Rev your engines and get ready—Nintendo has officially lifted the curtain on Mario Kart World, the most ambitious installment in the legendary racing series. Announced during the April 2nd Nintendo Direct, this new entry promises to redefine Mario Kart as we know it, launching alongside the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5, 2025.

With massive, interconnected tracks, a jaw-dropping 24-player online mode, and an exciting Free Roam feature, Mario Kart World is shaping up to be the biggest and most chaotic Mario Kart game ever. Let’s dive into all the thrilling details.

A New Era for Mario Kart: Expansive Open-World Courses

Unlike previous Mario Kart titles that followed a traditional lap-based structure, Mario Kart World introduces vast, seamlessly connected environments. Picture this: you’re speeding through Toad Town, weaving between buildings, and suddenly the road splits—one path takes you into an underground sewer shortcut, while another leads to a countryside highway stretching for miles.

Each race isn’t just a closed circuit—instead, tracks now flow naturally into one another, forming a vast world where different locations link together. Nintendo is calling this feature “World Tour Mode,” where players can race across multiple biomes in a single event, seamlessly transitioning between lush jungles, scorching deserts, snowy mountains, and neon-lit cities.

Free Roam Mode: Drive, Explore, and Discover Secrets

One of the biggest surprises? Mario Kart World introduces a Free Roam Mode, allowing players to explore environments at their own pace. No timers, no finish lines—just you, your kart, and a fully explorable world filled with hidden shortcuts, interactive elements, and secrets.

Think Skate 3 meets Mario Kart—you can cruise around, drift through alleyways, or find secret warp pipes that lead to unexpected locations. The world is designed for both solo exploration and multiplayer chaos, making it a perfect mode for those who love discovering Easter eggs and unique challenges.

Massive 24-Player Online Races & GameChat Integration

For the first time ever, Mario Kart World will support up to 24 players in a single online race—making for the most chaotic, thrilling, and intense matches the series has ever seen. Expect total mayhem as shells, bananas, and Bob-ombs fly across the track at breakneck speed.

To make races even more interactive, Nintendo is introducing a brand-new feature called GameChat, which will allow real-time voice chat during online matches. Need to warn your teammate about an incoming Blue Shell? Or maybe you just want to laugh at your friend’s disastrous crash into a Thwomp? GameChat makes it all possible.

Classic Items, New Power-Ups, and Vehicle Customization

Of course, no Mario Kart game would be complete without its iconic arsenal of wacky power-ups, and Mario Kart World is bringing back fan-favorite items while introducing a few brand-new tricks:

• Time Warp Shell – A glowing, golden shell that reverses time for 3 seconds, causing racers to temporarily relive their last few moments.
• Thunderstorm Cloud – Creates an expanding storm cloud that strikes random racers with lightning every few seconds.
• Magnet Mushroom – Attracts all nearby coins and item boxes, pulling them toward you as you speed past.

On top of this, the Kart Customization system has been massively expanded, allowing players to fine-tune their vehicle’s speed, weight, handling, and acceleration in ways never before possible. Expect more cosmetic skins, wheels, and gliders than ever before, letting you create a truly one-of-a-kind kart.

Graphics, Performance, and Enhanced Features on Switch 2

With the power of the Nintendo Switch 2, Mario Kart World features stunning visuals, running at a silky-smooth 60 FPS in handheld mode and up to 120 FPS when docked. Courses are now richer, more dynamic, and feature fully destructible environments, allowing players to crash through fences, break signs, and send barrels flying.

Additionally, Nintendo has confirmed that the game will take advantage of the Switch 2’s upgraded haptic feedback, meaning every drift, boost, and collision will feel more immersive than ever.

Pricing, Pre-Orders, and Special Editions

Nintendo has announced multiple purchase options for Mario Kart World:

• Standard Edition – $79.99
• Deluxe Edition – $99.99 (Includes an exclusive Gold Kart Skin and early access to the first DLC track pack.)
• Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle – $499.99 (Includes a digital copy of the game and a custom Mario-themed console dock.)

Pre-orders open on April 8, with bonus content for early buyers, including a special “Rainbow Road” kart decal and a golden Waluigi emblem.

Mark Your Calendars: Mario Kart Direct Coming April 17

For those eager for more details, Nintendo has announced a special Mario Kart World Direct on April 17 at 6 a.m. PT. This event will feature deep dives into gameplay mechanics, new characters, and a sneak peek at the first DLC pack.

Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Mario Kart Experience?

With open-world exploration, massive 24-player races, and a fresh spin on classic Mario Kart action, Mario Kart World is shaping up to be the most ambitious and feature-packed entry in the series.

From chaotic online battles to laid-back free-roam sessions, there’s something for everyone in this massive new world of racing fun. So mark your calendars, gear up, and get ready to race into the future of Mario Kart on June 5, 2025!