Nintendo's latest Direct presentation has given fans an extensive look at Mario Kart World, the highly anticipated racing title set to launch alongside the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5, 2025. This 15-minute showcase revealed a wealth of information about what could be the biggest evolution in the Mario Kart franchise to date, featuring an open-world design, 24-player races, and numerous gameplay innovations.
Mario Kart World Key Details
- Release Date: June 5, 2025
- Platform: Nintendo Switch 2 (launch title)
- Price: USD $80
- Max Players: 24 players online, 4 players on single system, 8 players via local wireless
- New Courses Shown: Mario Bros. Circuit, Crown City, Salty Salty Speedway, Starview Peak, Boo Cinema
- Returning Courses Shown: Toad's Factory, Peach Beach, Wario Shipyard
- New Items: Kamek, Feather, Ice Flower, Coin Shell, Mega Mushroom, Hammer
- New Techniques: Charge Jump, Rewind
A Truly Open World Mario Kart Experience
Mario Kart World represents a significant departure from the traditional formula by introducing a connected map that players can freely explore. Unlike previous entries where races were separated by menu screens, racers will now drive from course to course in a seamless open world. The Free Roam mode allows players to explore at their leisure, discovering hidden challenges like P Switches that activate blue coin collections, hidden panels, and special medallions. This exploration-focused approach extends to multiplayer, where friends can roam together between races, fast travel to each other's locations, and even use the new photo mode to capture memorable moments.
Expanded Racing with New Courses and Characters
The Direct showcased eight of the game's courses, including both new and reimagined classics. New tracks like Mario Bros. Circuit, Crown City, Salty Salty Speedway, and Boo Cinema will appear alongside revamped favorites such as Toad's Factory, Peach Beach, and Wario Shipyard. Nintendo has redesigned returning courses to fit naturally within the game's connected world structure. The presentation also hinted that completing all Grand Prix cups would unlock a colorful course that almost certainly refers to the series' iconic Rainbow Road.
Revolutionary Gameplay Mechanics
Two new techniques promise to transform how players approach races. The Charge Jump allows racers to leap into the air to avoid obstacles, reach higher areas, and even grind on rails or briefly ride on walls. Even more game-changing is the new Rewind feature, which lets players retry a recent maneuver without resetting the entire race. This creates strategic opportunities but comes with risk, as rival racers continue moving normally during a rewind, potentially putting players in worse positions if used carelessly.
Expanded Multiplayer and Battle Options
Mario Kart World supports up to 24 racers in online play, a substantial increase from previous entries. Local multiplayer options include four-player split-screen on a single system and up to eight players via local wireless connection. The game introduces GameChat functionality, allowing players to communicate with friends and even see live video reactions for those with compatible cameras. Traditional modes like Time Trials, VS Mode with customizable rules, and Battle Mode featuring Coin Runners and Balloon Battle all return with enhancements.
New Items and Competitive Modes
Six new items were highlighted during the Direct, including the Coin Shell that knocks rivals off course while leaving a trail of collectible coins, the Ice Flower for freezing enemies, and the Kamek item that transforms opponents into various objects. The presentation also introduced Knockout Tour, a battle-royale style mode where players race across the map while trying to reach checkpoints before elimination, with the last driver standing crowned the winner.
Accessibility and Support Features
Nintendo continues its commitment to making Mario Kart accessible to players of all skill levels with features like Smart Steering, Tilt Controls (compatible with the new Joy-Con 2 wheel), Auto-Use Item, and Auto-Accelerate. Players can also adjust both vertical and horizontal camera settings to suit their preferences. These options ensure that newcomers can enjoy the game while veterans can customize their experience for maximum challenge.
Game Modes
- Grand Prix: Traditional cup-based racing with seamless transitions between tracks
- Knockout Tour: Battle royale-style racing with checkpoint eliminations
- Free Roam: Open exploration of the connected world map
- Time Trials: Race against ghost data, including online competitors
- VS Mode: Customizable races with up to four different teams
- Battle Mode: Includes Coin Runners and Balloon Battle
Premium Pricing for a Premium Experience
With a price tag of USD $80, Mario Kart World commands a premium over typical Nintendo titles. Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser has expressed hope that the Direct presentation would convince players of the game's value proposition. Based on the extensive features showcased, Nintendo is positioning Mario Kart World as a flagship title worthy of its launch status for the next-generation Switch 2 console.