Mario Kart World Direct April 2025: Playable Characters, Tracks, and Key Reveals

Nintendo fans tuned in worldwide on April 17th, 2025, for a dedicated Mario Kart World Direct, offering new details and confirmations about the highly anticipated racer set to launch on the Nintendo Switch 2.

While the 15-minute presentation kept a few surprises under wraps, it delivered key updates on tracks, playable characters, and what fans can expect from Mario Kart World, the latest entry in Nintendo's blockbuster racing franchise. Mario Kart World is being developed exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2, marking a significant evolution in the series with enhanced hardware capabilities promising smoother performance and expanded online features.

Since the title’s first unveiling during a previous Nintendo Direct, anticipation has skyrocketed among franchise fans and newcomers eager to see how Nintendo would push the Mario Kart series forward on its new-generation platform. One major reveal from the April Direct was the confirmation of 50 playable characters available at launch—a robust roster that surpasses previous Mario Kart offerings.

This expanded lineup allows for up to 24 racers to compete in a single race, embracing the Nintendo Switch 2’s improved processing power and online connectivity.

With access to various beloved characters from across Nintendo’s iconic franchises, players can look forward to heightened competition and more personalization on the track. The presentation also offered additional looks at several new and returning race tracks.

While Nintendo stopped short of listing every course, fans were treated to glimpses of visually upgraded classics alongside all-new locations designed to take advantage of the Switch 2’s graphical enhancements.

According to an official press statement, each track has been optimized for smoother gameplay and more immersive environments, underscoring Nintendo’s commitment to delivering both nostalgia and innovation. Although the Direct focused on Mario Kart World, another highlight emerged related to Nintendo’s platform history.

Nightdive Studios addressed the much-discussed saga around the proposed GoldenEye 007 remaster, clarifying why their vision for the fan-favorite shooter did not come to fruition.

This comes after the surprise 2023 release of GoldenEye 007 for Nintendo Switch Online and Xbox One, marking the first time the legendary N64 title saw an official port since its original debut over 25 years ago. With Mario Kart World’s release window approaching and the Nintendo Switch 2 promising significant advancements in both performance and connectivity, the recent Direct has cemented the upcoming title as a must-watch for the 2025 Nintendo calendar.

As more information emerges—including final track rosters, multiplayer details, and potential cross-platform features—fans are encouraged to stay tuned to official Nintendo channels for the latest updates about Mario Kart World on Nintendo Switch 2.

Nintendo Mario Kart World Nintendo Direct Nintendo Switch 2 Nightdive Studios GoldenEye 007