Mario Kart World Reveals Classic Battle Mode and More in Latest Nintendo Direct

Nintendo has once again ignited excitement within the gaming community, unveiling pivotal details for Mario Kart World during their most recent Nintendo Direct.

Developed exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2, the highly anticipated installment in the famed racing franchise is set for release on June 5, with a retail price of $79.99.

Longtime fans and newcomers alike can look forward to a robust suite of game modes, including the acclaimed return of Battle Mode alongside fresh gameplay features and classic racing action.

Mario Kart World will launch with three core modes: Time Trial, VS (Versus) Mode, and the highly requested Battle Mode.

Each offers a unique avenue for competition and replayability, cementing Nintendo’s legacy of innovation within the kart-racing genre.

Time Trial Mode continues its tradition of speed-based racing, allowing players to dash through tracks across three laps while competing against ghost data recorded from other players globally.

This ensures an ever-evolving challenge as the community shares their best performances over Nintendo’s online infrastructure.

The headline reveal centers on the revival of Battle Mode, a fan-favorite feature that has been an integral part of the franchise.

This classic mode includes the revered Balloon Battle, where racers vie to outlast each other by targeting their opponents’ balloons with signature items until only one kart remains.

Alongside, the Coin Battle mode tasks players with amassing the most coins before the clock runs out, ushering in an added layer of strategy and competition.

Both variants are expected to deliver the frantic, multiplayer fun that has defined the series since its inception. Versus Mode provides even greater levels of customization and replay value.

Racers can select their preferred speed class—ranging from 50cc up to the intense 150cc—as well as form teams of up to four.

Gamers have control over item frequency, CPU opponent difficulty, track selection, and the total number of races in a session.

Following progression through the primary modes, players will unlock both Grand Prix and Survival options, further expanding the roster of race experiences available. Mario Kart World is set to launch exclusively via the Nintendo eShop and physical retailers for the Nintendo Switch 2.

As one of the flagship titles for Nintendo’s next-generation hardware, anticipation for its June 5 release continues to grow.

With the confirmed return of staple modes and new customization features, Mario Kart World is poised to extend Nintendo’s storied leadership in the racing game space. For full details on gameplay modes and additional announcements, fans are encouraged to review the official Mario Kart World Direct broadcast dated April 17, 2025.

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