Mario Kart World Confirms Return of Battle Mode on Nintendo Switch 2

Nintendo has officially confirmed that Mario Kart World will reintroduce the iconic Battle Mode in its highly anticipated release for Nintendo Switch 2, scheduled to launch on June 5, 2025.

The announcement came during the latest Nintendo Direct, captivating Mario Kart enthusiasts worldwide with news of returning fan-favorite features and classic maps. Mario Kart World, developed and published by Nintendo, marks a major new entry in one of gaming’s best-selling franchises.

The Mario Kart series has captivated players since its debut on the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, accumulating over 170 million unit sales across all platforms as of 2024.

With the unveiling of Mario Kart World, Nintendo aims to set new standards for the beloved racing series as it transitions into the next generation with Nintendo Switch 2. A primary highlight from the recent Nintendo Direct is the official return of Battle Mode, a staple of Mario Kart multiplayer experiences.

As outlined by Nintendo, “Battle Mode is back and more hectic than ever! Secure the gold by collecting the most coins in Coin Runners or burst your rivals' balloons with items in Balloon Battle.

If you pop all of your rival’s balloons, they are out!” For new and veteran players alike, Battle Mode offers two engaging sub-modes.

Balloon Battle, a classic since the series’ earliest days, challenges players to eliminate their opponents by launching items to burst their balloons.

Meanwhile, Coin Runners, first introduced in Mario Kart Wii, tasks racers with collecting as many coins as possible in dynamic arenas—with victory awarded to the player with the most coins at the end of the round. The showcase revealed that staple Battle Mode environments, including the memorable 'Big Donut' map, are set to return.

Additionally, the design will allow Balloon Battle and Coin Runners to unfold within both closed stages and newly designed open-world areas, further expanding gameplay possibilities on the Switch 2 hardware. Alongside Battle Mode’s revival, the Nintendo Direct confirmed that mission-based gameplay, last seen in previous Mario Kart installments, will also make a comeback.

One mission highlighted involved players searching for blue coins after activating a switch, integrating more objectives into the expansive world of Mario Kart. Mario Kart World will launch globally alongside Nintendo Switch 2, with both hardware and software releasing on June 5, 2025.

Fans can look forward to experiencing a reinvigorated Battle Mode, returning missions, and classic tracks reimagined for next-generation play. Stay tuned for more updates on Mario Kart World, Battle Mode details, and the latest developments from Nintendo Directs as the release date approaches.

Mario Kart Nintendo Switch 2 Mario Kart World Nintendo Battle Mode Balloon Battle Coin Runners Mario Switch 2 Switch Kart Nintendo Switch