Is Zelda in Mario Kart?
For centuries, the worlds of The Legend of Zelda and Mario Kart have been separate entities. However, in recent times, there have been several instances where characters from the Mario Kart universe have appeared in games outside of their platform, and vice versa. This has led many gamers to wonder: Is Zelda in Mario Kart?
Yes, Zelda is in Mario Kart
The answer to the question is a resounding "yes." There is a crossover between the Mario Kart and Zelda universes, and it is reflected in the form of track packs and playable characters in Mario Kart 8, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and Mario Kart 9.
What exactly is the crossover?
The crossover between the Mario Kart and Zelda universes began with the release of Mario Kart 8’s DLC pack, Hyrule Circuit, in 2014. The pack introduced a new race track inspired by the fantasy world of Hyrule from the Zelda series, accompanied by the iconic Hylian music.
More cross-platform characters
Subsequently, other characters from the Zelda series have made appearances in Mario Kart games. Players can now choose from beloved characters like Link, Zelda, and Ganondorf in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, including Diddy Kong, Funky Kong, Pauline, and Peachette in Mario Kart 9.
Who are the playable Zelda characters?
Here’s a breakdown of the playable characters from the Zelda series you can find in Mario Kart:
- Link, the legendary hero from The Legend of Zelda, is a playable character with his trusty steed, Epona.
- Princess Zelda, the monarch of Hyrule, returns as a playable character alongside her iconic outfit from The Legend of Zelda.
- Ganondorf, the main antagonist in The Legend of Zelda series, is also playable.
- Diddy Kong, Funky Kong, Pauline, and Peachette, originally from the Donkey Kong and Mario franchises, will also be joining the multiplayer fray.
Are they unlocked automatically?
Contrary to popular opinion, these Zelda characters are not unlocked automatically through normal gameplay. They will be available as DLC tracks and characters, and may require specific requirements, like winning certain cups, before they can be played. Players can check out gaming forums or online communities to stay updated on new unlocking requirements.
Which racing tracks are inspired by Hyrule?
For avid Zelda fans, Hyrule Circuit, launched with Mario Kart 8, is a must-see. This track offers immersive experiences, with recognizable locales and enemies from the Nintendo 64 classic Ocarina of Time, like Stalfos, Ghirahim, and even a glimpse of Majora’s Mask. To make it even more compelling, the track has sections that resemble the terrain in various Zelda games.
In summary, Yes, Zelda is in Mario Kart. The crossover is showcased through playable characters from both series, with unique vehicles, and even specially created tracks inspired by Hyrule from the Zelda franchise.
Here’s a brief bullet-point summary:
• 4 playable Zelda characters:
- Link
- Princess Zelda
- Ganondorf
- Diddy Kong
- Funky Kong
- Pauline
- Peachette
• 1 track inspired by Hyrule (Hyrule Circuit, part of Mario Kart 8 DLC)
• Need to win specific cups and fulfill requirements to unlock special characters
• Fans, both Mario Kart and Zelda, will appreciate this limited-time crossover event.
Overall, the integration of Zelda elements with the Mario Kart series is a win for both fans of both beloved franchises.