Mario Kart World on Nintendo Switch 2: Content Revealed, Track List, and Character Roster Analysis

Since its high-profile unveiling during the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, Mario Kart World has captured widespread attention and enthusiasm from the gaming industry and fans alike.

Developed by Nintendo as the flagship racing game for the next-generation Nintendo Switch 2 hardware, Mario Kart World promises a significant evolution in the beloved franchise.

While most feedback is positive, conversations persist about its $80 price tag and whether unrevealed characters or tracks will be available at launch. Mario Kart World Track List: What’s Confirmed Nintendo has taken an open approach in showcasing Mario Kart World’s content leading up to release.

The company has confirmed a total of 30 courses as of the latest Nintendo Direct, with additional routes in areas such as Crown City and Peach Stadium.

Counting both unique routes, the current total climbs to 32 courses.

All of these are integrated into the game’s expansive open world, a design choice that allows seamless exploration but could complicate future additions via updates or DLC. Notably, Rainbow Road—one of the series’ most iconic tracks—returns as a space-based course and was hinted at in recent promotional materials.

While Rainbow Road’s disconnected setting could theoretically open the door for additional off-world tracks, Nintendo has not confirmed any hidden courses within the base game. Character Roster: 50 Playable Characters Announced Nintendo has also provided clear details regarding the playable character roster.

With 50 confirmed unique characters—including fan favorites like Nabbit, Pauline, and Pianta, and more whimsical picks such as Sidestepper, Snowman, and Fish Bone—the lineup is robust compared to previous entries in the series.

However, some notable absentees at launch include King Bob-omb, Kamek, the Miis, and Diddy Kong—an omission especially noticeable given Diddy Kong’s recent visual update. Most enemy-type characters, such as Cheep Cheep and Conkdor, are unlockable through gameplay, but according to official pre-release content, these characters do not have alternative outfits.

Should Nintendo introduce new characters through future updates, these additions may also lack customization options upon arrival. Nintendo’s History of Revealing Content Prior to Launch Nintendo’s strategy with Mario Kart games historically favors transparency.

For example, pre-release materials for Mario Kart 8 disclosed key features like anti-gravity mechanics, kart customization, and the full selection of characters and tracks.

This trend continued with Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, where all new characters, modes, and vehicles were outlined before launch.

Based on this precedent, it is unlikely that Mario Kart World is concealing significant content, though Nintendo’s strategies could evolve as the game industry changes. Post-Launch Updates and DLC Potential While details about additional content and downloadable content (DLC) remain unconfirmed, discussion around Mario Kart World’s longevity is warranted.

With the Nintendo Switch 2 marking a new console generation, fans can expect Mario Kart World to be a cornerstone title.

In recent years, adding characters and tracks via free or paid updates has become industry standard, providing new incentives for player engagement.

Nintendo has typically updated its flagship games with fresh content to keep them relevant. Final Thoughts: Are Hidden Surprises Still Possible? While the likelihood of hidden tracks or characters in Mario Kart World’s launch version appears slim, the possibility remains until the full release.

For now, Nintendo has stated that most content has been revealed, adhering to its established pattern of transparency.

As Mario Kart World gears up for release, fans can explore the official website and Nintendo eShop for the latest updates and information.

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