Nintendo is taking steps to steer the narrative surrounding the highly anticipated Switch 2 back into a positive light by unveiling its most exciting game yet, Mario Kart World. On April 17th, the gaming giant held a dedicated presentation showcasing 15 minutes of exhilarating gameplay, highlighting numerous new features that players can expect.
Mario Kart World promises a thrilling racing experience with an array of new courses designed to keep players engaged. Among the standout tracks is the Mario Bros Circuit, a vibrant course that has been featured in multiple promotional videos. Additionally, players can look forward to racing through Crown City, an urban-themed course, and Salty Salty Speedway, which offers a unique water racing experience. Fans of the series will be delighted to see the return of classic tracks like Peach Beach and Wario Shipyard.
One of the most exciting revelations is the hint that after completing all the Grand Prix cups, players will unlock a “certain colorful course,” which strongly suggests the return of the iconic Rainbow Road. With numerous new items and gameplay features, including a feather item that allows players to jump to avoid incoming attacks and a rewind feature to correct missed opportunities, Mario Kart World is set to redefine racing on the Switch 2.
In addition to the thrilling races, Mario Kart World will include a free roam mode where players can discover hidden secrets such as P-switches and panels that unlock additional overworld missions. This added layer of exploration enhances the overall gameplay experience and encourages players to delve deeper into the game’s expansive universe.
Despite the excitement surrounding Mario Kart World and the Switch 2, initial enthusiasm has waned due to the console's hefty price tag of $450. This cost is expected to rise further in the United States, largely due to the current tariff policies imposed during the Trump administration. Although a 90-day pause on tariffs has been announced, it remains to be seen how this will affect Nintendo's ability to ship units to the US market.
Moreover, the pricing of games is also a concern, with titles such as Mario Kart World retailing for $80, surpassing the $70 price point. Compounding the issue is the inability for US consumers to pre-order the Switch 2, a situation that has also affected Canadian consumers. Nintendo has not yet provided a timeline for when pre-orders will open in these regions, although the console is officially set to launch on June 5th.
As Nintendo prepares to release Mario Kart World alongside the Switch 2, fans are left eagerly awaiting further details and access to pre-orders. The innovative features and exciting gameplay showcased in the recent presentation highlight Nintendo's commitment to making Mario Kart World a standout title for the new console. Stay tuned for more updates and enjoy the full presentation below.
