Mario Kart 8 Deluxe has been a massive success over many years, selling an impressive 68.2 million units on the original Nintendo Switch and 76.66 Million overall as it was also the best selling game on the Wii-U. It’s the best-selling game in the series, outperforming even legendary titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
Now, Mario Kart World aims to take things to the next level, delivering an open-world experience that could define the series, and maybe even the Nintendo Switch 2 itself.
What Makes Mario Kart World So Exciting?
Mario Kart World seems like an obvious move for the Nintendo Switch 2 console launch, expanding the game into an open world, adding fresh modes, vibrant visuals and let the fun begin. But even though the game comes with a hefty price tag (I’ll get to that soon), I don’t consider it a “cash grab”, as its well and truly packed with thoughtful, creative design choices that showcases Nintendo’s ability to reinvent a franchise without losing the core of what we loved about it in the first place, even if it takes them over 8 years to do it.
The game now has up to 24 drivers, creating massive, chaotic races that are unmatched in the franchise’s history. Locally, up to four players can compete on a single Switch 2 console, while eight can connect via local wireless play, making it perfect for both small gatherings and large online competitions.
Track variety is another highlight, with at least 30 core tracks available at launch, including classics like Rainbow Road and Bowser’s Castle, as well as brand-new courses. When factoring in alternate variants and the innovative “intermission tracks” that connect the main courses in the open world.
Part of the journey of fun with these games are the collectables and customisation options further enrich the experience. Players can unlock a wide range of characters, karts, and cosmetic items. Unlocking things is all part of the joy and pure addictiveness of the series and Mario Kart World does not disappoint.
Classic Grand Prix Mode Returns
Fans of the classic Mario Kart experience will be stoked to see the return of Grand Prix mode. This beloved feature lets you compete across four tracks per cup, with speed levels that challenge players of all skill levels. Some tracks now seamlessly integrate elements of the open world, introducing point-to-point races that feel dynamic and refreshing. And, of course, as the road build up to the new and impressive Rainbow Road, you realise that this version of the game stands out as a true masterpiece that is stunning both visually and as an exhilarating track to race on.
New Knockout Tour Mode
My new favourite way to race both online and offline is the brand-new Knockout Tour mode. This marathon-style race blends multiple tracks and locations into one long, seamless experience. This mode highlights just how big this game is and recreates the stress levels of the title by eliminating you if you are at the back of the back. First 20 get through, then first 16 and so on. It’s Mario Kart World’s version of a Battle Royal from Fortnite, and easilly the most addictive, rewarding and challenging mode in the new game.
Free Roam: A Bold New Direction
The biggest change most people will notice in Mario Kart World is the introduction of Free Roam mode. For the first time, players can explore a massive open world, uncovering secrets, completing missions, and discovering new challenges. Free Roam offers an exciting new way to experience Mario Kart. Playing with friends enhances the fun, blending the party-game vibe with open-world exploration for a unique multiplayer experience. What it highlights is how the “world” part of the title is actually fairly alive and active. Not a simple painted canvas behind the action, you can drive off into areas you would see in the background of your races and there are actual things to do there. Its a wonderful casual way to play the game and even practise your moves with the tutorial challenges that are scattered around.
Multiplayer and Online Features are Game Changing
To be honest, I’ve always felt that Nintendo’s online features have lagged behind competitors. However, with Mario Kart World and this generation of consoles, they’re clearly working to change that. The progress here is undeniable, and it’s exciting to see Nintendo stepping up their game.
Mario Kart World delivers a robust online multiplayer experience that, in my playthroughs, has been impressively smooth. Connection stability has been excellent, I haven’t encountered any lag or glitches during gameplay. What’s truly eye-opening, though, is seeing how players around the globe master the game in ways I hadn’t even considered. From clever shortcuts to perfectly timed boosts, it’s a reminder of just how much there is to learn by observing others.
How I justify the Price Tag
Seems every video I watch is from the US and they say “$80” game, well sorry team, in Australia we’ve been paying $80 for games for years. Now that Mario Kart World is here, in Aussie DollarBucks its a whopping $120 rrp, but you can get it for $110 at some stores. Now that might seem like a massive price and there’s no sugar coating it, it is. However, can you name a game that delivers a more enjoyable experience with such longevity. Mario Kart 8 deluxe came out in 2017 and I was still playing that in the week before Nintendo Switch 2 launched. Bang for buck on this title is certainly there. Now would I want to pay $120 for most other titles, absolutely not, but hey, with the rising costs of absolutely everything someone had to do it first and the door is now wide open for Grand Theft Auto 6 next year to charge whatever the heck they want.
Final Thoughts: Is Mario Kart World Worth It?
Mario Kart World represents a bold evolution of the beloved franchise, seamlessly blending the classic progression fans adore with innovative features like Free Roam and the absolutely brilliant Knockout Tour. The fan favourite character list is massive and unlocking the outfits and vehicles is as satisfying as it has ever been.
While it remains to be seen whether it will surpass the record-breaking sales of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, the game is poised to become an enduring success. Packed with an impressive array of content, breathtaking visuals, and addictive multiplayer modes, Mario Kart World is THE must-own title for the Nintendo Switch 2 and a perfect showcase for family friendly game nights.
Mario Kart World is Flawless Family Fun and Scores a 10 out of 10
