Mario Kart Direct Unveils New Highlights

The recent Mario Kart World Direct unveiled exciting details about Nintendo's upcoming kart-racing adventure. Discover everything you need to know about the game's innovative open-world design and revolutionary features.

Mario Kart World Direct Highlights

An Interconnected World

Nintendo's April 17 presentation showcased the game's expansive world design. Players can freely explore familiar locations and brand-new environments across the Mushroom Kingdom.

As Nintendo explained: "Mario Kart World's courses are seamlessly connected through explorable roads, allowing players to transition naturally between racing circuits."

The game presents Mario's world like never before, featuring breathtaking landscapes and recognizable landmarks between races. Hidden collectibles and skill-building challenges await players exploring off the track.

The reveal included both returning favorites and new courses such as Mario Bros. Circuit, Crown City, Salty Salty Speedway, Starview Peak, Boo Cinema, Toad's Factory, Peach Beach, and Wario Shipyard - all redesigned for this groundbreaking Mario Kart experience.

Grand Prix and Knockout Tour

The game introduces two primary racing formats: Grand Prix and Knockout Tour, both supporting a record-breaking 24 racers. Drivers must navigate dynamic hazards including Bullet Bill-firing vehicles and Hammer Brother assaults.

The classic Grand Prix mode requires completing four consecutive races across cups like Mushroom, Flower, and Star. Players must now physically travel between race locations, with rumors suggesting Rainbow Road appears after completing all cups.

The new Knockout Tour presents an endurance challenge where racers must qualify at each checkpoint or face elimination during this cross-country competition.

Items, Characters, and More

The game introduces fresh items while bringing back classic favorites. New additions include:

• Coin Shell - Knocks out opponents while dropping collectible coins
• Ice Flower - Freezes competitors on contact
• Big Mushroom - Grows racers to massive sizes capable of squashing rivals

The roster features Mario series staples alongside debutants like Goomba, Spike, and Cow - each with unlockable alternate costumes hidden throughout the world.

Playing With Friends

The game offers numerous multiplayer options:

• Time Trials - Compete against global ghost data
• VS Mode - Custom team competitions
• Battle Mode - Includes classic Coin Runners and Balloon Battle variants

Players can enjoy:

• 4-player split-screen on one system
• 8-player local wireless (2 per Switch 2)
• Online play featuring Switch 2's GameChat communication system

Accessibility options include:

• Smart Steering - Prevents falling off tracks
• Auto-accelerate - Continuous driving assist
• Tilt controls - Motion-based steering
• Joy-Con 2 Wheel compatibility

Mario Kart World reimagines the racing genre with its unprecedented open-world design. Mark your calendars for June 5, 2025 - exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2. Stay tuned for more updates!