Mario Kart Direct Reveals Major Updates

The latest Mario Kart World Direct unveiled exciting details about the upcoming installment in the beloved racing series. Discover the game's expansive open world and its standout features below.

Key Highlights from Mario Kart World Direct

Seamless Open-World Exploration

During the April 17th presentation, Nintendo showcased Mario Kart World's interconnected environment. Racers can traverse both nostalgic locales and brand-new territories across this vibrant landscape.

As Nintendo explained: "Mario Kart World seamlessly connects its courses through navigable roads, creating an immersive journey between race tracks."

Experience Mario's universe like never before, with breathtaking scenery and iconic landmarks dotting the landscape. Hidden collectibles and skill-building challenges await those who venture off the beaten path.

The game will feature reimagined classics alongside new circuits, including Mario Bros. Circuit, Crown City, Salty Salty Speedway, Starview Peak, Boo Cinema, Toad's Factory, Peach Beach, and Wario Shipyard.

Revamped Racing Modes

Two primary competition types headline the experience: the traditional Grand Prix and the new Knockout Tour, both supporting up to 24 racers - a series first. Competitors must dodge dynamic hazards like Bullet Bill-shooting cars and Hammer Bros. attacks.

The Grand Prix challenges players to conquer four consecutive races to claim various cups. Unlike previous entries, racers must physically travel between events. Completing all cups unlocks a mysterious "colorful course," likely the fan-favorite Rainbow Road.

Knockout Tour introduces endurance racing across the entire map, eliminating participants who fail to reach checkpoints - creating an intense survival-style competition.

Enhanced Gameplay Elements

Fresh power-ups join returning favorites, including: the Coin Shell (knocks out rivals while leaving coin trails), the Ice Flower (freezes opponents), and the Big Mushroom (transforms players into giant wrecking balls).

The roster blends series staples like Mario, Luigi, and Bowser with newcomers Goomba, Spike, and even Cow. Each character features unlockable alternate costumes hidden throughout the world.

Multiplayer Mayhem

Various multiplayer options cater to different playstyles. Time Trials pit racers against global ghost data, while VS Mode enables customized team competitions. Battle Mode returns with Coin Runners and Balloon Battle variants.

The game supports four-player split-screen, eight-player local wireless (two per Switch 2), and online play. The Switch 2's GameChat enhances communication with voice chat and screen-viewing capabilities.

Accessibility features include Smart Steering (prevents track departures), Auto-accelerate, motion-controlled Tilt Steering, and compatibility with the new Joy-Con 2 Wheel.

Mario Kart World promises to revolutionize the genre with its expansive open-world design. Launching exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5, 2025. Stay tuned for more updates!