Mario Kart World Direct Delivers In-Depth Look at New Tracks, Modes, and Features for Nintendo Switch 2 Launch

Nintendo has officially revved up anticipation for its next-generation platform by dedicating an entire Nintendo Direct to Mario Kart World, the much-awaited launch title for the Nintendo Switch 2.

Broadcast on April 17, 2025, at 6am PT, the 15-minute Mario Kart World Direct provided fans and industry watchers with a comprehensive tour through the game’s new tracks, modes, and significant improvements, all slated to arrive alongside the hardware's worldwide release on June 5. A Deep Dive into Mario Kart World on Switch 2 The Mario Kart World Direct showcased a sweeping overview of both classic and brand-new courses that await players.

Fans of the franchise can look forward to innovative new tracks such as Mario Bros.

Circuit, Crown City, Salty Salty Speedway, Starview Peak, and the atmospheric Boo Cinema—which notably features a Dracula Waluigi theme.

Series staples aren’t being left behind, with beloved courses like Toad’s Factory, Peach Beach, and Wario Shipyards making triumphant returns.

Remastered and day-or-night racing versions further enhance the world’s scope, providing new ways for both veterans and newcomers to experience familiar favorites. Expansive Character Roster and Game Modes A significant portion of the Nintendo Direct highlighted the broad character roster.

Mario, Luigi, Peach, Bowser, and Yoshi are confirmed, alongside unexpected additions like Goomba, Spike, Cow, and Lakitu, creating one of the most varied driver line-ups yet in the Mario Kart series. Core gameplay is bolstered by two principal race types: Grand Prix and Knockout Modes.

Both modes now accommodate up to 24 racers, introducing larger, more competitive events.

In Grand Prix, players race across four courses in each cup, but uniquely, must now drive between tracks rather than being automatically placed at starting grids.

The Direct also teased the classic Rainbow Road as the ultimate Cup unlock. The Knockout Tour mode embraces elimination gameplay, with races such as Golden Rally and Spiny Rally eliminating the bottom four racers at checkpoints. Items, Accessibility, and New Mechanics Long-time Mario Kart fans will notice returning and new items, including the Coin Shell, Ice Flower, Hammer, and Mega Mushroom, along with legacy power-ups such as the Feather and Kamek transformations. Nintendo also reaffirmed its commitment to accessibility.

Smart Steering, Auto-accelerate, and Tilt Controls return, ensuring playability for everyone.

A new snack system lets players collect regional foods from in-game drive-thrus to unlock themed costumes, adding a layer of cosmetic customization. A game-changing addition, the Charge Jump, allows players to charge turbo boosts in straight lines and perform wall rides.

Another standout feature is the ability to Rewind mid-race, letting players retry tricky maneuvers—though opponents continue moving, so timing is critical.

This innovation is available in both Free Roam and traditional race settings. Robust Multiplayer and Free Roam Exploration Local multiplayer supports four-player splitscreen, while wireless connectivity links up to eight Switch 2 consoles for 16-player matches.

Online modes boast up to 24 competitors per race, with support for GameChat and integration with the Switch 2's camera for real-time video during gameplay. Mario Kart World also features an expansive Free Roam mode.

Players can explore iconic settings like Bob-omb's Battlefield, discovering P-Switch missions and hidden collectibles such as the Peach Medallion.

The enhanced Photo Mode lets players capture and customize in-game moments with unique frames and poses. Returning fan-favorite modes include Time Trials—now with downloadable Ghost data—VS Race with new team formats, and Balloon Battle and Coin Runners in Battle Mode. Looking Ahead With Mario Kart World set for release alongside the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5, 2025, this focused Nintendo Direct has raised expectations for both hardware and software launches.

For updates, guides, and feature coverage on Nintendo’s latest racing spectacle and Switch 2 developments, stay tuned for more details as launch day approaches.

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