Mario Kart World: Japanese Tier List Highlights Top Characters After Launch

Just days after the global launch of Mario Kart World on the Nintendo Switch, Japanese players have sparked community discussions by publishing a comprehensive tier list ranking the game's most powerful characters.

Developed and published by Nintendo, Mario Kart World introduces an expanded roster, building upon the beloved legacy of the Mario Kart franchise.

With worldwide online multiplayer and new gameplay mechanics, the competitive scene was quick to analyze which characters dominate the tracks. According to compiled rankings circulating among Japanese players, the coveted Tier S—representing the best characters in Mario Kart World—features Wario, Waluigi, Donkey Kong, Wiggler, Chargin’ Chuck, Pianta, Cow, and Bowser.

A notable trend is that nearly all Tier S characters fall into the heavyweight category, renowned for their impressive top speeds and commanding on-track presence.

This design choice continues a familiar pattern from previous entries in the series, such as Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, where heavyweights like Waluigi consistently secured top spots in online competition.

As a result, Nintendo fans are likely to encounter these characters frequently in high-level online races. Tier A, immediately following Tier S, includes Rosalina, King Boo, Piranha Plant, Monty Mole, Cataquack, Conkdor, and Snowman.

Similar to Tier S, many of these are heavyweights, which highlights the persistent advantage held by this character type in Mario Kart World’s gameplay balance.

For players striving for competitive edge, these characters offer robust performance, particularly in courses favoring speed and acceleration. Mario Kart World was released exclusively for the Nintendo Switch and joined the platform’s extensive eShop lineup on its official launch date.

Following its launch, the game quickly gained momentum among both casual and hardcore gamers, thanks in part to its tight controls, visually dynamic tracks, and the ongoing support by Nintendo through online events and leaderboard integration. Competitive Mario Kart has always thrived on community-driven strategies, and this initial tier list from Japanese players provides valuable insight for those looking to maximize their performance in online multiplayer races.

As the meta evolves and balance adjustments potentially roll out, these rankings may see shifts, but for now, heavyweights are proving to be the dominating force in Mario Kart World’s competitive arena. Players eager to gain an edge in Mario Kart World should consider the top-tier characters highlighted by early data from Japanese rankings.

Continual updates from Nintendo and feedback from the international community promise a dynamic future for the game on the Nintendo Switch.

Mario Kart Mario Kart World Mario Kart Nintendo Nintendo Switch Wario Waluigi Donkey Kong Wiggler Chargin’ Chuck Pianta Cow Bowser Rosalina King Boo Piranha Plant Monty Mole Cataquack Conkdor Snowman