Mario Kart World: All the Hyped Details You Need to Know!

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Summary

  • Mario Kart World for Switch 2 will be $80; a bundle with console may cost $500 including the game.
  • Mario Kart World offers open-world gameplay; players can explore between races but can’t exit vehicles.
  • Multifunctional vehicles with various power-ups, multiplayer options include a globe-trotting multiplayer mode.

Back in 1992, I was utterly captivated by the debut of Super Mario Kart on the SNES. Its success was monumental, sparking a wave of inspiration among developers to venture into the realm of kart racing. For those like me who prefer a more laid-back racing experience compared to simulation-level tracks, it paved the way for an adored genre that continues to delight us even today.

As a dedicated gamer, I’ve been eagerly waiting for a new installment in my favorite racing series. The last time we saw it was back on the Wii U with “Mario Kart 8” way back in 2014. However, Nintendo kept the ball rolling by expanding it through numerous updates on the Switch starting from 2017. Now, more than a decade has passed, and we’re finally getting a fresh dose of excitement with “Mario Kart World”. With the recent Switch 2 event, what juicy details did Nintendo unveil about this new game? Let’s dive right in and explore the latest scoop on Mario Kart World.

6. Price And Release Date

Yikes, Nintendo

Upon the release of both Xbox Series X/S and PlayStation 5, gamers were taken aback to discover that many games had increased in price from $60 to $70 in North America. However, unlike the previous Nintendo Switch games which generally stayed at the $60 mark, it appears that prices for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 may vary. For instance, the game Mario Kart World will be priced at a staggering $80, an amount that surpasses the current cost of games for both PS5 and Xbox Series X.

The Switch 2 is scheduled for release on June 5th at a retail price of $450. At launch, Mario Kart World will be available. There’s also a version that comes with Mario Kart World pre-installed for an additional $100, making the game just $50 – quite a bargain. Meanwhile, Donkey Kong Bananza, due out a month later, is set to cost $70. It appears that the pricing for digital and physical games on Switch 2 may vary, similar to the cartridge prices during the N64 era.

5. You Can Drive In An Open-World

But Can’t You Get Out Of The Car

In contrast to past Mario Kart games, the open-ended structure of Mario Kart World stands out as a significant change. Players can engage in matches as usual, competing on four tracks and ultimately deciding a winner. However, this game offers a broader exploration experience due to its world tour concept, allowing players to race across various countries and potentially be eliminated during their journey.

During racing breaks, regardless of the type, participants are free to traverse the expansive countryside. Unfortunately, it appears there’s no option to leave the vehicle, which is a bit disappointing. However, this isn’t unprecedented in open-world racing games; Ubisoft emphasized this with their game The Crew and its sequel, and Forza Horizon is also known for this feature. Still, Mario Kart World stands out with its more upbeat atmosphere as it puts the beloved Mario characters center stage.

4. Confirmed Characters

Who Is Missing?

From the information available on the game, there are currently twenty-four known characters for Mario Kart World, which include characters such as Mario, Baby Mario, Luigi, Baby Luigi, Peach, Baby Peach, Rosalina, Baby Rosalina, Daisy, Baby Daisy, Paulina, Toadette, Toad, Koopa Troopa, King Boo, Yoshi, Shy Guy, Lakitu, Donkey Kong, Wario, Waluigi, Bowser, Bowser Jr., and Birdo. However, there are additional characters in the Mario Kart series that have not yet been included, such as Metal Mario from Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

As a dedicated gamer, I’ve noticed something peculiar about the upcoming games from Nintendo. Noticeably absent are some familiar faces – the Koopalings and guest characters like Link from The Legend of Zelda series, as well as beloved characters from Animal Crossing and Splatoon. Strangely, no Miis were seen in the trailers either, a noticeable omission during the Switch 2 presentation. This might suggest that Nintendo could be moving away from these characters.

However, it’s intriguing to see other characters featured in art and trailers, such as Goombas and other common enemies. It’s possible that instead of playable characters, they could just be opponents to race against or temporary costumes. But again, this is all speculation at the moment.

3. Vehicle Types And Power-Ups

Hijacking A Semi

In Mario Kart 7 for the 3DS, gliders attached to karts were introduced for the first time. This feature was then expanded in Mario Kart 8, allowing vehicles to transform according to their racing environment. Small jet propellers would emerge underwater, and anti-gravity wheels activated when players raced upside down.

In this upcoming iteration, players are expected to experience vehicle evolution similar to Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed, transitioning swiftly from karts to boats. Vehicles will exhibit extraordinary abilities, such as growing wings for flight, skimming along rails like a skateboard game featuring Tony Hawk, and bouncing off enclosures, among other things.

As for power-ups, you’ll find familiar items like bananas and shells, and an exciting moment where a kart commandeered a semi-truck and proceeded to drive it. The world of Mario Kart seems to have gone off the rails in the most exhilarating way.

2. Multiplayer Options

Take It On Tour

In Mario Kart World, the multiplayer aspect is unique. Instead of a traditional race, there’s a global tournament called Knockout Tour. In this event, up to 24 players can compete online. If competitors fail to reach the finish line on time, they are removed from the game in a manner similar to Battle Royale. It’s worth noting that you don’t need 24 friends to take advantage of this online feature.

In the presentation of the GameChat feature on the Switch 2, it was shown that four players were adventuring together in the game’s world. They also had the ability to capture special moments by taking photos, which isn’t groundbreaking for video games, but it’s still reassuring to learn that a Photo Mode will be included in the game. Interestingly, up to four players can link their Switch 2 devices using various control options, including the classic Joy-Con controllers originally designed for the Switch.

1. Different Control Styles

Grab The Wheel Bundle

It might come as a surprise how expensive everything will be when the Switch 2 is launched, but this is common practice for console launches these days. However, there are some items that won’t drain your wallet, offering good deals to consider. As was previously stated, you can utilize original Joy-Cons to engage in multiplayer mode while playing Mario Kart World.

In the new version:

The cost of everything at the Switch 2 launch may seem a bit high, but it’s standard procedure for console launches these days. Some products, though, won’t strain your budget and could prove to be worthwhile investments. As previously explained, you can use original Joy-Cons to play Mario Kart World in multiplayer mode.

When it comes to Joy-Con controllers, users have three options: they can use them as a single controller combined, split them for side-view play, or take advantage of motion controls. If you’re a fan of games that utilize motion control, you might want to check out the special offer for the Switch 2’s racing wheel. At just $20, you’ll receive two wheels in the package, which isn’t a bad price considering the overall value.

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2025-04-03 04:44