Games / Action

Mario Kart World

Jun 5, 2025Action · RacingE

4.2

User rating

33 ratings

$79.99eShop

Check price on Amazon Nintendo eShop

Buying digital? Top up with an eShop gift card.

Nintendo eShop gift card on Amazon

Affiliate link: we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Amazon sells the physical edition where one exists.

Prices checked 14 Oct 2026

Trailers

Screenshots

Our take

At $79.99, Mario Kart World offers a fresh take on the classic racing formula, but it might feel steep for those who expected a more traditional experience. The knockout tour mode adds intrigue, yet the interconnected world can be hit or miss depending on your playstyle. For fans of the franchise looking for something different, it’s worth considering, but newcomers may want to wait for a price drop.

Mario Kart World reinvents the series with its vast interconnected map, providing a sense of freedom that hasn't been seen before. The knockout tour mode ramps up the intensity, making every race a high-stakes competition where only the bravest survive. However, the free roam mechanic feels a bit shallow - after a while, just driving around can feel repetitive without goals to drive towards. On the visual front, the game excels with bright colors and detailed environments, creating an inviting atmosphere. Performance on the Switch 2 is mostly solid, but expect occasional frame drops during hectic races with many racers. Compared to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, this feels both like an evolution and a gamble, making it appealing to fans looking for something new.

Pros

Knockout tour mode introduces a fresh competitive edge, elevating races with elimination stakes.
The interconnected environment encourages exploration, allowing players to venture off the track and discover hidden areas.
Graphics are sharp and colorful, taking full advantage of the Switch 2's capabilities.

Cons

Free roam feels underutilized; without objectives, it can lead to aimless driving.
Some performance hiccups in crowded races, leading to occasional frame drops.
The price point is high compared to previous entries in the series, which may deter casual players.

Players can race through connected courses in various modes, with knockout tour challenging you to survive successive races. The free roam feature lets you explore the vibrant world at your own pace, but it lacks meaningful interactions. Customization options for karts and characters are also present, allowing for personal flair before hitting the track.

On Switch 2

The game runs well on Switch 2, but you might notice some frame rate dips in crowded areas, especially in handheld mode. The controls are responsive, maintaining the franchise's trademark tightness, whether docked or undocked, providing a consistent experience throughout.

Who it's for

This is for dedicated Mario Kart fans eager for a different spin on the series, especially those who enjoy competitive play. However, casual players or newcomers might find better value in earlier titles or wait for a price reduction.

About

Put the pedal to the metal in a vast interconnected environment. Race seamlessly across connected courses like never before. Participate in the new knockout tour elimination mode, where you’ll barrel through back-to-back courses and checkpoints. And in free roam, it’s possible to go off the racetrack and drive in any direction you wish, explore areas that pique your interest and take some photos at scenic spots with a group of friends.