Nintendo has officially refuted claims that the Mario Kart World development team utilized generative AI in the creation of the highly anticipated racing game for the Nintendo Switch 2. With the upcoming console's release generating significant excitement, and Mario Kart World serving as its bundled launch title, Nintendo aims to clarify the situation and protect its developers from potentially damaging allegations.

Following early glimpses of the Switch 2 hardware, which showcased footage of an unannounced new entry in the beloved Nintendo racing series, Mario Kart World was officially unveiled during a Switch 2 Direct presentation in April. The game builds on classic racing elements that have captivated fans since the franchise's debut on the SNES, while also introducing new features in Mario Kart World, such as fresh characters, courses, and innovative game modes like Freeroam and Knockout Tour.

While the initial reveal trailer sparked considerable enthusiasm, a subsequent Nintendo Treehouse livestream left some fans disgruntled over what they believed to be AI-generated imagery. Notably, these questionable elements did not affect Mario Kart World's characters or vehicles but were instead spotted in background details, such as a poster featuring a car with unusual proportions and a building with nonsensical zigzagging ramps. In response to an inquiry from Eurogamer, a Nintendo representative firmly denied the allegations, stating that generative AI was not used in the game's development.

Despite Nintendo's denial of AI usage, Mario Kart World continues to face criticism over other controversial features. While the series has always embraced a fun, casual approach to racing, Mario Kart World will not offer an option to disable course hazards, though players can control the appearance of items on tracks.

Many fans have also expressed disappointment over Mario Kart World's $80 price tag. While Nintendo Switch games have traditionally been priced lower than their PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S counterparts, Nintendo justifies the increase by highlighting the game's open-world elements and significant graphical enhancements. For those seeking savings, a Switch 2 bundle including Mario Kart World offers a $30 discount.