Image/Video Credit: Insider Gaming, Nintendo

​Nintendo just dropped a 15-minute Mario Kart World Direct on April 17, 2025, and wow—it’s shaping up to be the most ambitious entry in the series yet. Set to launch alongside the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5, this game is packed with new features, modes, and a sprawling open world that has me counting down the days.

A Seamless, Interconnected World

For the first time, Mario Kart is going open-world. The courses are interspersed across a massive map, allowing players to drive between cities, deserts, oceans, and more without loading screens. This interconnected design means you can seamlessly transition from one race to another, explore hidden areas, and even take on side missions in Free Roam mode. The world features dynamic weather and a day/night cycle, adding depth and variety to every race.

New Mechanics and Features

The Direct introduced some exciting new gameplay mechanics:​

• Charge Jump: By holding and releasing the drift button on straightaways, you can perform a jump to leap over obstacles and dodge attacks, gaining a speed boost upon landing. ​
• Rewind: In solo and Free Roam modes, this feature lets you roll your kart back to earlier positions, giving you a chance to retry missed stunts or uncover secrets. ​
• New Items: The game introduces fresh items like the Feather, enabling players to jump over attacks, and the Rewind item, allowing for strategic repositioning during races. ​

These additions aim to make the gameplay more dynamic and strategic, whether you’re racing competitively or exploring at your own pace.

Expanded Multiplayer and Modes

Mario Kart World supports up to 24 players in online races, the largest multiplayer capacity in the series. Classic modes like Grand Prix, Time Trials, and Battle Mode return, alongside the new Knockout Tour, where players are eliminated over a series of races. Free Roam mode allows for exploration, photo ops, and discovering hidden collectibles.

Launch Details

Mario Kart World launches on June 5, 2025, exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2. The game is priced at $79.99, with a bundle including the Nintendo Switch 2 and a full game download available for $499.99. Pre-orders in the U.S. begin on April 24.

This Direct has me more excited than ever for Mario Kart World. The open-world design, new mechanics, and expanded multiplayer options promise a fresh and engaging experience for both longtime fans and newcomers. I can’t wait to hit the track and explore everything this game has to offer.​

That’s a wrap on the Mario Kart madness—for now. If you’re into gaming news, character guides, or just vibing with someone who’s way too excited about new releases, hit that subscribe button on The Gamers Cut. I’m just over here geeking out and grinding games, so come hang out!

If you missed the Direct, you can watch the full presentation here:​