F-Zero 99 isn’t exactly lapping Mario Kart’s sales, but it’s definitely winning fans as Nintendo’s sleeper hit in the racing scene. With its wild 99-player battle royale, breakneck speeds, and not a blue shell in sight, F-Zero has managed to grab a loyal niche that constantly debates strategies—and recovers from wipeouts. While it hasn’t packed virtual stadiums just yet, its chaotic races and growing community hint there’s more to this track than meets the eye. Curious where it accelerates next?
Even in a universe where Mario has long claimed pole position, F-Zero is finding ways to accelerate past expectations—at least in some surprising corners of Nintendo’s racing lineup. For decades, Mario Kart has dominated Nintendo’s racing tracks, wheel-to-wheel with loyal fans and a sumo-sized sales record.
F-Zero is racing past expectations, finding new speed in a universe long ruled by Mario Kart’s blockbuster legacy.
It’s tough to compete with a franchise that’s sold more than 68 million copies of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on Switch alone. Yet, F-Zero, the futuristic speedster, has dusted off its helmet and found a fresh lane with F-Zero 99.
This latest entry, zooming onto Switch in 2023, isn’t your grandpa’s single-player F-Zero. Instead, it’s a battle royale, pitting 99 racers against each other in real-time chaos. No blue shells here—just breakneck speed, elimination, and more than a few spectacular wipeouts. The Switch’s worldwide sales reached 152.12 million units, giving F-Zero 99 a massive potential audience for its high-speed thrills.
Nintendo leaned into the Switch’s online features, targeting players hungry for competitive, skill-based multiplayer action. F-Zero 99 was developed by Nintendo Software Technology and released as the first new entry in the franchise since 2004.
Of course, F-Zero 99 doesn’t fill stadiums like Mario Kart—at least not yet. Nintendo hasn’t shared official sales numbers, which suggests it’s not setting any records. Still, in a market where Mario is the heavyweight, F-Zero’s unique online twist has carved out a dedicated niche.
The Switch’s massive install base—over 152 million units—means the potential for growth is hardly out of reach, especially for players who like their racing a little more intense.
Community engagement is quietly revving up, too. Active discussion forums, tournaments, and fan-made strategies keep the F-Zero flame alive.
The multiplayer format—where every race is a new showdown—encourages players to return, sharpen their skills, and maybe, just maybe, finally dodge the infamous mines.