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Mario Kart World Direct Highlights Revealed

By AudreyMay 29,2025

If you missed the recent Mario Kart World Direct, here’s everything you need to know about the highly anticipated kart-racing title in the Mario Kart series. Set to launch on June 5, 2025, exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2, this game is promising to bring a fresh twist to the franchise.

An Open-World Experience

What You Missed: Mario Kart World Direct

At the heart of Mario Kart World lies its interconnected open world, where players can explore regions both familiar and new. Roads seamlessly connect courses, allowing for a seamless journey across the vibrant landscape. Discover iconic landmarks, scenic routes, and hidden treasures scattered throughout the world while honing your driving skills in non-race segments.

This expansive environment introduces a new layer of exploration, with challenges and secrets waiting to be uncovered. From picturesque beaches to towering peaks, every corner of the map has something special to offer.

Racing Modes

Grand Prix and Knockout Tour

What You Missed: Mario Kart World Direct

The game features two main racing modes: Grand Prix and Knockout Tour. In Grand Prix, players must complete four consecutive races to earn cups like the Mushroom Cup, Flower Cup, and Star Cup. Unlike previous entries, players must actively navigate to the next race location, adding a layer of strategy to progression. Upon finishing all Grand Prix Cups, a rumored "colorful course"—possibly Rainbow Road—will unlock.

Knockout Tour offers an extended survival-style mode where players race from one end of the world to another. Success depends on maintaining a position in the pack, as falling behind means elimination.

New Items and Returning Favorites

What You Missed: Mario Kart World Direct

Mario Kart World introduces innovative items alongside beloved classics. The Coin Shell leaves a trail of coins behind, while the Ice Flower freezes competitors. The Big Mushroom grants temporary invincibility and size boosts, making it perfect for taking down rivals. Other items include the Bob-omb, Banana Peel, and Feather.

Classic characters such as Mario, Luigi, Peach, and Bowser return, joined by newcomers like Goomba, Spike, and even a Cow. Each racer comes with hidden alternate costumes, offering players additional customization options.

Multiplayer Fun

What You Missed: Mario Kart World Direct

Mario Kart World supports both local and online multiplayer, accommodating up to 24 racers in a single race—the highest number yet in the series. Local players can compete on one system with up to four players in split-screen mode, while up to eight players (two per Switch 2 device) can join via local wireless play.

Customization options abound in VS mode, letting players form teams and customize their race settings. Battle mode makes a comeback with fan-favorite modes like Coin Runners and Balloon Battle, adding competitive depth.

Switch 2’s GameChat feature enables real-time communication and screen sharing among players, enhancing social interaction. Additional aids like Smart Steering, Auto-accelerate, and Tilt controls ensure accessibility for all skill levels.

A Fresh Take on Kart Racing

With its open-world design, diverse racing modes, and innovative item system, Mario Kart World aims to push boundaries within the genre. Fans eagerly await its release, hoping it delivers the charm and excitement they've come to love from the Mario Kart series.

Stay tuned for more updates by checking out our dedicated article below!

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