Following the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, which unveiled the successor console, Nintendo recently showcased the Mario Kart World Direct. This presentation offered an in-depth look at the new racing game, and eagle-eyed fans spotted a frame hinting at the return of a beloved guest character from the series. Guest racers are characters from other Nintendo franchises outside the Super Mario universe, with past entries including Link from The Legend of Zelda and Isabelle from Animal Crossing. Now, one iconic guest might be making a comeback in Mario Kart World.

Mario Kart World is set to launch simultaneously with the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5, serving as a flagship title available in a special bundle. Boasting a roster of over 40 characters, the game supports up to 24 players and introduces new mechanics like Dash Foods. The Direct also revealed eight new tracks coming to Mario Kart World.

Despite the Direct confirming that a popular character would return to Mario Kart World as an item only, the showcase also teased the return of the beloved guest character R.O.B. However, fans shouldn't get too excited just yet. During the Mario Kart World Direct, a new bike was spotted in the “Yoshi's” segment, paying homage to the iconic robot from the Nintendo Entertainment System era. The red-and-white bike mirrors the color scheme of the original toy robot accessory released in 1985. R.O.B. (Robotic Operating Buddy) was the final unlockable character in Mario Kart DS. While the R.O.B. bike doesn't confirm the robot's return as a playable racer, it does suggest Nintendo hasn’t forgotten about the fan-favorite character.

Mario Kart World Confirms R.O.B. Bike

After being treated to an exciting gameplay preview, Nintendo fans still had one major complaint about Mario Kart World. However, many were thrilled to see R.O.B., or at least elements of R.O.B., featured in the franchise again. Fans on social media praised the bike’s design, calling it “fire.” Yet, some robot enthusiasts felt it was unfair to see R.O.B. reduced to a mere bike accessory.

The Direct also unveiled Mario Kart World's game modes. Alongside returning favorites like Time Trials, VS Races, Team Races, Balloon Battle, and Coin Runners, the new title introduces four main modes: Grand Prix, Knockout Tour, Free Roam, and Battle Mode. Free Roam, in particular, stands out as an exciting open-world experience for players to explore.