Mario Kart World Breaks New Ground with Launch on Nintendo Switch 2

For the first time in franchise history, Mario Kart is launching day-and-date with a new Nintendo console.

Mario Kart World, developed and published by Nintendo, is set to arrive exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2, both physically and via the Nintendo eShop on June 5, 2025.

This milestone marks a significant moment for the highly successful Kart racing series, which traditionally has released well after a hardware's launch window.

The Mario Kart series is renowned as one of Nintendo's most popular and enduring franchises, with Mario Kart 8 Deluxe standing as the best-selling game on Nintendo Switch since releasing in 2017.

Now, with Mario Kart World, Nintendo introduces bold innovations designed to redefine the kart racing experience.

This new entry features an expanded lineup of both returning fan-favorites and fresh faces, including the Penguin from Super Mario 64, Sidestepper from Mario Bros., and even the Cow from fan-favorite track Moo Moo Meadows.

Some iconic characters, such as Diddy Kong and Petey Piranha, are absent at launch, but Nintendo has not ruled out additional content down the road. Gameplay in Mario Kart World represents the biggest evolution the series has seen.

For the first time, racers will find themselves in a semi-open world, dashing through diverse environments bursting with color and lively animation that further brings each character’s personality to life.

Players can look forward to exploring a variety of locales, whether racing through classic circuits or uncovering secrets scattered across the expansive world. The character customization options have also been enhanced, with racers able to switch outfits mid-race by collecting a new fast-food themed item.

Outfits range from pirate and biker gear to more whimsical options such as vampire or cowboy attire, all contributing to the playful and vibrant atmosphere. Mario Kart World introduces new gameplay items like the Golden Shell, which launches forward while leaving coins in its wake; the Kamek item that conjures obstacles onto the track; and the aforementioned fast-food bag for outfit changes.

Popular items from previous games, including hammers, coin blocks, and the Ice Flower, also make their return.

Races are now more dynamic, featuring up to 24 participants, significantly increasing the chaotic fun the series is known for.

Enhanced kart mechanics allow players to grind rails and ride along walls for strategic boosts, adding a layer of depth reminiscent of classic skating games. The Grand Prix mode has been overhauled.

Instead of the traditional four back-to-back races, players now drive between tracks, with each cup featuring a unique structure: after the initial three-lap race, competitors traverse a short journey to the next course, culminating in a single-lap finale.

This change injects variety and exploration into the classic kart-racing format. Knockout Tour mode capitalizes on the game's open environments, transforming races into intense rallies where the bottom four racers are eliminated at each checkpoint.

This creates a sense of mounting tension and excitement as the scenery shifts from deserts to canyons, meadows, and jungles, evoking the spirit of classic arcade racers. Additionally, Free Roam mode offers hundreds of challenges and collectibles scattered throughout Mario Kart World's varied environments, promising extensive replay value for dedicated fans. With Mario Kart World, Nintendo appears poised to kick off the Nintendo Switch 2 generation with another best-in-class racing experience.

Based on early hands-on impressions, the game’s blend of sweeping innovation and adherence to the franchise’s signature charm ensures it will be a must-play title when it launches worldwide on June 5, 2025.

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