Mario Kart World Direct Unveiled for Switch 2 Launch

Nintendo's recent Mario Kart World Direct has provided fans with a wealth of new information about the eagerly awaited launch title for the Nintendo Switch 2, set to release on June 5, 2025. From detailed insights on characters and courses to innovative race modes and hidden secrets, this Direct has left no stone unturned, making the wait for the game even more exciting.

This comprehensive roundup is designed to keep you in the loop with everything revealed in the Mario Kart World Direct. We hope it eases the anticipation as we count down to the launch of this highly anticipated game alongside the Nintendo Switch 2.

Mario Kart World is set to thrill with an expansive, interconnected map featuring a mix of new and classic courses. Highlights from the Direct include Mario Bros. Circuit, Crown City, Salty Salty Speedway, Starview Peak, Boo Cinema, Toad's Factory, Peach Beach, and Wario Shipyard. What's particularly exciting for long-time fans is how these older courses have been reimagined to seamlessly blend into this expansive new world, providing fresh and thrilling experiences on beloved classics.

Characters and New Techniques

With the capacity for up to 24 racers per race, Mario Kart World boasts a diverse roster of characters to ensure variety in every race. The Direct showcased characters including Mario, Luigi, Peach, Daisy, Yoshi, and many more, including unique additions like Rocky Wrench, Conkdor, and Cow. New driving techniques such as Charge Jump and Rewind promise to add depth to the gameplay. Charge Jump allows racers to dodge attacks, reach new heights, and even ride on walls, while Rewind lets players retry a section of the race, though caution is advised as other racers continue moving forward.

Mario Kart World Screenshots

View 120 ImagesRaces - Grand Prix and Knockout Tour

Mario Kart World introduces two main racing modes: Grand Prix and Knockout Tour. Grand Prix retains the classic format where players compete in multiple races to win cups like the Mushroom Cup and Flower Cup, but with a seamless transition between courses, enhancing the open-world feel. Conquering all cups could unlock a special "colorful course," hinting at the iconic Rainbow Road, complete with new challenges like cars shooting Bullet Bills and Hammer Bros. throwing hammers.

Knockout Tour brings a battle-royale style race where players must reach checkpoints within a set time or face elimination. The last racer standing wins in events like the Golden Rally and Ice Rally, adding a thrilling twist to the racing experience.

Mario Kart World Free Roam

The Free Roam mode in Mario Kart World allows players to explore the game's world at their leisure, free from the pressure of racing. Discover hidden secrets like P Switches, which activate blue coins and initiate skill-enhancing missions. Hidden treasures such as Peach Medallions and secret panels await those who venture off the beaten path. A photo mode is also available to capture memorable moments. Visiting Yoshi's restaurant offers "Dash Food" for a speed boost and themed outfits, adding a fun and unique twist to the exploration experience.

Playing Mario Kart World with Friends

Playing with friends in Mario Kart World is set to be a highlight, with numerous multiplayer options available. From four players on a single system to local wireless play for up to eight players and online play for up to 24, there's a way for everyone to join in the fun. Friends can also free roam together, see each other's locations on the map, fast travel, and engage in custom races or battles. The Photo Mode and GameChat feature, complete with live video reactions, further enhance the social aspect of the game.

In addition to the main racing modes, Mario Kart World includes Time Trials, where players can race against global ghost data, and VS Mode, which offers extensive customization with up to four teams competing. Battle Mode returns with familiar favorites like Coin Runners and Balloon Battle, ensuring there's something for every type of player.

Items

Mario Kart World brings back beloved items like Bullet Bill and Lightning, alongside new additions such as the Coin Shell, which knocks rivals off course and leaves a trail of coins, and the Ice Flower, which freezes opponents. Other new items include Hammers, the Mega Mushroom, the Feather for jumping, and the Kamek item, which transforms players into something mysterious, adding strategic depth to races.

Support Features

To cater to players of all skill levels, Mario Kart World includes support features like Smart Steering, Tilt Controls (compatible with Joy-Con 2 wheel), Auto-Use Item, Auto-Accelerate, and adjustable camera settings, ensuring everyone can enjoy the game to its fullest.

For more in-depth insights, check out our hands-on preview of Mario Kart World, how Nintendo justifies its $80 price tag, and our exclusive interview with Nintendo's Bill Trinen about the Nintendo Switch 2. These resources will give you a comprehensive understanding of what to expect from this exciting new title.