We're just one week away from the launch of Mario Kart 8, and Nintendo is going big for the final pre-release weekend. This time tomorrow, Mario Kart is set to collide with NASCAR.
Nintendo Talks Mario Kart 8's Potential For Boosting Wii U Sales, Lightning Item Test Trials
Given the sport, maybe "collide" isn't the best word. Hit "head on?" No, that's no good either. The long and short of it is that driver Matt Kenseth is bringing the plumber and the no doubt future hit title to Charlotte Motor Speedway's History 300, and all on the side of the No. 20 GameStop sponsored car.
"Kenseth’s car will be outfitted with artwork from the game showing Mario defying gravity and racing upside-down", said a press release. You can watch a video below showing Matt Kenseth's car being transformed into a bright and and drivable GameStop Mario Kart ad.
Mario Kart 8 Limited Edition Will Only Be Available At Nintendo World Store
While just waiting to watch cars go up in a fiery ball of death is more than enough for most NASCAR fans, gamers will want something more to keep them occupied, and Nintendo's got them covered.
Fans who attend the History 300 will have a chance to participate in a variety of activities, like try out their own racing skills at Mario Kart 8 gaming kiosks, or get pictures with the Mario and Luigi costumed characters at the Fan Zone. You can check out the times below so you'll know when to be there:
Saturday, May 24 - 9 AM to 3 PM
Sunday, May 25 - 10 AM to 6 PM
Mario Kart 8 releases at the end of the month as a Wii U exclusive. The racer features one of the biggest rosters yet, with Mario, Luigi, Peach, Daisy, Rosalina, their respective infant versions, Yoshi, Bowser, Donkey Kong, Toad, Koopa Troopa, Toadette, Wario, Waluigi, Shy Guy, Metal Mario, Lakitu, and Bowser's kids Larry, Morton, Wendy, Iggy, Roy, Lemmy, and Ludwig as playable racers. Pink Gold Peach, a counter character to Metal Mario, rounds out the roster, bringing the total character count to 30.
Beyond the characters, Mario Kart 8 also adds in new items, anti-gravity, both new and favorite retro tracks, and the return of bikes, gliders, and underwater driving. Nintendo's World Store in Manhattan will be holding a launch party to celebrate.