A dataminer has discovered code within Mario Kart World suggesting that Spiny, the familiar spiky-shelled enemy from the Super Mario Bros. series, was intended to be a playable character.
The finding was shared by Bluesky user Benial, who identified Spiny's internal name, 'Togezo,' listed alongside other characters in the game's data. At present, there have been no accompanying models, animations, or insights into how Spiny would have operated a kart.
Spiny, first introduced in 1985's Super Mario Bros., is known for its menacing appearance and spiky shell, characteristics that might raise questions about its suitability for high-speed kart racing. However, the game already features Boo, a ghost character who also presents a non-traditional image for a driver.
Mario Kart World, a title that has seen several updates including the addition of battle mode and team races, launched as a title for the Nintendo Switch 2. The console experienced strong sales in the previous year, with Mario Kart World present during this period.