In today’s Nintendo Direct event centered around the Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo thrilled fans with the announcement of its latest Mario Kart installment, dubbed Mario Kart World. This game will be available exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2 right from its launch day.
The trailer packed a punch with its flurry of exciting new features. Viewers got a sneak peek at some familiar faces returning to the fray, along with fresh tracks that promise to challenge players in new ways. Among the novel features are jet ski racing on water, grinding along course edges, and the ability to bounce off walls. Players can also personalize their racers with snazzy hats and outfits. Weather conditions and the time of day will dynamically change during races, adding another layer of strategy. Oh, and you can even take control of the cow from Moo Moo Meadows—yes, you read that correctly!
Perhaps the most intriguing addition is the ability to roam off-road across sprawling open worlds, transforming how players navigate between courses during the Grand Prix events. This offers a refreshing twist to the series, inviting exploration and a sense of freedom previously unseen in Mario Kart titles.
Mario Kart 8 had been the reigning king of the series since its original debut for the Wii U in 2014, followed by the updated Mario Kart 8 Deluxe for the Nintendo Switch. With nearly 65 million copies sold, it set a high bar as the definitive Mario Kart experience, continually expanded with new content. While spin-offs like Mario Kart Tour for mobile and Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit have entertained fans, Mario Kart World represents a significant leap forward. Will it manage to surpass its illustrious predecessor? Only time will tell.
For those eager for more details, stay tuned for additional updates in future Nintendo Direct presentations focused exclusively on Mario Kart World. There’s plenty more to uncover, so keep your engines revving!
