Nintendo fans are not taking kindly to the hefty $80 price tag attached to Mario Kart World, a decision that has sparked quite the reaction online. With demands for a price drop echoing across social media platforms like Twitter, it’s clear that the gaming giant’s move hasn’t sat well with its audience.
The uproar began shortly after Mario Kart World’s recent feature during Nintendo’s Direct presentation, where fans flooded the event’s chat, urging Nintendo to reconsider its pricing strategy. This game is set to be a launch title for the eagerly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, but its cost has been a sticking point for potential buyers. Both the physical and digital versions are priced at $79.99, which is notably higher than the industry standard of $70.
There was initial confusion when some reports mistakenly claimed the game would cost $90. Although this was not the case, the confirmed $80 price still stands out as steep in the eyes of many gamers. Fans haven’t been shy about voicing their discontent, taking to online platforms in droves to make themselves heard.
Earlier, the collective unrest among the community even managed to propel the hashtag “DROP THE PRICE” into trending status on Twitter. Throughout the Mario Kart World Direct, similar sentiments resonated through the chat, with fans displaying their shock and dissatisfaction. Nintendo, on the other hand, seems to believe that the expansive content featured in Mario Kart World justifies this premium price. However, only time will reveal the tangible impacts of this controversy on the game’s ultimate sales performance. If history repeats itself—as seen with Mario Kart 8 Deluxe’s enduring success—Mario Kart World might still thrive despite the backlash.
Some gamers express concern about the larger implications of Mario Kart World’s pricing decision. The fear is that if this game sells well at $80, it could set a precedent, encouraging other publishers to hike their prices too. A particular worry looms around the potential pricing of Grand Theft Auto 6, with speculation that this trend could push its price to a daunting $100.
While there’s no confirmation from Nintendo about any plans to lower the game’s price, there’s a small ray of hope for eager fans looking for a deal. Nintendo is offering a special bundle for the Switch 2 which includes Mario Kart World, effectively granting buyers a $30 discount. However, this offer comes with a catch—it is limited in quantity and won’t be around by fall 2025.
Despite the uproar, it remains to be seen how the pricing will genuinely impact Mario Kart World’s success. Meanwhile, it serves as a vivid reminder of the delicate balance between content value and consumer expectations in the gaming industry.
