Mario Kart World Speeds Onto Switch 2 at Launch—with Massive Changes to the Formula

Earlier this week, Nintendo officially unveiled the next entry in its iconic racing franchise: Mario Kart World. The game will launch alongside the new Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5, and it’s shaping up to be the boldest evolution the series has seen in decades.

Originally teased during the Switch 2 reveal back in January, Mario Kart World was fully detailed in a dedicated Nintendo Direct, giving fans their first real look at what’s in store—and it’s a lot.

From Tracks to an Open World

The biggest shake-up? Traditional isolated tracks are out. In their place, Mario Kart World introduces a sprawling, interconnected racing environment. Courses now flow into each other naturally, allowing for continuous, immersive gameplay rather than segmented circuits.

Even more groundbreaking is the introduction of Free Roam mode, which lets players leave the track entirely to explore the wider game world. According to Nintendo, this mode allows players to:

“Drive in any direction you wish, explore areas that pique your interest, and take some photos at scenic spots with a group of friends.”

It’s a massive departure from the standard lap-and-finish-line setup—and it looks like Nintendo is aiming for something closer to an open-world karting experience.

24 Racers, Jet Skis, and... a Cow?

Mario Kart World will feature the largest number of simultaneous racers in franchise history, supporting up to 24 players in a single race. Alongside staples like Mario, Luigi, Peach, and Toad, the trailer teased some unexpected newcomers—including what appears to be a cow racer. (Because why not?)

And it’s not just about karts anymore. Players will race across a variety of terrain using jet skis, snowmobiles, and more, opening up new ways to navigate the environment. Gameplay footage also showed off fresh mechanics like rail grinding and wall running, hinting at more verticality and dynamic course layouts than ever before.

Weather conditions will also play a much bigger role. Races will now feature dynamic weather systems that can change mid-race, adding another strategic layer to how players approach each track.

Knockout Tour Mode Brings the Heat

A new Knockout Tour mode spices up the competition even further. This high-stakes mode has players racing through a series of courses and elimination checkpoints—fail to meet a placement requirement in time, and you're out. It’s a more intense, survival-style twist on classic racing that’s sure to fuel rivalries.

A Price Jump—and a Bundle Option

Mario Kart World will launch at $80, a step up from the usual $60 price tag on major titles. The game will be available both standalone and as part of a Switch 2 launch bundle.

Nintendo will reveal more details in a second Mario Kart World Direct, airing on April 17 at 2 PM UK time, so fans can expect even more surprises and features to be unveiled soon.

Big Shoes to Fill

Mario Kart World has a lot to live up to. Its predecessor, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, remains Nintendo’s best-selling game of all time with 67 million units sold as of December 2024. That puts it ahead of juggernauts like Animal Crossing: New Horizons (47.44M), Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (35.88M), and Breath of the Wild (32.62M).

With an open-world design, expanded player count, new vehicle types, and ambitious new modes, Mario Kart World looks like it’s not just evolving the series—it’s rewriting the rulebook entirely.