Published on: June 04, 2025
Mario Kart World: Full Starting Character Roster and Unlock Criteria Revealed
Nintendo continues its legacy of delivering action-packed racing with Mario Kart World for the Nintendo Switch.
Building on the franchise’s vibrant legacy, Mario Kart World allows up to 24 racers per track—a record for the series—while giving players a robust lineup of classic and new faces to race as.
As anticipation for the game’s worldwide release intensifies, many fans are curious about the full starting character roster and the methods for unlocking additional racers.
Here, we break down all the confirmed details based on early verified playthroughs and official information from Nintendo.
Starting Character Roster: 12 Racers Across All Weight Classes
Mario Kart World provides immediate access to a diverse roster of 12 characters, spread evenly across different weight classes to accommodate various playstyles.
The starting lineup consists of franchise staples and beloved favorites: Mario, Luigi, Peach, Bowser, Yoshi, Toad, Wario, Waluigi, Pauline, Koopa Troopa, Baby Mario, and Baby Luigi.
This spread ensures newcomers and long-time fans alike can find their preferred racer from the very beginning.
Unlockable Characters: Achievement-Based Rewards
Mario Kart World rewards player progression through unlockable racers, a mechanic that adds longevity and replay value to the title.
Unlike previous iterations, obtaining these additional racers requires players to achieve specific milestones within the Grand Prix mode:
- Donkey Kong: Unlocked by securing victory in the Mushroom Cup Grand Prix.
- Daisy: Unlocked after completing the Flower Cup Grand Prix.
- Rosalina: Rewarded for triumphing in the Star Cup Grand Prix.
- Bowser Jr.: Earned upon winning the Lightning Cup Grand Prix.
- Lakitu: Released after finishing first in the Shell Cup Grand Prix.
- Birdo: Granted upon completion of the Banana Cup Grand Prix.
- King Boo: Available once players complete the Leaf Cup Grand Prix.
Some additional characters, such as Toadette, Shy Guy, Baby Peach, Baby Daisy, and Baby Rosalina, remain shrouded in mystery regarding their exact unlock criteria.
Nintendo has yet to disclose the methods for unlocking these racers, and more information will be made available in upcoming official updates and comprehensive character guides.
Competitive Depth and Replay Value
With its expanded roster and ambitious 24-player racing format, Mario Kart World on Nintendo Switch offers both depth and accessibility.
Its character unlocking system encourages players to engage with Grand Prix cups, providing tangible rewards for skillful play and dedication.
As always, Nintendo’s well-balanced approach ensures a fair racing experience across all available characters.
For continued updates on Mario Kart World’s character unlock guide and in-depth gameplay analyses, keep an eye on this space and refer to the latest Nintendo Direct presentations and official news releases.
Mario Kart Nintendo Switch Mario Kart World Nintendo Mario Switch Kart Grand Prix Luigi Peach Bowser Pauline Wario Waluigi Toad Yoshi Baby Mario Baby Luigi Koopa Troopa Donkey Kong Daisy Rosalina Bowser Jr. Lakitu Birdo King Boo