Mario Kart World Direct: Switch 2 Launch Title Reveals

Nintendo's Mario Kart World Direct has unveiled a wealth of exciting details about the upcoming launch title for the Nintendo Switch 2, set to release on June 5, 2025. From new characters and courses to innovative gameplay mechanics, this Direct has left fans buzzing with anticipation. Here's a comprehensive look at everything you need to know to tide you over until the game's launch.

Mario Kart World introduces an expansive map featuring both new and reimagined classic courses. Among the highlights are Mario Bros. Circuit, Crown City, Salty Salty Speedway, Starview Peak, Boo Cinema, Toad's Factory, Peach Beach, and Wario Shipyard. These reimagined classics offer fresh experiences while maintaining the nostalgic feel that fans love.

Characters and New Techniques

With support for up to 24 racers per race, Mario Kart World boasts a diverse roster of characters. The Direct showcased familiar faces like Mario, Luigi, Peach, and Daisy, alongside unique additions such as Rocky Wrench, Conkdor, and Cataquack. New techniques such as the Charge Jump allow players to dodge attacks, reach higher places, and even grind on rails. Another exciting feature is the Rewind ability, which lets players retry a section of the race to explore hidden paths or perfect their turns. However, players must use this feature wisely as rivals continue to move normally during rewinds.

Mario Kart World Screenshots

View 120 ImagesRaces - Grand Prix and Knockout Tour

Mario Kart World offers two main racing modes: Grand Prix and Knockout Tour. Grand Prix follows the traditional format where players compete across multiple races to win cups like the Mushroom Cup and Flower Cup. The seamless transition between courses enhances the immersive experience. Completing all Grand Prix Cups unlocks a challenging "colorful course," hinting at the return of the iconic Rainbow Road with new obstacles like cars firing Bullet Bills and Hammer Bros. throwing hammers.

Knockout Tour introduces a battle-royale-style race where players must reach checkpoints in time to avoid elimination. The last racer standing wins in events like the Golden Rally and Ice Rally.

Mario Kart World Free Roam

Free Roam mode lets players explore the expansive world of Mario Kart without the pressure of racing. Discovering P Switches activates blue coins and missions to enhance skills outside of races. Hidden treasures like Peach Medallions and secret panels await exploration. Additionally, a photo mode allows players to capture memorable moments. Visiting Yoshi's restaurant offers "Dash Food" that boosts speed and provides themed outfits inspired by dishes like cheeseburgers, sushi, and pizza.

Playing Mario Kart World with Friends

Mario Kart World emphasizes multiplayer fun with various options. Four players can play on a single system, up to eight can join via local wireless, and up to 24 can compete online. Friends can also free roam together, battle, or race with custom rules. The Photo Mode is available for group shots, and GameChat enables voice and video communication, with the ability to detect up to four faces on a single system.

In addition to the main racing modes, players can enjoy Time Trials with online ghost data, customizable VS Mode with up to four teams, and the returning Battle Mode featuring Coin Runners and Balloon Battle.

Items

Mario Kart World brings back fan-favorite items like Bullet Bill and Lightning, alongside new additions. The Coin Shell knocks rivals off course and leaves a trail of coins, the Ice Flower freezes enemies, Hammers block paths, the Mega Mushroom enlarges players, the Feather allows jumping, and the Kamek item transforms players into mysterious forms.

Support Features

To cater to players of all skill levels, Mario Kart World includes support features like Smart Steering, Tilt Controls (compatible with Joy-Con 2 wheel), Auto-Use Item, Auto-Accelerate, and adjustable camera settings.

For more insights, check out our hands-on preview of Mario Kart World, analysis of its $80 price tag, and our exclusive interview with Nintendo's Bill Trinen about the Nintendo Switch 2.