**Mario Kart World** stands out as the premier launch title for the **Nintendo Switch 2**, noted for both its strengths and weaknesses. It delivers an exceptionally enjoyable **Mario Kart** experience, honing the series’ hallmark fun to nearly flawless proportions. Nonetheless, it does not intend to serve as a revolutionary open-world adventure in the vein of **The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild** or other open-world racing titles like **Burnout Paradise** and **Forza Horizon**.
This game represents an excellent **Mario Kart** entry with an open-world aspect. Whether this is sufficient to warrant a launch purchase of a Switch 2 is a personal decision. While **Mario Kart World** may not completely tap into the potential of an open-world **Mario Kart**, it aligns with my expectations as a longtime fan who enjoys online gaming, highlighting the Switch 2’s strengths.
**Mario Kart World** is priced at $79 at **Walmart** and $79.99 at **Nintendo**, or you might consider the **Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle**.
For an in-depth review of the Switch 2, refer to my comprehensive hands-on analysis, but for now, let’s dive into my review of **Mario Kart World**.
### Mario Kart World might not meet your expectations
When Nintendo first unveiled **Mario Kart World**, many, including myself, were thrilled about the prospects of an open-world **Mario Kart** experience. However, **Mario Kart World** doesn’t quite live up to that vision.
After significant gameplay, I don’t view this as a downside, although it may be disappointing if you missed the later marketing that clarified the free roam feature as a secondary mode rather than the central focus. It’s an enjoyable method to unlock character costumes and tackle challenges, but the rewards primarily consist of stickers, which lack considerable value. These challenges cater to those who are passionate about the game.
The most surprising element of **Mario Kart World** is how minimally it affects my enjoyment. The open world serves to enhance the selected modes from the menu. Grand Prix races involve racing across tracks, while the new Knockout Tour mode, the game’s standout feature, presents a **Cannonball Run**-style cross-country race where players are gradually eliminated.
It’s easy to label the open world as “added on,” but that’s not entirely accurate. The concept of interconnected tracks is crucial to the main modes; Knockout Tour relies on the open world, providing justification for its presence. Most tracks can function as standard three-lap circuits during multiplayer races if desired.
However, Nintendo could enhance the rewards for free roaming. Stickers aren’t sufficient motivation for completing P-switch challenges. Nevertheless, **Mario Kart World** is enjoyable in its own right.
### But the essence of Mario Kart may be better than ever
Once you accept that **Mario Kart World** isn’t **Burnout Paradise** with blue shells, it really shines. Nintendo has made races more chaotic and entertaining than ever before.
Races now feature 24 competitors instead of 12, making the start of each race a delightful frenzy. If you’re not fond of being hit by unavoidable shells, be ready for more of that.
I appreciate this aspect of **Mario Kart**, as it adds excitement compared to other racing games. If I yearned for a game where driving skill alone secures victory, I’d choose a different racing title. I find comfort in knowing that perfection isn’t always sufficient due to unforeseen events. That’s life.
It’s also entertaining to drop from first to 20th place in mere seconds. Learning to laugh at oneself is essential for enjoying **Mario Kart**.
The driving mechanics in **Mario Kart World** could be my favorite in the series. Drifting for boosts remains crucial, but there’s a new charge jump mechanic for rail grinding and wall riding, introducing additional depth.
I haven’t fully investigated the shortcut possibilities these maneuvers provide, but the knowledge of more depth is satisfying. Executing a wall ride feels fantastic.
These features, combined with the Knockout Tour mode, create a game that I’ll engage with online for countless hours. Winning a Knockout Tour is exhilarating, unlike any previous **Mario Kart** victory.
### Mario Kart World is a remarkable showcase for the Switch 2
**Mario Kart World** is visually breathtaking, particularly on a 4K TV with HDR. The Switch 2’s enhanced capabilities and Nintendo’s art direction result in a visual treat.
The game is vibrant, colorful, and brimming with delightful details. Karts and racers respond in a cartoonish manner to impacts, explosions have comic-book style effects, and the water is stunning. **Mario Kart World** might feature the best-looking water in any game.
Beyond its technical excellence, **World** highlights the Switch 2’s online social features. I’ve had a great time participating in online races and Knockout Tours with friends using GameChat. **World** makes for a superb hangout experience.
### But there are some limitations in the online feature set
Sadly, the online features could be more extensive.
First, free roaming with friends is restricted to driving while waiting for races or Knockout Tours. P-switch challenges are missing, resulting in it functioning more like a lobby than