During a revealing interview, Scarlett Johansson shared that her favorite video game is Mario Kart, an announcement that aligns her with countless Nintendo fans worldwide. However, it was Johansson’s selection of Toad as her preferred character that sparked lively discussions among players and followers of her career, especially given the diversity of beloved racers in the Mario Kart universe.
How Scarlett Johansson Got Into Video Games
Scarlett Johansson’s connection to video games extends beyond her casual gaming moments. Observers have seen her engaging in multiplayer Tetris competitions with her Avengers co-star Chris Evans, using classic devices like the Game Boy and linking them via cables for friendly matches. Aside from her playtime, Johansson contributed her voice and acting skills to video games, including roles in The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie game from 2004 and LEGO Marvel’s Avengers, which released in 2016. This blend of personal and professional experience in gaming makes her preferences notable for fans both of her film work and of video games in general.
Mario Kart, as a franchise, is deeply woven into gaming culture, and Scarlett Johansson’s endorsement carries added weight given her prominence. The announcement ties her memories and enjoyment to a title many players—casual and competitive alike—recall fondly from various stages of Nintendo’s history. Whether Johansson played early iterations from childhood or discovered the game later, her appreciation for Mario Kart resonates with a broad segment of gamers.
Johansson Names Mario Kart the Standout Game
In a discussion with IGN in 2016, Johansson singled out Mario Kart when asked about her gaming favorites. Although she did not name a particular version of the franchise, her choice was celebrated among Nintendo enthusiasts. Considering her age and background, it’s possible she first encountered the original Super Mario Kart as a child, but the franchise’s fun and accessible nature means new and returning players of all ages can enjoy it. Johansson’s selection reflects both the timeless appeal of Mario Kart and the communal experiences it fosters.
Recent developments in the Mario Kart series, such as the possible sneak peek at a Reverse Mode featured in a YouTube video by GapleKBehemoth, show the game’s ongoing evolution and continued popularity. While Johansson’s preference highlights nostalgic memories for many, the franchise remains dynamic, giving longtime fans and newer players plenty to look forward to on Nintendo platforms.
Mario Kart’s enduring charm lies in its accessible gameplay, lively social competition, and clever mechanics for balancing races, ensuring that even those who fall behind can remain competitive. This simple, fun-centered experience stands out in a world where increasingly complex games can sometimes overshadow the joy of picking up a controller for a quick session.
Her Surprising Character Choice: Toad Takes the Lead
Though few would argue with Johansson’s top pick for favorite game, her choice of Toad as her go-to character for races surprised many. While Toad is recognizable and friendly, he is not usually the center of fervent fandom within the Mario Kart roster. Johansson’s reasoning for choosing Toad adds a charming personal touch to her gaming persona.
Johansson said she prefers Toad because “he’s cute.” His signature grin and simple, plush-like appearance, complete with big, expressive eyes, make him personable and accessible—especially for those drawn to easygoing characters. Toad’s high-energy, somewhat raspy voice lends extra personality, though some fans affectionately compare it to other well-known pop culture voices. Johansson’s stated reason for picking her favorite Mario Kart character connects with players who prize cuteness and approachability in their avatars, sealing her reputation as a player with her own unique style.
“Johansson said she usually picks Toad in Mario Kart because he’s cute, which is true. He has an endearing smile and his all-black eyes remind me of a plush toy.”
Debating the Best Character—Toad or Yoshi?
The debate over the cutest or best Mario Kart character is a familiar one among longtime fans. For some, Toad’s simple design and availability in nearly every iteration of the game make him a solid, if uncontroversial, pick. Others, however, have their hearts set on characters like Yoshi, whose less-human features and quirky sound effects give him appeal beyond sheer appearance. The green dinosaur holds a special place in the hearts of players who prefer unique personalities or simply love his color and playful nature.
Among the many athletes and pop culture figures drawn to the fast-paced action of Mario Kart, such preferences evoke lively exchanges online and in living rooms. Players like Johansson, who have developed their own favorites, spark fresh conversations on what defines a top Mario Kart character and why certain racers become personal icons.
“Toad may be cute, but for my money, he’s got nothing on Yoshi. I think being less humanoid gives Yoshi a big edge in terms of cuteness, and while Toad’s voice may be cute, Yoshi’s is even cuter and he makes adorable noises.”
Mario Kart’s Ongoing Appeal
Scarlett Johansson’s candid responses capture why Mario Kart remains a staple in gaming households. Nintendo continues refining the franchise with new missions and gameplay features, reaching long-standing fans as well as newcomers to the series. Social and competitive elements fuel its popularity, crossing generational divides and regional boundaries. The selection of favorite characters, such as Toad, Yoshi, Luigi, and Dry Bones, highlights the diversity of player identities and playstyles that Mario Kart encourages and celebrates.
With stars like Scarlett Johansson openly discussing their gaming preferences, Mario Kart endures not just as a beloved game but as a marker of cultural connection, nostalgia, and friendly rivalry. No matter how fans feel about characters like Toad or Yoshi, Johansson’s inclusion in the conversation ensures this playful debate will continue in living rooms, online threads, and even celebrity interviews for years to come.
Source: IGN
