Mario Kart World Is An Open-World Switch 2 Launch Game

Nintendo Unveils Mario Kart World: A Global Racing Experience on Switch 2

Gaming giant Nintendo has officially announced the next iteration in its flagship racing franchise, revealing Mario Kart World, previously speculated as Mario Kart 9. This new title promises players an expansive and innovative experience, featuring races set across diverse global locales and a series first: the ability to explore a connected world map between competitions. Up to 24 racers can participate in each match, with new characters like Paulina joining the roster, and novel gameplay mechanics such as food-based mid-race power-ups enhancing the action. The game is poised to be a key title for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 console.

Innovative Game Modes and Features

Mario Kart World introduces exciting new modes, including “Knockout Tour,” a thrilling race against elimination where drivers must reach checkpoints and maintain a high ranking to avoid being knocked out – a concept reminiscent of Fall Guys. Another novel mode, “Free Roam,” allows players to venture off-track and capture scenic photos with friends in picturesque environments.

Explore a Dynamic Overworld

Building upon the adventurous spirit, Mario Kart World incorporates an overworld map reminiscent of classic Super Mario Bros. titles. This feature enables players to explore between races, with Nintendo suggesting drivers can traverse “virtually everywhere” in this sequel, drawing comparisons to the open-world design of the Forza Horizon series. Adding another layer of depth, the game will feature dynamic weather patterns that evolve as players progress.

Launch Title for Nintendo Switch 2 with Enhanced Online Play

Mario Kart World is slated to launch alongside the Nintendo Switch 2, and anticipation is building for a dedicated Nintendo Direct event scheduled for April 17, 2025, further detailing the game. The combination of freeform online gameplay and an unprecedented number of racers in a Mario Kart title is expected to showcase the new social capabilities of the Switch 2. These functionalities include integrated voice chat and an optional Nintendo webcam, sold separately, potentially paving the way for interactive online gaming experiences.

Price Point and Market Impact

However, Mario Kart World is also breaking new ground in terms of pricing. It will be Nintendo’s first game with a standard price of $80, with physical versions incurring additional costs in the UK and Europe. While the game is touted as potentially the best Mario Kart installment to date, this price increase has sparked concerns among fans regarding a potential trend of higher game prices in the Switch 2 era.

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Price Update

Update: April 11, 2025, 12:11 PM: Clarification indicates that the $80 price point for the physical edition of Mario Kart World is confirmed for the U.S. market. The elevated pricing appears to be specifically impacting the UK and European regions.

This report is part of ongoing coverage from Kotaku on the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct. For comprehensive news from the event, refer to our roundup featuring launch titles, pricing details, release date announcements, pre-order information, and insights into the speculated ‘C button’ functionality of the new console.

Stay tuned for continuous updates and in-depth analysis throughout the day as Nintendo unveils details about its most eagerly awaited console launch. Further information regarding the Switch 2 Direct and Nintendo Treehouse Live demos scheduled throughout the week can be accessed here.

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