Published on: May 25, 2025
Mario Kart World introduces the franchise’s most extensive lineup of playable characters to date, with a unique system that categorizes racers as either main characters or obstacle characters.
Developed and published by Nintendo, Mario Kart World continues the beloved series’ tradition of vibrant competition and inventive mechanics, making it a standout title on the Nintendo Switch.
Since its announcement, fans have eagerly anticipated the expanded roster and new character unlock features, further enriching the iconic Mario Kart experience enjoyed worldwide.
Expanded Mario Kart World Character Roster
Nintendo has confirmed that Mario Kart World features a roster comprising 24 main characters and 26 obstacle characters, signaling the largest selection ever for the series.
Main characters include fan-favorites such as Mario, Luigi, Peach, Bowser, Daisy, Donkey Kong, Toad, Yoshi, Rosalina, Wario, Waluigi, Toadette, Pauline, and more.
Players can choose from these main racers from the start or unlock them as they progress.
Unlocking Main Characters and Customization Options
Main characters in Mario Kart World can typically be selected when beginning the game.
However, select characters might require players to meet specific criteria before unlocking them.
A defining feature exclusive to main characters is the ability to earn new outfits by consuming Dash Food at Yoshi’s outpost.
Notably, unlocking new outfits is limited to main characters only, offering an added layer of customization and replay value for dedicated players.
The confirmed main character roster includes:
- Mario
- Luigi
- Peach
- Bowser
- Donkey Kong
- Toad
- Yoshi
- Daisy
- Rosalina
- Wario
- Waluigi
- Toadette
- Pauline
- Bowser Jr.
- Koopa Troopa
- Shy Guy
- Lakitu
- Birdo
- King Boo
- Baby Mario
- Baby Luigi
- Baby Peach
- Baby Daisy
- Baby Rosalina
Innovative Obstacle Characters: A Mario Kart First
Mario Kart World adds a powerful twist to the series by making obstacle characters playable for the first time.
Traditionally encountered as hazards on the racetrack, these characters are now unlockable and add a fresh dimension to the gameplay.
To play as an obstacle character, racers must be struck by a Kamek item during the race—a mechanic that will temporarily transform their character.
If the obstacle character is new to the player’s roster, they become a permanent selection for future races.
Unlike main characters, obstacle characters do not feature alternative outfits, and their unlock is strictly tied to the Kamek item mechanic.
Notable obstacle characters include Dry Bones, Piranha Plant, Wiggler, Hammer Bro, Monty Mole, Goomba, Spike, Cheep Cheep, and many others, totaling 26 unique entries.
How to Unlock Obstacle Characters
To unlock an obstacle character in Mario Kart World:
- Get hit by a Kamek item during a race.
This spell will transform your racer into a random obstacle character, which is then added to your playable roster if it hasn’t been unlocked yet.
- The Kamek item is most commonly awarded to players in positions further back, increasing the chance for leaders to be struck and therefore unlock new characters.
The confirmed obstacle character roster includes:
- Dry Bones
- Piranha Plant
- Wiggler
- Hammer Bro
- Monty Mole
- Goomba
- Spike
- Cheep Cheep
- Para-BiddyBud
- Pokey
- Coin Coffer
- Chargin' Chuck
- Nabbit
- Pianta
- Rocky Wrench
- Conkdor
- Stingby
- Swoop
- Peepa
- Fish Bone
- Cataquack
- Cow
- Penguin
- Sidestepper
- Dolphin
- Snowman
Mario Kart World continues to push the boundaries on the Nintendo Switch, offering an unprecedented level of variety and challenge for players old and new.
As official updates are released, fans can expect further enhancements to the character roster and unlock systems, solidifying Mario Kart World as a must-play entry in Nintendo’s legendary racing series.
Mario Kart Nintendo Switch Mario Kart World Nintendo Mario Switch Kart Kamek Yoshi