(Credit: Nintendo)
In January, Nintendo teased a new Mario Kart in its official Nintendo Switch 2 announcement trailer. However, the publisher went silent on it—until now.
Nintendo dropped a much more comprehensive look at the upcoming racing game's new features and modes via today's Nintendo Switch 2 Direct. The appropriately named Mario Kart World retains the familiar action that fans expect, but adds a new Forza Horizon-inspired free-roaming system that lets you drive off-road and explore the game world from your vehicle.
There are many reasons to be excited about this racer, but here are three of my favorites.
(Credit: Nintendo)1. The New Free-Roaming Adventures
Like in the beloved Forza Horizon games, Mario Kart World opens its game world so you can drive off-road. This lets you soak in the sights and drive at your own pace. This is a fantastic addition if you just want to cruise with a favorite character, and not participate in highly competitive (and controller-tossing) matches. The presentation revealed dynamic vistas and a cool photo mode that lets you and your friends snap pictures as you explore the world.
(Credit: Nintendo)2. Improved Grand Prix and Elimination Modes
Mario Kart World isn't neglecting its iconic racing. This new free-roam system comes with unique features that also improve how you compete. Races are held within the various regions, and you drive between courses to complete the classic Grand Prix cups. A new elimination mode, called Knockout Tour, tasks you with racing from one end of the map to the other, with the slowest drivers getting eliminated when they reach specific checkpoints on the map.
This sounds reminiscent of Forza Horizon's exciting Elmininator mode, a battle royale-style, 72-driver race to see who is the last driver standing. Although specific details about this race mode have not been revealed, Nintendo stated that Mario Kart World enables 24-player races, a first for the franchise. I'm looking forward to the new spins on classic kart racing.
(Credit: Nintendo)3. A Large Character Roster
What's a Mario Kart game without cool characters? The playable roster features series staples like Bowser, Mario, Princess Peach, and Toad. It also has new additions from the Super Mario universe, including the Biddybud beetle, Goombas, and Moo Moo Cow. Given the title's open-world nature, I wouldn’t be surprised if you must explore the map to find these curious drivers. Nintendo expanded the tracks' kart count to 24 to accommodate this larger roster. This sounds chaotic on paper, but Mario Kart 8 delivers expansive tracks that easily accommodate all racers without feeling overcrowded. Bring on the high-stakes action!
More Mario Kart World Details
Mario Kart World launches simultaneously with the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5, 2025, for a hefty $79.99. More details will be revealed during a dedicated Mario Kart World Direct on April 17, so keep your eyes peeled on PCMag for more information.