Garfield Kart 2 arrives on the Switch with multiplayer and customization

Both Microids and Paramount Global have officially confirmed the development of Garfield Kart 2: All You Can Drift, with a planned release for the end of 2025 on the Nintendo Switch. The new entry in the racing series starring the iconic orange cat will bring an expanded and more polished approach compared to previous titles, focusing on online and local multiplayer modes, as well as a robust kart customization system.

The game will allow matches with up to 8 players online or up to 4 players in local split-screen, following the model adopted in Garfield Kart: Furious Racing (2019), a title that succeeded the original Garfield Kart, released for the Nintendo 3DS in 2013.

Garfield Kart 2: All You Can Drift promises three distinct themed universes, each with unique circuits and specific challenges:

• Detective scenarios, with tracks full of visual mysteries and thematic obstacles;
• Pirate environments, with ramps inspired by ships and tropical islands;
• Wild west regions, with dusty trails and tight curves.
   

In total, there will be eight playable characters from the Garfield universe, including Garfield, Odie, and Jon, each with unique driving characteristics. Kart customization will include adjustments to bumpers, wheels, spoilers, colors, and visual styles, which may influence performance in races.

Additionally, collectible items and shortcuts will be scattered throughout the tracks, encouraging various strategies in races — a formula that has proven effective in titles like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Despite the inevitable comparisons, the Garfield Kart series has never reached the same level of critical reception or popularity, often being the target of average reviews.

The official product description highlights that "even in dreams, Garfield is the king," suggesting a fantastical setting with transitions between reality and the protagonist's daydreams — a possible attempt to add thematic variety to the content.

There is still no confirmation regarding versions for other platforms or specific technical improvements in relation to performance on the Switch, such as frame rate or resolution. Microids also did not inform whether there will be support for crossplay in online multiplayer.

The debut of Garfield Kart 2 marks another attempt to revitalize the franchise with a young and nostalgic audience, in a competitive market of arcade racing games. The expectation is that, with better online support and a deeper customization system, the title can at least expand its fan base — especially among casual players.