Nintendo is gearing up to redefine the racing experience with Mario Kart World, the first entry in the beloved series to feature a full open-world format. Announced as a flagship title for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, this ambitious project is already making waves for its evolution of the classic kart racing formula.
An Open World for the First Time
Set across a sprawling, interconnected landscape, Mario Kart World trades in the traditional track-based system for a seamless overworld filled with biomes, challenges, and dynamic weather systems. From icy mountain passes to bustling cityscapes and lush jungles, each area flows naturally into the next, creating a cohesive world that’s both explorable and competitive.
Players can now freely drive between regions, uncovering shortcuts, hidden races, and vehicle upgrades along the way. The game also introduces a day-night cycle, seasonal events, and roaming rival drivers that challenge players to spontaneous street races.
Multiplayer Overhaul
Online multiplayer sees a major upgrade with support for up to 24 racers simultaneously. Players can form racing crews, claim territories, and even participate in weekly open-world tournaments. Local wireless play is also enhanced thanks to the Switch 2’s updated hardware, providing smoother connections and a larger draw distance even during chaotic races.
Cross-region matchmaking and global leaderboards will give competitive players a chance to climb the ranks, while casual racers can enjoy mini-games, kart customization, and photo mode.
A Focus on Customization and Progression
Kart customization is deeper than ever. From tire compounds that affect grip on different terrain to wings and boosters that determine aerial control, Mario Kart World leans heavily into a modular vehicle system. Characters can now earn experience, unlocking cosmetics, emotes, and rare components through exploration or race victories.
The introduction of a garage system lets players store, display, and tune multiple kart builds suited to different playstyles—drift-heavy, off-road, high-speed, or defensive.
A True System Seller
Mario Kart World is being positioned as one of the key launch titles for the Nintendo Switch 2, with visuals showcasing the system’s enhanced graphical fidelity, smoother framerates, and lightning-fast load times. Fans of the franchise—and newcomers alike—have plenty of reasons to keep an eye on this one.
The game is currently slated for release in Q3 2025, shortly after the Switch 2 launches in June.
