Mario Kart World is Nintendo’s most ambitious entry in the franchise to date, launching exclusively for the new Nintendo Switch 2. As the successor to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, which remains one of the most beloved and best-selling games on the Switch, Mario Kart World has a lot to live up to—and based on everything we know so far, it’s aiming higher than ever.
Official Release Date and Availability
Nintendo has confirmed that Mario Kart World will release globally on June 5, 2025, as a launch title for the Nintendo Switch 2. There are currently no plans for the game to be available on other platforms, maintaining Nintendo’s long-standing tradition of exclusivity.
Gameplay: From Traditional Tracks to Open World
The gameplay reveal during the Nintendo 2 Direct confirmed that Mario Kart World introduces open-world exploration to the series for the first time. Rather than racing in disconnected circuits, players now compete across vast, interconnected environments with changing weather and time-of-day mechanics.
Free Roam and Exploration Mechanics
One of the most exciting new features is the Free Roam mode, which lets players drive anywhere in the environment, solo or with friends. You’re no longer bound by the track—you can explore cities, deserts, forests, and more. The mode is enhanced by the new Photo Mode, allowing you to capture action shots and moments during races.
New Racing Techniques and Abilities
The game introduces several new mechanics to refresh the racing formula. One standout is Charge Jump, which enables you to leap across rails or onto walls to dodge attacks or find alternate paths. You’ll also collect food items mid-race that unlock exclusive outfits for your characters.
Vehicle Design and Control Options
Unlike previous games where you could customize each part of your kart, vehicles in Mario Kart World come fully pre-built, with detailed designs tailored to specific characters and themes. The game supports motion controls, voice chat via Nintendo Switch Online, and even offers compatibility with a new Joy-Con 2 Wheel, sold separately.
Expanded Roster and Customization
With 24 players per race, this is the largest racing lineup in Mario Kart history. Each character has a unique selection of alternate costumes, allowing for deep personalization and competitive flair. Nintendo has teased a mix of returning favorites and brand-new characters.
Track Design: New Environments and Nostalgic Returns
Nintendo revealed several new tracks, including Mario Bros Circuit Desert Road, Crown City, Salty Salty Speedway, and Boo Cinema. In addition, classic tracks like Toad’s Factory (Mario Kart Wii), Peach Beach (Double Dash!!), and Wario’s Galleon (Mario Kart 7) are making a comeback, fully remastered for the Switch 2.
Grand Prix Mode: Bigger and Bolder Than Ever
The traditional Grand Prix mode remains a cornerstone of the experience. Complete races across themed cups to unlock rewards—including a brand-new Rainbow Road, which Nintendo promises will be one of the most visually stunning in the franchise.
Returning Game Modes and New Additions
Classic modes like Time Trials, Battle Mode, and VS Mode return. VS Mode now supports team-based competition with up to four teams of six players each, taking full advantage of the 24-player races. Battle Mode brings back Balloon Battle and Coin Runner, beloved by fans of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.
Knockout Tour Mode: Competitive Racing Evolution
The most innovative new mode is Knockout Tour, a high-stakes, cross-continental rally where racers are gradually eliminated at checkpoints. Only the top performers advance through each stage, and the two final drivers face off in a showdown for victory. The mode includes unique routes like Golden Rally, Moon Rally, Spiny Rally, Ice Rally, Cherry Rally, Cloud Rally, and Heart Rally.
Dynamic Lobby and In-Race Interaction
In Knockout Tour, players can explore the world in Free Roam mode while waiting for matchmaking. Surveillance stations let you observe the race world, and the Switch 2’s D-Pad allows for quick messages and social interactions with other racers in real-time.
Multiplayer and Online Features
Online racing is a key component of Mario Kart World. Players will have access to voice chat, matchmaking, and co-op features through Nintendo Switch Online. Free Roam also supports multiplayer sessions where friends can explore maps together, strategize, or simply race for fun.
Audio, Camera, and Hardware Enhancements
The game integrates with Switch 2’s new camera to monitor friend activity. Nintendo has also improved tilt-based driving for more responsive motion controls, bringing the kart racing experience closer to arcade-level immersion.
Pricing and Controversy
Mario Kart World will cost $80 USD for the digital version and $90 USD for the physical edition. This has sparked some backlash, as it’s priced higher than Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, which launched at $60. Nintendo is also offering a Switch 2 bundle that includes the game for $499 USD.
Conclusion: Is Mario Kart World Worth the Hype?
Mario Kart World is not just another sequel—it’s a full reinvention of the series. With open-world racing, more characters, deeper mechanics, competitive knockout modes, and seamless online play, Nintendo is aiming to redefine what Mario Kart can be. For fans, both new and old, this could be the most expansive and replayable Mario Kart game ever made.
