from F-Zero, The Legend of Zelda, Animal Crossing, and Splatoon transformed Mario Kart 8 Deluxe into a Nintendo fan's crossover dream come true.

While we haven't seen hints of similar crossovers in Mario Kart World just yet, history suggests there's still hope. Many of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe's beloved crossovers arrived as DLC, and with Mario Kart World expected to get DLC on the Nintendo Switch 2, the potential is huge. Of course, bringing back all the previous crossovers would be fantastic, but Nintendo boasts a treasure trove of franchises ripe for new and exciting integrations.

Mario Kart World, the first brand-new Mario Kart in over a decade, is packed with promise. But injecting fresh crossover content – characters, karts, and tracks – could elevate it to legendary status. With that in mind, here are five Nintendo franchises we believe deserve a place in Mario Kart World when it launches on Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5th.

1. Metroid: Blast Off to the Racetrack

The Metroid series is enjoying a phenomenal resurgence on the Nintendo Switch, thanks to new entries, remakes, and the anticipation for Metroid Prime 4: Beyond. Including Metroid in Mario Kart World would be the perfect way to further celebrate this iconic franchise. With Rainbow Road being teased, it's clear space isn't off-limits for Mario Kart World, and Metroid’s universe offers a wealth of content possibilities.

What Metroid could bring:

• Racers: Samus Aran is the obvious choice, but Ridley would be a hilariously oversized addition to the kart racing lineup. Imagine the space pirate crammed into a kart!
• Karts: Samus's iconic ship would make a fantastic kart.
• Track: A course inspired by the Chozo Ruins would be incredibly atmospheric, but there are numerous memorable Metroid locations to choose from.
• Item: A Metroid-themed item could add a terrifying and unique element to races.

2. Star Fox: Do a Barrel Roll into First Place!

The Star Fox series is long overdue for some love, and a Mario Kart World crossover would be the perfect jumpstart. Star Fox Zero, the last installment, was released nearly a decade ago on the Wii U, and Fox McCloud has largely stayed grounded outside of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. Similar to Metroid, a space-themed adventure would seamlessly expand upon the potential of post-Rainbow Road tracks, and Star Fox offers a galaxy of possibilities.

What Star Fox could bring:

• Racers: Fox McCloud is a must, but his teammates Falco, Peppy, or Slippy could also join the race.
• Karts: The Arwing is the quintessential Star Fox vehicle, but the Landmaster or Great Fox would also be awesome picks.
• Track: Imagine a course that weaves through the Lylat System while a Star Fox-style space battle rages in the background! Andross could even make a cameo as a track hazard.

3. Kirby: Dream Land Grand Prix

Few Nintendo characters are as undeniably cute as Kirby! While the pink puffball is already set to star in Kirby Air Ride on Nintendo Switch 2, there's no reason he can't dominate the racetrack in Mario Kart World too. In fact, Kirby's racing pedigree makes him an even more fitting addition, and Dream Land is the perfect setting for a vibrant and exciting course.

What Kirby could bring:

• Racers: Kirby himself, King Dedede, Waddle Dee, or Meta Knight would all be excellent racer choices.
• Karts: Kirby’s signature Warp Star or the majestic Halberd would be incredible karts. Imagine using Kirby's Star Rod item while driving a Star Rod kart – pure fun!
• Track: A Dream Land course is non-negotiable! This iconic Kirby location would allow Nintendo to craft a whimsical and dreamlike racing experience in Mario Kart World.

4. Pikmin: Grow Your Way to Victory

The Pikmin series has seen a surge in popularity recently, thanks to remakes and the critically acclaimed Pikmin 4 on Nintendo Switch. While no new Pikmin titles have been announced for the Nintendo Switch 2 yet, Captain Olimar is ready to steer his way into Mario Kart World. He might be small, but Nintendo has proven their ability to make him fit into games like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.

What Pikmin could bring:

• Racers: Olimar is the most logical choice given his central role, but Alph could also join the race.
• Karts: Olimar's spaceship is the obvious kart choice, but imagine the pure delight of racing with Oatchi as your kart!
• Track: The possibilities for a Pikmin track are as diverse as the series' environments. Whether it’s zooming through a backyard, racing inside a house, or navigating an underground cave, Nintendo could unleash their creative genius with a Pikmin-themed course.

5. Fire Emblem: Emblem of Speed

Fire Emblem might seem like an unexpected choice, but Link's inclusion in Mario Kart proved that more human-like characters have a place in Mario Kart World. Beyond that, Fire Emblem has exploded in popularity to become one of Nintendo's flagship franchises. The Nintendo Switch saw a wealth of Fire Emblem titles, and the Nintendo Switch 2 is likely to continue that trend. Bringing Fire Emblem content to Mario Kart World would be a fantastic way to further integrate this beloved series. Plus, Fire Emblem offers incredible creative flexibility – though adding too many sword-wielding characters might be something to consider.

What Fire Emblem could bring:

• Racers: Marth, Lyn, Corrin, Robin, Chrom, Lucina, Byleth, or Alear – the Fire Emblem universe is overflowing with great character options. Given the recent games, Byleth or Alear might be frontrunners, or Nintendo could opt for a legacy character.
• Karts: A horse, wyvern, or pegasus would be thematically perfect Fire Emblem karts.
• Track: A Fire Emblem-themed track could be incredibly epic, perhaps featuring warring armies clashing around a magnificent castle.

These are just a few ideas, and the potential for Nintendo crossovers in Mario Kart World is truly limitless. Adding content from these franchises would not only excite long-time fans but also draw in new players, making Mario Kart World an even more massive hit on the Nintendo Switch 2.