Mario Kart World: Guide to the New Kart Revolution Unveiled
Get ready to rev your engines—Mario Kart World, the new Mario Kart title, is speeding onto the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5, 2025! Announced during the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct on April 2, 2025, this game promises to redefine the Mario Kart legacy with groundbreaking features, a massive character roster, and open-world racing. Whether you’re curious about Mario Kart World characters or eager to master its tracks, this guide dives into everything we know so far. Buckle up—it’s going to be a wild ride!
What Makes Mario Kart World the Ultimate New Mario Kart?
Since Super Mario Kart debuted in 1992, the Mario Kart series has sold over 189 million copies worldwide, with Mario Kart 8 Deluxe reining as a fan favorite. Now, Mario Kart World takes the wheel as the first mainline entry since 2014, launching alongside the Switch 2. Revealed in a jaw-dropping trailer, it boasts 24-player races—double the usual 12—and an open-world twist. From Mario Kart veterans to newcomers, this game’s innovations are set to thrill. Let’s break it down.
Mario Kart World Release Date and Platform
Mark your calendars: Mario Kart World drops on June 5, 2025, exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2. Teased in January’s Switch 2 first-look and fully unveiled in April’s Direct, it’s a day-one title designed to showcase the console’s power—think 4K docked output and a 7.9-inch 1080p screen. Unlike Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit, this isn’t a gimmick—it’s a full-fledged racer built for the next gen.
Mario Kart World Characters: Who’s Racing?
The Mario Kart World characters roster is the largest yet, with over 40 confirmed drivers blending classics and wild newcomers. Here’s a taste:
- Returning Stars: Mario, Luigi, Peach, Bowser, Toad, Yoshi, Daisy, Wario, Waluigi, Donkey Kong, Toadette, Rosalina, Pauline, Koopa Troopa, Lakitu, Birdo, King Boo, Hammer Bro, Chargin’ Chuck, Nabbit.
- Baby Brigade: Baby Mario, Baby Luigi, Baby Peach, Baby Daisy, Baby Rosalina.
- New Faces: Moo Moo Meadows Cow, Penguin, Sidestepper, Stingby, Para-Biddybud, Pokey, Fishbone, Pianta, Spike—deep-cut enemies now playable!
Costumes add flair—Peach rocks a sunhat, Luigi dons a farmer outfit—some triggered by in-race items like a burger. More reveals are expected at the Mario Kart World Direct on April 17, 2025. Who’s your pick?
Gameplay: Open-World Racing and New Modes
Mario Kart World ditches the linear tracks of past Mario Kart games for an open-world hub connecting all courses. Here’s what’s new:
- 24-Player Races: Chaos reigns with double the racers.
- Free Roam Mode: Explore tracks off-road with friends—snap pics in Photo Mode!
- Knockout Tour: A battle-royale twist—race across checkpoints, last place gets cut.
- Vehicle Variety: Karts transform into boats, planes, and snowmobiles—no more underwater racing, just surface-skimming action.
Dynamic weather and revamped classics (like a ski-themed DK Pass) keep it fresh. It’s Mario Kart meets adventure—pure genius!
Price and Pre-Order Details
Mario Kart World isn’t cheap:
- Digital: $66.99 USD / £66.99 UK.
- Physical: $74.99 USD / £74.99 UK—ouch, but it includes Mario Kart World glory.
Pre-orders start April 8, 2025, via the My Nintendo Store (priority for Switch Online vets) and retailers like Argos and Amazon UK. Stock’s tight—set alerts now!
How Does It Compare to Past Mario Kart Games?
- Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: 12 players, 48 characters, DLC tracks—still a king, but linear.
- Mario Kart Tour: It’s Mobile, gacha-heavy, and has a smaller scope.
- Mario Kart World: 24 players, open-world, deeper customization—next-level evolution.
The Switch 2’s NVIDIA chip powers smoother 120fps racing—sorry, Wii U fans, this is the future!
Tips to Prepare for Mario Kart World
- Brush Up Skills: Replay Mario Kart 8 Deluxe for drifting and item mastery.
- Pre-Order Early: April 8 is your shot—don’t miss out.
- Explore Characters: Test Mario Kart Tour for rare picks like Nabbit.
- Budget Up: £74.99 stings—save now!
Stay tuned for the April 17 Direct—more Mario Kart World characters and tracks await!
Final Lap: Why Mario Kart World Rules 2025
Mario Kart World isn’t just a new Mario Kart—it’s a revolution. With its open-world chaos, massive roster, and Switch 2 power, it’s poised to outshine Mario Kart 8. Pre-order April 8, race June 5—what’s your first track? Drop your thoughts below!
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