Nintendo's recent Mario Kart World Direct has unveiled an exciting array of details about the much-anticipated launch title for the Nintendo Switch 2, set to release on June 5, 2025. This roundup compiles all the essential information from the Direct, designed to keep fans engaged and informed as they await the game's launch.
Courses -------Mario Kart World introduces a dynamic selection of new and reimagined classic courses seamlessly integrated into an expansive, interconnected map. Notable courses highlighted include Mario Bros. Circuit, Crown City, Salty Salty Speedway, Starview Peak, Boo Cinema, Toad's Factory, Peach Beach, and Wario Shipyard. What's particularly thrilling for veteran players is the fresh take on these classic tracks, which have been revitalized to blend seamlessly with the game's new world, ensuring both nostalgia and novelty.
Characters and New Techniques
With the ability to host up to 24 racers per event, Mario Kart World boasts an extensive roster of characters. The Direct showcased favorites such as Mario, Luigi, Peach, Daisy, Yoshi, and a host of others including Baby Peach, Baby Daisy, Baby Rosalina, Rosalina, Koopa, Rocky Wrench, Conkdor, Goomba, Spike, Cow, King Boo, Bowser, Donkey Kong, Waluigi, Baby Mario, Baby Luigi, Birdo, Bowser Jr., Lakitu, Toad, Wario, Pauline, Toadette, Shy Guy, Nabbit, Piranha Plant, Hammer Bro, Monty Mole, Dry Bones, Wiggler, Cataquack, Pianta, Sidestepper, and Cheep Cheep.
The game introduces new driving techniques that promise to enhance the gameplay experience. The Charge Jump feature allows players to evade attacks, reach new heights, and even ride along walls temporarily. Another standout addition is the Rewind mechanic, which enables players to retry challenging sections or improve their racing lines, though competitors will continue to move forward during rewinds, adding a strategic layer to this feature.
Mario Kart World Screenshots
View 120 Images
Races - Grand Prix and Knockout Tour
Mario Kart World offers two primary racing modes: the familiar Grand Prix and the innovative Knockout Tour. In Grand Prix, players compete across multiple races to clinch cups like the Mushroom Cup and Flower Cup, with a continuous transition between courses for a seamless experience. Completing all cups unlocks a challenging "colorful course," hinting at the iconic Rainbow Road, complete with new obstacles like bullet bill-shooting cars and Hammer Bros.
Knockout Tour introduces a battle royale-style race where players must reach checkpoints within set times or face elimination, culminating in thrilling finales like the Golden Rally and Ice Rally.
Mario Kart World Free Roam
The Free Roam mode allows players to explore Mario Kart World at their leisure, free from the pressure of competition. Players can activate hundreds of P Switches to collect blue coins and engage in skill-enhancing missions. Hidden treasures such as Peach Medallions and secret panels await discovery, and a Photo Mode captures memorable moments. Visiting Yoshi's restaurant offers "Dash Food" that boosts speed and provides themed outfits, adding a delightful culinary twist to the game.
Playing Mario Kart World with Friends
Nintendo has ensured that Mario Kart World is perfect for multiplayer fun, offering various play options. Up to four players can race on a single system, while local wireless play supports up to eight players across two systems. Online play accommodates up to 24 global competitors. Between races, players can explore the world with friends, participate in custom battles or races, and utilize Photo Mode together. GameChat enhances social interaction, allowing voice communication and live video reactions with compatible cameras.
Modes -----Beyond the main racing modes, Mario Kart World includes Time Trials with global ghost data competition, customizable VS Mode with team options, and the return of Battle Mode featuring Coin Runners and Balloon Battle.
Items
Alongside returning favorites like Bullet Bill and Lightning, Mario Kart World introduces new items such as the Coin Shell, which knocks rivals off course and leaves a trail of coins, the Ice Flower to freeze opponents, Hammers for attack and obstruction, the Mega Mushroom for size advantage, the Feather for evasion, and the Kamek item for mysterious transformations.
Support Features
To cater to players of all skill levels, Mario Kart World includes supportive features like Smart Steering, Tilt Controls compatible with the Joy-Con 2 wheel, Auto-Use Item, Auto-Accelerate, and adjustable camera settings, ensuring an inclusive and enjoyable experience for everyone.
For more insights, explore our hands-on preview of Mario Kart World, learn how Nintendo justifies the game's $80 price tag, and read our exclusive interview with Nintendo's Bill Trinen about the Nintendo Switch 2.
