Nintendo Reveals Mario Kart World as Flagship Game for Switch 2 Launch, Featuring 24-Player Races, Innovative Modes, and Exciting New Features

Nintendo has shared fresh details on its next entry in the Mario Kart series.

A new Mario Kart game was first teased back in January, during the Switch 2 console announcement. At this time, though, Nintendo kept details pretty slim. Sure, we had some fun speculating about what was shown in that very brief clip, with fans pointing out Donkey Kong had a new look, there were 24 places on the starting line and what also appeared to be the suggestion players will need to conserve fuel while navigating the chaos that is Mario Kart racing. But, actual concrete details from Nintendo itself, well, there really wasn’t much.

That has all changed today, though, thanks to Nintendo’s dedicated Switch 2 Direct. Rather than just being a little teaser to round out a different teaser, today’s presentation gave us a full-fat look at what is now officially called Mario Kart World.

Along with returning faces such as Mario, Luigi, Toad and Peach, this upcoming game will also include chaning weather, and – rather excitingly – the ability to drive basically anywhere. There will also be grinding, and wall running (of sorts, you are still in a vehicle).

As for the courses, there is a healthy dose of all new raceways, and the abilty to just roam about. As for that roaming, the trailer showed jet skis and snowmobiles for getting around on. Also, mistake me if I am wrong, but was Peach on a bike in a dress? Also, a cow racer?

Here’s the official blurb from Nintendo:

“Put the pedal to the metal in Mario Kart World, a brand-new experience set in a vast interconnected environment. Race seamlessly across connected courses that deliver Mario Kart racing like never before. 24 drivers can compete in a race. Participate in the new Knockout Tour mode, where you’ll barrel through back-to-back courses and checkpoints, with no pit stops along the way.

“If a player doesn’t make it to each checkpoint at a high-enough placement, they will be eliminated. And in Free Roam, it’s possible to go off the racetrack and drive in any direction you wish, explore areas that pique your interest and take some photos at scenic spots with a group of friends.”

Mario Kart World will release on 5th June. A dedicated Mario Kart World Direct is also coming on 17th April, at 2pm UK.

For more, you can check out our Everything Announced Switch 2 roundup here.