The wait for Mario Kart World has been long, but with the release of the Nintendo Switch 2, the Mushroom Kingdom crew is back on the track in an ambitious new title. Mario Kart World takes the beloved franchise in a bold new direction, introducing a fully open-world experience.
But does it live up to the legacy of its predecessor, Mario Kart 8? Let’s find out…
Unlike previous entries, Mario Kart World embraces the open-world concept, connecting all 30 of its courses into a sprawling sandbox. From cities to beaches, jungles to deserts, and even Bowser’s Castle, there’s plenty to explore. A Free Roam mode allows players to break free from the tracks and drive wherever they like, adding a sense of freedom. The vehicle handling is familiar to fans of Mario Kart 8, retaining essential techniques like drifting and turbo boosts. However, some features, like the iconic anti-gravity racing, are notably absent.
The addition of up to 24 players in each race adds an exciting new layer of competition. The Charge Jump mechanic allows racers to build speed and leap, helping them perform new stunts like rail grinds and wall rides. While these new techniques aren’t necessary for beating the AI, they add an extra challenge for those looking to master the game
. The introduction of rail grinding and wall riding is a welcome addition, offering a more skill-based element that many felt was missing in earlier titles.
The courses themselves are one of the standout features. Nintendo has crafted unique, varied tracks that are both visually stunning and a joy to race on. From an animal-filled safari to a haunted movie set, the variety of environments is impressive. Classic tracks such as Mario Circuit and Dino Dino Jungle make a return, with revamped layouts that feel fresh. Though the absence of anti-gravity racing is felt, many tracks offer their own memorable moments.
Graphically, Mario Kart World impresses, with gorgeous visuals and a stable 60fps. Playing on a 4K HDR screen highlights the game’s rich color palettes and detailed environments. While early trailers sparked concerns about its visuals, the full game proves that it’s a treat for the eyes, with tracks like Cheep Cheep Falls and Bowser’s Castle standing out.
However, the open-world structure does affect some classic modes, like Grand Prix. In Mario Kart World, each Grand Prix cup begins with a standard race, but subsequent races require players to drive to the next track.
These connecting routes can feel tedious at times, particularly if you’re at the front of the pack and can’t interact with other racers. While these transitions are necessary for the open-world experience, they detract from the fast-paced, skill-based racing fans love.
For those looking for a fresh challenge, Mario Kart World introduces the Knockout Tour mode, a battle royale-like competition that eliminates players after each checkpoint. While the mode ramps up the intensity, it suffers from the same issues as the connecting routes. Plus, the randomness of Mario Kart means that a red shell at the final moment can ruin an entire race. Still, it’s a promising concept worth refining.
Free Roam mode, despite its lack of structure, offers a relaxing break from traditional racing. Players can explore the world at their own pace, unlocking stickers and completing simple missions. While there’s no overarching story or NPC interaction, the open-world environment is rich with hidden secrets and fun stunts. It’s not a mode you’ll spend hours in, but it’s a nice diversion when you need a break from racing.
Classic modes like Battle Mode return, offering the fun, simple gameplay that made Mario Kart so popular. With up to 24 players, battles are more intense than ever. Time Trials also make a comeback, allowing players to challenge ghosts in their quest for the best times. Online play runs smoothly, though the increased player count means longer wait times between races.
Despite its impressive features, Mario Kart World’s $80 price tag might raise some eyebrows. The game offers 30 courses, fewer than the 48 found in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and the open-world mechanics might not appeal to everyone. However, the game is still a fun, full-featured experience that promises future updates. It’s not perfect, but it’s a solid start for the Switch 2.