Mario Kart World Previews Highlight Bold Innovations Ahead of June Launch

The upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 flagship title introduces free-roam exploration, a 24-player race mode, and dynamic new mechanics.

Mario Kart World, launching June 5, 2025, alongside the Nintendo Switch 2, introduces the series' first free-roam exploration mode within an interconnected world of tracks.
The new 'Knockout Tour' mode brings a battle royale-style format, eliminating racers as they fail to meet placement thresholds during races.
Enhanced gameplay includes larger tracks with alternate paths, destructible elements, and new mechanics like water traversal and rail grinding.
The game supports up to 24 racers per race, nearly doubling the number from previous entries, creating a more chaotic and competitive experience.
While introducing new characters and alternate costumes, Mario Kart World notably omits some iconic characters from Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, with their absence yet to be explained.