Mario Kart World Launches with Switch 2: Open World, Knockout Mode, and 24 Racers Confirmed
[May 27, 2025 | Earthtechy Gaming News Desk]
Mario Kart World Races Into Open-World Chaos with Nintendo Switch 2
Nintendo is pushing the pedal to the metal with its biggest Mario Kart game yet — and it’s redefining the franchise in the process.
A New Chapter in Mario Kart History
Mario Kart isn’t just a game; it’s a global phenomenon. Since the early ‘90s, this franchise has entertained millions with its high-octane racing and iconic characters. Now, Nintendo is ready to take things to a whole new level with Mario Kart World, the official launch title for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, hitting stores on June 5, 2025.
This isn’t a sequel. It’s a revolution.
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What Is Mario Kart World?
Mario Kart World marks a major genre leap for the series. For the first time ever, the game blends classic kart racing with an open-world structure. Rather than selecting isolated tracks, players can drive across a seamlessly connected world, visiting iconic biomes ranging from desert canyons and haunted cinemas to neon-lit cities and frosty peaks.
Nintendo proudly calls it their largest Mario Kart game to date, and judging by the feature set, it’s easy to see why.
Launch Details & Pricing Breakdown
The launch lineup includes:
- Mario Kart World (Game Only): $79.99
- Nintendo Switch 2 + Game Bundle: $499.99
(Includes full digital game, Switch 2 console, and exclusive kart decals)
Preorders are now open via Nintendo’s official store and major retailers. No confirmed pre-order bonuses yet, but fans are expecting in-game perks or exclusive outfits.
Key Gameplay Features
Open World Exploration
Say goodbye to menus and hello to driving between races. In Mario Kart World, the overworld is your track. Regions are densely packed with missions, scenic viewpoints, collectible secrets, and even environmental puzzles. Whether you want to tackle a snowy shortcut or glide off a cliffside, exploration is encouraged.
Free Roam Mode lets players explore solo or in co-op, unlocking content organically.
Innovative New Modes
- Grand Prix Reimagined: Still features four-race cups, but now includes the journey between race points. It’s part racing, part travel adventure.
- Knockout Tour: A tense elimination race across the world map. Miss checkpoints, and you’re out. Think Mario Kart meets battle royale.
- Battle Mode Returns: Coin Runners and Balloon Battle are back, now with more arenas and chaos.
- VS Mode & Time Trials: For purists who want quick thrills or time-shaving challenges.
Multiplayer Like Never Before
Nintendo has massively expanded online play:
- Online Races: Up to 24 players in Grand Prix and Knockout Tour.
- Local Wireless: Connect up to 8 players (2 per console).
- Split-Screen: Classic 4-player couch play remains intact.
A big highlight is GameChat, which allows real-time voice communication without needing Switch Online (until March 2026). The CameraPlay feature lets your face appear on-screen via Switch 2’s optional camera, reacting to your in-game moments.
Characters & Vehicles
Along with beloved racers like Mario, Luigi, Peach, and Bowser, the game adds quirky new faces like:
- Goomba – no arms, no problem
- Spike – now in a racer’s seat
- The Cow – straight out of Moo Moo Meadows
As for rides, the variety is wild:
- Jet Skis for ocean travel
- Snowmobiles for slippery slopes
- Hovering Karts for aerial navigation
Customization is deeper than ever, with unlockable parts, paint jobs, and drive-thru outfits from fictional fast-food joints like Yoshi’s Dash Food.
Items, Power-Ups & Abilities
Mario Kart World introduces several inventive power-ups:
- Coin Shell – speeds you up while spinning out rivals
- Ice Flower – freeze enemies in their tracks
- Kamek’s Magic – chaotic spell-casting randomness
- Mega Mushroom – stomp the competition, literally
New gameplay mechanics make races feel fresh and strategic:
- Charge Jump for launching off ramps
- Rail Grinding for boost-filled shortcuts
- Wall-Riding on vertical surfaces
- Rewind (limited use) lets you retry key sections while others keep racing
Visual Upgrades & Technical Enhancements
Built for the Nintendo Switch 2, Mario Kart World boasts:
- Dynamic weather (rain, fog, lightning)
- Real-time day/night cycles
- Ray-traced reflections and upgraded shaders
- Overhauled legacy tracks like Mario Bros. Circuit and Crown City
A full-featured Photo Mode lets you pause the action, reposition the camera, and snap high-res shots of your custom kart, favorite view, or perfect drift.
Accessibility & Community Features
Nintendo continues its commitment to inclusive gameplay:
- Smart Steering to help new racers stay on track
- Auto-Accelerate and Tilt Controls for young or casual players
- Joy-Con Wheel 2 support for enhanced immersion
Difficulty and control settings can be toggled anytime, making it fun for both pros and newcomers.
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Why Mario Kart World Matters
Nintendo isn’t just launching a game—they’re setting the tone for the next generation of console gaming.
With Mario Kart 8 Deluxe sitting at over 60 million units sold, expectations are sky-high. Mario Kart World isn’t just aiming to meet those numbers; it’s gunning to redefine what a kart racing game can be in 2025.
This is not just the start of Switch 2—it’s a milestone for the franchise.
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Final Thoughts
Mario Kart World is shaping up to be more than a racing game—it’s a genre-blending experience that mixes exploration, competition, and nostalgia into one chaotic, colorful adventure. From the moment you pick up the controller to the final stretch of a 24-player Knockout Tour, every race tells a story.
Release Date: June 5, 2025
Platforms: Nintendo Switch 2
Price: $79.99 (standalone), $499.99 (Switch 2 bundle)
