Nintendo’s next Mario Kart installment, Mario Kart World, is slated to launch as a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive on June 5th. The announcement came during Nintendo’s recent Nintendo Direct, revealing details about the game’s open-world mode, dynamic environmental effects, and support for up to 24 racers.
Accompanying the game’s launch, Nintendo will offer a Switch 2 bundle, priced at $499.99, which includes a digital download code for Mario Kart World. Further details are scheduled to be revealed during another Nintendo Direct on April 17th at 6AM PT / 9AM ET.
Mario Kart World introduces “Free Roam,” an open-world mode that draws parallels to Forza Horizon 5, enabling players to explore both on and off-road environments, embark on group drives, and capture in-game photos. The game also includes a “Knock-out Tour” mode, which features a checkpoint-based race reminiscent of Cannonball Run.
Gameplay enhancements include rail grinding, wall jumping, and new vehicle types such as boats and snowmobiles. The game also appears to feature on-the-fly character customization. The character roster includes Mario, Wario, and characters new to the mainline series, such as the cow from Moo Moo Meadows in Mario Kart 64.
Mario Kart World was initially teased during the Switch 2 reveal event in January. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe currently holds the title of best-selling Switch game, and its predecessor was the best-selling game on the Wii U. Mario Kart 7 was the top-selling 3DS game, Mario Kart Wii was second only to Wii Sports on the Wii, and Mario Kart DS was third on the DS, behind Nintendogs.
