Mario Kart World Unlock Guide: How Characters, Costumes, and Karts Are Earned

Mario Kart World Unlock Guide: Comprehensive Details from Nintendo Direct Nintendo has lifted the veil on Mario Kart World, the highly anticipated racing title for the Nintendo Switch.

As franchise fans eagerly await its launch, Nintendo has gradually revealed how players will unlock the roster of characters, costumes, and karts.

The latest Nintendo Direct and hands-on previews have shed new light on the game's reward systems, giving players a clear idea of what to expect when Mario Kart World hits the eShop later this year. Unlocking Characters in Mario Kart World From its initial announcement, Mario Kart World promised a robust selection of drivers, with numerous classic and fresh faces to race with.

However, the method to unlock all these characters remained uncertain until now.

According to our hands-on experience and details from the April 17, 2025 Nintendo Direct, character unlocks involve exploration and in-race events. Players can encounter new characters by meeting them within the game's free roam map.

Interaction with these drivers may add them to your playable roster.

Additionally, the magician-like Magikoopa, Kamek, introduces a unique element during races; when Kamek deploys his magic, he has the power to transform racers into other characters.

If a player is changed into a character they don't already have, that character will join their collection at the race's conclusion.

These features encourage exploration and experimentation on the track, reflecting Nintendo’s ongoing commitment to innovation in Mario Kart's game design.

It’s worth noting that, despite ongoing community speculation, collecting Dash Food items does not unlock new characters, as clarified in both the Nintendo Direct presentation and first-hand gameplay experiences. How to Unlock Costumes Mario Kart World introduces a variety of character costumes and alternate outfits, broadening customization beyond previous games.

Each course features special areas named Yoshi’s, where racers can pick up a Dash Food item.

Racing through these locations triggers a temporary speed boost and equips a randomized new costume on the spot.

Once a player attains a new costume, it is permanently available for future use.

This system infuses every race with excitement, as costume unlocks are both functional and visually rewarding. Kart Unlocks: More Rides, Less Customization While kart customization—a staple in prior Mario Kart entries—has been removed in Mario Kart World, players will still discover numerous distinct vehicles.

Several karts are accessible from the beginning, with additional options unlocked through in-game achievements.

Nintendo confirms that collecting coins during races will tally toward unlocking these new rides, rewarding dedicated players with a broader selection as they reach specific coin milestones. Release and Ongoing Updates All the unlock information provided is based on official communications from the Mario Kart World Direct Broadcast held on April 17, 2025, and verified hands-on previews.

Nintendo emphasizes that additional unlock methods or surprises may emerge at launch.

Once Mario Kart World is released on Nintendo Switch, expect a full breakdown of all unlockables and gameplay features. Stay tuned for more official updates and in-depth guides as Nintendo’s iconic racing series shifts into a new gear with Mario Kart World.

Mario Kart Mario Kart World Nintendo Mario Kart Nintendo Switch Switch