Mario Kart World Skipping 200cc; Nintendo Plans Update

Mario Kart 8's enhanced 200cc difficulty is not available at launch for Switch 2 title Mario Kart World, though Nintendo has teased its potential return through a future update.

200cc mode first appeared in the Mario Kart series via Mario Kart 8, though it was only added post-launch via a patch. Could Nintendo be planning a similar rollout for the next installment? It seems highly likely.

In an interview with Rolling Stone, Mario Kart World producer Kosuke Yabuki acknowledged 200cc's popularity among players but stopped short of confirming its return—for now.

"Many players really enjoy the inclusion of high-difficulty modes like this," Yabuki hinted. "But does that mean we’re considering engine classes beyond 150cc in Mario Kart World? I'm afraid I can't confirm anything at this stage."

It’s no surprise Nintendo didn’t include 200cc in Mario Kart World at launch. Releasing the mode later lets players learn the courses and get comfortable with 150cc—or lower speeds if needed—before facing 200cc’s greater challenge.

This approach makes even more sense given Mario Kart World’s multiplayer focus, where players team up, explore together, use GameChat, and keep cameras enabled.

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When Mario Kart World eventually receives its 200cc update, all players will likely need to race at the same speed to explore the game’s shared map. Once again, it’s better to let everyone master 150cc before shifting into a higher gear—or engine class.

Mario Kart World launches this week alongside the Nintendo Switch 2, featuring a seamless open map for free exploration. But as IGN noted, don’t expect it to play like Forza Horizon. In other notable Mario Kart news, IGN asked Nintendo whether the beloved Cow character actually eats beef.