Mario Kart World Review: Nintendo Switch 2’s Best Game Is Already Here

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As a devoted fan, I can’t help but feel like it’s understandable for others to perceive Nintendo as taking a break with the Mario Kart franchise from my vantage point. Leaving aside the Japanese-exclusive arcade titles, mobile spinoffs, and the innovative Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit experiment, the past decade has only seen one new primary game, which is essentially an upgraded version of a Wii U title.

As a dedicated gamer, I can confidently say that the latest addition to the Mario Kart franchise, Mario Kart World, has breathed fresh excitement into my gaming world. If it happens to be the sole Mario Kart game released for the Switch 2, I won’t be one to argue. In fact, I believe many of us in the gaming community would wholeheartedly agree that it would be a fantastic conclusion to this iconic series on this platform.

Instead of racing on separate tracks as in previous series, this time each race takes place within an interconnected world. For the first time, different stages are part of a larger, continuous map. It’s quite fascinating to watch how these themed stages connect with one another during the Grand Prix tournaments.

Absolutely, stepping beyond the traditional character choices, you can venture into this expansive universe on your own or join forces with friends online. Along the way, you’ll stumble upon intriguing side quests – from seeking out hidden treasures like Peach Medallions and Yoshis to tackling P-Switch challenges that test your driving skills to remote locations or your ability to gather coins within tight time constraints. While the open world might seem spacious yet empty at times, the thrill of discovery is undeniably enjoyable!

Absolutely, the core aspect of Mario Kart World, which is the racing itself, remains as tight as always. However, it’s important to note that dedicated fans of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe might find some differences beneath the surface. For instance, customizing karts is no longer an option. While each individual kart still has unique characteristics, there’s no more swapping between frames, wheels, or gliders. Additionally, the driving experience feels more physics-based and somewhat heavier compared to the precise handling of earlier versions. Inside drifting, a feature from previous games, is now absent, resulting in all bike types having similar controls.

It may appear as though taking a step back, but in reality, the peak of mastery has never been higher due to several minor adjustments. For example, carrying bananas and turtle shells behind you automatically now gives you more time to concentrate on steering. For players who enjoy pushing mechanics to their maximum potential, the addition of charge jumping enables you to clear small hurdles, while when combined with rail grinding and wall riding, opens up opportunities for incredibly advanced gameplay. Just a week into Mario Kart World’s release, we’re already witnessing creative strategies being developed by players in an effort to decrease their race times.

Mario Kart World Review: Final Verdict

In its vast open environment, Mario Kart World offers numerous race tracks, introduces fresh gaming modes like Knockout Tour (a racing battle royale-style game featuring 24 players), and is packed with unlockables. This game seems poised to be a staple on the Switch 2 for many years to come, remaining vibrant and appealing. While longtime racers may need to adapt to some refined adjustments, those eager to embrace this new chapter of Mario Kart can expect an enjoyable experience.

SCORE: 9/10

According to ComingSoon’s review guidelines, a rating of 9 means “Excellent.” Such entertainment stands out as the best in its category, setting the bar high for all creators to aspire to achieve.

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2025-06-14 00:40