New Tracks, Online Features, Switch 2 Hints, and What Nintendo’s Racing Team Is Building Next

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New Tracks, Online Features, Switch 2 Hints, and What Nintendo’s Racing Team Is Building Next

From the first rev of an engine to the last drifting turn, Mario Kart has always been the ultimate playground for racers of all ages. Over the decades, the franchise grew into a cultural phenomenon, but the call for a bold new chapter has never been louder.

Finally, Nintendo is answering that call. With the reveal of Mario Kart World and the launch of the next-gen Switch 2, the series is shifting gears into uncharted territory. This isn’t just a new entry; it’s an evolution of the entire series.

The game promises expansive open-world tracks, an expanded roster, and fresh gameplay mechanics designed to redefine what it means to race with friends and rivals alike. It is set to deliver the perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation for longtime fans and newcomers alike.

When will Mario Kart World be released?

Mario Kart World is set to hit the tracks on June 5, 2025, launching day one alongside the highly anticipated Switch 2 console. This positions the game as one of the flagship titles for Nintendo’s next-generation console, promising to showcase the hardware’s capabilities right from day one.

This release date was officially confirmed during the Nintendo Direct, ending months of speculation. The company is aiming for a smooth launch window to capitalize on the excitement surrounding both the new console and the return of the beloved series with fresh innovations.

What kind of game is Mario Kart World?

Mario Kart World is shaping up to be a groundbreaking entry. It will take the franchise’s beloved kart-racing formula and push it into new, uncharted territory. Unlike previous entries, it embraces a semi-open-world design.

Players will race across vast regions that span a variety of environments, from urban cityscapes to desert highways. Each environment has dynamic weather and time-of-day changes that add fresh challenges and visual flair to every race.

Beyond the standard competitive modes, players can freely roam tracks in a new Free Roam mode, allowing casual cruising with friends or solo exploration to discover hidden shortcuts, secrets, and collectibles.

Despite the various innovations, item usage and combat remain a key part of the experience, preserving the chaotic fun that fans expect.

Who’s developing the game?

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As usual, Nintendo Entertainment Planning & Development Division (Nintendo EPD) is behind Mario Kart World, specifically its Production Group No. 9, the team responsible for the entire series. This group has honed the formula over decades, combining fun, accessibility, and competitive depth into every installment.

Looking ahead, Nintendo’s Racing Team is expected to focus on post-launch content, likely developing various DLC packs. These expansions will probably introduce new tracks, maps, areas, and even additional characters, continuing the tradition set by Mario Kart 8.

This approach has helped keep the community engaged long after launch and is almost certainly part of Nintendo’s plan to support the game with fresh content over time.

Pre-order information: How much does the game cost?

Mario Kart World will launch at $79.99, making it the most expensive mainline entry in the series so far. The price hike most likely reflects its scale, next-gen features, and being one of the poster titles for Switch 2.

Pre-orders are live now through Nintendo and major retailers. A Switch 2 + Mario Kart World bundle is also available for $499.99. No special editions or bonus content have been announced yet, but more details are expected as the June 5 release approaches.

Available platforms

Unlike previous entries in the series that spanned multiple Nintendo consoles, Mario Kart World is exclusively available on the Nintendo Switch 2. This means fans will need to upgrade to the new system to experience the full open-world gameplay, improved visuals, and new features.

Additionally, it is confirmed that the game will not run on the original Switch or be available on other platforms like Steam Deck or PlayStation. As with all Mario games, expect the franchise to remain a Nintendo staple for years to come.

What Tracks and Modes can we expect?

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Mario Kart World is taking a bold leap by introducing open-world racing, in which players can drive freely across expansive, interconnected courses rather than traditional closed loops.

The game features diverse tracks ranging from desert highways and urban metropolises to spooky cinemas and classic retro tracks from past Mario Kart titles. Some new courses include (shown during Direct):

1. Mario Bros Circuit (desert highway)
2. Crown City (urban metropolis)
3. Salty Salty Speedway (city)
4. Starview Peak (snow-themed)
5. Boo Cinema (spooky-themed)

Retro fan favorites like Toad’s Factory, Peach Beach, and Wario’s Galleon are also making a comeback, beautifully remastered for the Switch 2. As for the modes:

1. Grand Prix with 24 racers per race
2. Free Roam mode allows casual exploration off the beaten path with friends
3. Knockout Tour, a thrilling transcontinental rally-style competition
4. Classic Battle Mode, Time Trials, and VS Races supporting up to four teams.

Players can also expect new gameplay mechanics, plus outfit unlocks tied to in-game exploration.

Who are the racers?

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The roster expands to 24 characters, doubling the usual lineup and including fan favorites as well as some surprising new additions. You can race as:

1. Mario, Luigi, Peach, Daisy, Yoshi, Bowser, Donkey Kong, and more
2. Baby versions of classic characters like Baby Mario and Baby Peach
3. Unique racers like Piranha Plant, Pauline, Boo, and even a Moo Moo Meadows cow

Each character can be customized with different outfits, allowing players to race in style.

What about Online and additional features?

Mario Kart World is built with online play in mind. You can race in ranked modes, team up in dynamic cross-map challenges, or hop into casual sessions with friends. One standout addition is GameChat, the new voice chat tool that lets you talk with others, whether they’re across the room or across the globe.

Additionally, new vehicle mechanics expand how you race: players can use gliders and drive on water by transforming into ski-like wheelsets. You’ll also be able to ride along walls, balance on rails for extra boosts, and charge up powerful jumps that reward timing and precision.

Solo players can take advantage of a rewind option, letting them undo mistakes without altering the race for others. And instead of isolated tracks, courses are now part of a larger, interconnected world.

In the end, Mario Kart World isn’t just the next entry; it’s a bold reinvention, aiming to redefine what the series can be. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, this is the ride Nintendo wants you to buckle in for. And from the looks of it, it’s going to be one unforgettable race.

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#Tracks #Online #Features #Switch #Hints #Nintendos #Racing #Team #Building

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