From an outsider’s perspective, it might seem like Nintendo has been coasting when it comes to the Mario Kart franchise. Excluding Japan-exclusive arcade titles, mobile spin-offs, and the mixed-reality Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit, there’s only been one mainline entry over the past decade — an enhanced port of the Wii U’s Mario Kart 8.
Now, with Mario Kart World, Nintendo breathes new life into the series. While this may end up being the sole Mario Kart title released for the upcoming Switch 2, if that’s the case, it’s a remarkably strong entry to hold the spotlight.
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The game’s title hints at its biggest shift in design philosophy: a truly interconnected open world. For the first time in franchise history, races are not limited to standalone tracks. Instead, every racing stage is part of a seamless, expansive map. Grand Prix tournaments unfold across specific zones, and there’s genuine satisfaction in seeing each themed track connected naturally to the next.
Outside of races, players can explore the open world alone or with friends online. Side activities include collectible hunts — like Peach Medallions and hidden Yoshis — and P-Switch challenges that test your skills by racing to remote locations or gathering coins against the clock. While the world may occasionally feel a bit sparse, it still invites exploration and discovery.
Refined Racing with a New Feel
The core racing experience remains solid. However, longtime fans of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe may need time to adjust. Notably, kart customization is gone. Each kart has unique stats, but players can no longer mix and match frames, wheels, or gliders. The physics engine has also evolved — racing now feels slightly heavier and more momentum-based. The familiar inside drifting mechanic is also gone, leading to more uniform handling across bike types.
Despite what might feel like regressions, these changes introduce a higher skill ceiling. Items like bananas and turtle shells now auto-drag behind your kart, simplifying item management and letting you focus on racing. Meanwhile, new mechanics like charge jumping (for clearing small obstacles), rail grinding, and wall riding allow for high-level gameplay strategies.
In just one week, players have already started uncovering complex routes and advanced tactics to shave seconds off their race times — a testament to the game’s deep potential.
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Mario Kart World Review: Final Verdict
With its vast open world, creative track design, engaging new modes (like the 24-player Knockout Tour battle royale), and a treasure trove of unlockables, Mario Kart World firmly establishes itself as a pillar of the Switch 2 lineup. While seasoned fans may need to adapt to a new set of mechanics, those willing to embrace change will find this to be one of the most rewarding entries in the series.
Score: 9/10
As ComingSoon’s review policy notes, a 9 signifies “Excellent” — a gold-standard experience within its genre.
