Mario Kart World Review

Karting Goes Open World

Mario Kart World is the boldest reinvention the series has ever attempted, stitching its courses into a single seamless open world you can free-roam between events. As a Switch 2 launch title, it makes a thunderous first impression.

Racing Feel

The racing is as tight and joyful as ever — buttery drifting, charged boosts, and new tricks and wall-rides — now scaled up to chaotic 24-racer fields. The new elimination-style Knockout Tour is a brilliant, nerve-shredding addition.

Glorious Item Chaos

The classic arsenal of shells, bananas, and the dreaded blue shell returns alongside new items, delivering the comebacks, rivalries, and last-second heartbreaks that define Mario Kart at its best.

Packed With Content

There’s a staggering amount to unlock, from a huge roster and karts to costumes earned via Dash Food and hidden challenges scattered across the open map, giving solo players plenty to chase.

Best in Company

As ever, it shines brightest in multiplayer. Local and online play deliver some of the finest couch competition in gaming.

A Few Niggles

The open world can occasionally feel sprawling between events, and a handful of modes don’t shine as brightly as the core racing.

Verdict

Mario Kart World is a bold, brilliant evolution of a beloved formula — essential for Switch 2 owners and a genuine high point for the series.