World of Mario Kart (Nintendo Switch 2)

Sure, let’s give it a go:

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You know when you first step into a brand new Mario Kart world and it’s like stepping into a… well, a whole new world? Yeah, that’s the vibe most folks are getting with the Nintendo Switch 2 and Mario Kart World. Weeks have gone by since launch, and I’m sitting here wondering if we’re all still zooming around (or just hit the parking lot). It’s time to lift the hood and peek inside, huh?

This is the first fresh Mario Kart we’ve seen in ages, and it’s got to, like, bring it with the goods, right? If you’re into tons of racers — 24, to be exact — you’re in for a wild ride. The tracks? They’re all spread out, so no more getting hit in the head with shells from behind (not as often, anyway).

You can mash buttons solo, throw down in multiplayer, or go online and get smoked by strangers. Or is that just me? Nah, I did snag a win or two against my pals at PN. Trust me, that never happens. The online play runs smooth like butter and there’s chat, which, for now at least, doesn’t cost a thing! Oh, speaking of costs, you’ll probably want to fly solo first until you get the hang of things, eh?

Good ol’ Grand Prix and the rest are back, though no 200cc this time. Knockout Tour? Now that’s something. Last spot every checkpoint? Boom — out. Gotta love the thrill (or maybe hate it). My eyes probably dried out the first time I played. Oh, heads up! That “Smart Steering” nonsense might mess with your groove right out the gate.

Weird I haven’t rambled about Battle mode yet, but let’s be real — it feels kinda meh. Balloon Battle, Coin Runners, and maybe some déjà vu? Track designs took a few pages from Mario Kart 8’s book, tossing us back a bit. Not bad, but not ground-breaking.

Yeah, for some reason, Nintendo buried the map icon way down on the main screen. You can go full explorer mode if you find it. Why isn’t this in your face if it’s one of the main goodies? Questions for another day, maybe.

Everyone was hyped for Free Roam, and thankfully it didn’t let us down. Kind of zen in a “collect all the things” sort of way. I mean, just drifting through day-night cycles and, oddly enough, wishing I could hop out and wander on foot.

But those P Switches? Man, they’re… intense. Like, who decided jumping and rail riding had to be brutal? And even when you get ’em done, they leave you hanging. Maybe an update could help sort that out.

Wouldn’t mind seeing them beef up mission tracking, either. Costumes galore, and yet the interface? Ugh, let’s not. Stickers feel like a rushed afterthought, so toss us a bone there, Nintendo.

Hey, let’s toss out some heavy updates. Like, longer missions over retro tracks could spice things up. Oh, and a soundtrack you can mess with? Yes, please.

The tracks themselves — all fun, for sure. But they’re a bit of a blur, like sections of a never-ending route instead of distinct loops. Kinda noticed this especially with older tracks. Sure, they’re cool and shiny, but when half the lineup’s recycled… like, I love Choco Mountain, but come on. Fresh beats stale, every time. DK Spaceport’s a gem, though — classic arcade vibes for days.

OG fans and newcomers alike might find this karting adventure a blast. I mean, racing as a cow? Who even thought of that?! As time rolls on, I’m itching to see this world evolve.

After logging some serious hours, I think I can say Mario Kart World still sizzles — it’s snappy, stylish, and smooth on Switch 2. Worth the bundle, I’d say, though as a solo gig it misses a little. But we all know DLC’s coming to save the day, right? Anyway, it’s a race you don’t wanna miss. Finish line’s in sight with a big old grin.

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