More than three decades after Super Mario Kart debuted on the Super Nintendo, its community is preparing one of the most ambitious expansions yet. The fan-developed Super Mario Kart Deluxe (SMKDX) project is targeting 25 December 2026 for release.
More than a track pack
Led by MrL314 and ScouB, the project is planned to add eight playable characters, six cups, fresh tracks, new items, additional speed classes up to 300cc, Mirror Mode and new multiplayer options. A mission mode will also introduce objectives and custom boss encounters inspired by later Mario Kart games.
The developers have emphasised that they want the original game content to remain playable alongside the additions, rather than replacing the familiar SNES experience.
Building around real SNES limitations
In a recent interview, MrL314 described the challenges of expanding a game built around the Super Nintendo's memory, sprite and colour-palette constraints. Even adding a new item can create unexpected interactions with the original game's systems. The team has also investigated differences between PAL and NTSC behaviour while working towards compatibility.
Original-hardware support is part of the team's plans, alongside emulator use. Final compatibility and release requirements should be checked when the finished patch becomes available.
Christmas target, not a finished release
The announced date is 25 December 2026. The developers say the main features are implemented and their attention is now on polishing and resolving potentially game-breaking issues. As with any community project, the date and final feature set may change.
Console Revive take
SMKDX is a brilliant example of why the SNES scene remains exciting: enthusiasts are still learning how to push original hardware further while preserving the character of the games people grew up with. For owners restoring or maintaining a Super Nintendo, projects like this offer a fresh reason to keep the original console connected and ready to play.
Sources
Time Extension — interview with developer MrL314
Time Extension — release-date announcement and developer statements
Retro Dodo — independent coverage