Published on: April 17, 2025
Mario Kart World: Everything Revealed at the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct
Nintendo fans received an in-depth look at Mario Kart World during today's special Nintendo Direct, as the company shed light on the ambitious new entry launching for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.
The highly anticipated release is set to evolve the iconic racing series with significant innovations, including a large, interconnected open world and a multitude of new gameplay features, cementing Mario Kart World as one of the Nintendo Switch 2's most anticipated launch titles.
A New Open World Experience
For the first time in Mario Kart history, players will explore a fully interconnected open world, encouraging both solo and cooperative play.
In Mario Kart World, players can freely roam expansive environments, discovering hidden items, completing challenges, and unlocking new content.
Friends can join together on this adventure, making exploration, discovery, and competition more engaging than ever.
As detailed in the Nintendo Direct presentation, Mario Kart World features a variety of new activities, such as Mission Mode, impromptu battles, hidden panels, and an abundance of unlockables.
The open world incorporates an all-new race format called Knockout Tour.
In this event, racers compete in a point-to-point course, with the last few drivers eliminated after each lap.
This new approach to racing introduces fresh layers of strategy and excitement, setting Mario Kart World apart from its predecessors.
Robust Mission Mode Returns
One highlight from the Nintendo Direct was the return of Mission Mode, last seen in Mario Kart DS.
According to Nintendo, Mario Kart World will include "hundreds" of missions, offering a broad range of challenges that go beyond traditional kart racing.
While specific rewards for completing these missions have yet to be fully outlined, players can expect the mode to greatly extend replayability and deepen the single-player experience.
Unlockables, Customization, and Sharing Memories
Free Roam in Mario Kart World isn't just for show—it's the gateway to unlocking new vehicles and costumes.
As players drive through the world's many Drive-Thrus and Roll-Outs, they can instantly change costumes, which are then added to the character selection screen for future races.
Additionally, unique vehicles, such as a motorcycle inspired by ROB the Robot, can be discovered and used throughout the game, allowing for even greater racing variety.
The new trick system brings further depth, including a rewind feature that lets racers retry missed jumps, though this only affects the active player and not their opponents.
For devoted completionists and digital storytellers, the revamped Photo Mode enables players to capture and share their favorite moments from their open world adventures.
A True Next-Generation Racing Experience
With its innovative open world design, the resurgence of Mission Mode, and a wealth of customization options, Mario Kart World stands as a significant evolution for the franchise.
As a launch title for the Nintendo Switch 2, it promises to appeal to both longtime fans and new players alike.
While the price point has sparked discussion, the depth of content and ambitious features position Mario Kart World as a flagship title for Nintendo's new hardware debut.
Mario Kart World will be available via the Nintendo eShop and at retail locations alongside the release of Nintendo Switch 2.
Stay tuned for more updates as the launch date approaches.
Nintendo Switch 2 Mario Kart Nintendo Switch Mario Kart World Nintendo Mario Switch 2 Switch 2 Direct Switch Kart Nintendo Direct