Mario Kart World, the ninth edition of Nintendo’s beloved racing game, comes out next week. And while fans of the games (and perhaps the movie, and the Universal theme park rides) can expect to see a lot of familiar Mario Kart elements, there’s also plenty of new stuff to look forward to — and a whole new Nintendo device to secure so you can play. Here’s everything you need to know before playing Mario Kart World, including where you can pre-order the game, how to get the Nintendo Switch 2, new game modes, confirmed courses and more.
Mario Kart World release date:
Mario Kart World comes out on June 5 in conjunction with the Nintendo Switch 2. Pre-orders are open now for the new game.
Mario Kart World price:
The cost of the new Mario Kart game starts at $79. You can also bundle the game with the new device you’ll need to play it. The Nintendo Switch 2 on its own costs $450, or with the game bundle, $499 — saving you $30 on Mario Kart World.
Mario Kart World gaming system:
Mario Kart World will be exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2, so if you were wondering, “Can I play the new Mario Kart game on my original Nintendo Switch?” the answer, unfortunately, is no. You can, however, order a bundle that includes the new Mario Kart World game and the Nintendo Switch 2.
You can bundle the Nintendo Switch 2 and the new Mario Kart World game together and save $30 as opposed to purchasing the two separately.
Mario Kart World courses:
Here are the game courses confirmed by Nintendo so far:
Mario Kart World modes:
The new Mario Kart game features two flagship modes: Grand Prix mode, which consists of a series of four races in pursuit of the podium and a Cup (of which there are seven), and Knockout Tour mode, where you race in elimination-style matches.
There are also Time Trials, Vs. Race, Battle Mode and Free Roam, which allows you to drive around and explore the whole of Mario Kart World.
There’s rumor of a Reverse mode after characters were spotted racing in reverse in a Japan-only Mario Kart World ad. Perhaps an unlockable mode to replace Mirror mode? Time will tell if that rumor proves true.
Mario Kart World Grand Prix Cups:
How many players can play Mario Kart World?
Who will you be battling in Mario Kart World? (Nintendo)
The number of players you can have in Mario Kart World varies for each multiplayer mode. The game can have four players in split-screen multiplayer, and up to eight players (via local wireless multiplayer) if four players have their own Nintendo Switch 2s. Up to 24 players can get in on the action in online multiplayer or battle mode.
Which characters are in Mario Kart World?
Who wants to play as Mario in the new Mario Kart World? (Nintendo)
Classic characters and newcomers will be available to race in the new Mario Kart game, including:
New:
