Nintendo Adjusts Mario Kart World Online Racing: Three-Lap Races Now Harder to Find

Nintendo has introduced a notable update to Mario Kart World’s online multiplayer, significantly impacting how players access standard three-lap races in public lobbies.

Mario Kart World, renowned for its high-speed racing and massive multiplayer appeal, is one of the Nintendo Switch’s most recognized racing titles.

Since launch, its online mode has closely mirrored the mechanics of previous franchise entries, allowing gamers to lobby together, vote for their favorite tracks, and compete in fast-paced, three-lap races classic to the Mario Kart experience. However, as of version 1.1.2—recently datamined and confirmed by community member OatmealDeal—Nintendo has altered how online course selection works.

Previously, public lobbies granted players the ability to steer clear of so-called "intermission" tracks by choosing the "Random" option at the end of each race.

This feature had consistently paired players with traditional three-lap races, which remain the preferred mode of play among the majority of the Mario Kart community. With the 1.1.2 update, the Random selection now includes both classic three-lap tracks and the new intermission courses introduced in Mario Kart World.

These intermission tracks, a fresh addition to the franchise, challenge racers to traverse expansive stretches between primary courses, reflecting the game’s innovative embrace of an open-world map.

While these transitions offer over 200 possible route combinations, some players have described them as lengthy, straightforward segments that detract from the core racing excitement. Nintendo acknowledged this change was intended to ensure a broader rotation of available tracks.

"To create a diverse and engaging online experience, we've updated our Random option to feature all types of courses available in Mario Kart World," a company spokesperson shared.

This shift now means that the only fully reliable way to race solely on three-lap courses online is to create a private match with friends—a move met with mixed reception among fans seeking traditional gameplay in public settings. Mario Kart World continues to see support and fresh content through Nintendo Switch Online, including new icon updates and frequent events.

The game’s evolving roster of courses, including potential additions like 200cc mode and scheduled tournaments such as the Mario Kart World Invitational, demonstrates Nintendo’s ongoing commitment to the title on its flagship platform. This update is evidence of Nintendo’s desire to balance innovation with series tradition, though the response from veterans highlights the importance of player choice in shaping the future of multiplayer racing on the Nintendo Switch.

As Mario Kart World adapts, its passionate player base will be watching closely to see how these updates influence the game’s ongoing popularity in the Nintendo Switch ecosystem.

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