Mario Kart World, launching alongside the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5th, introduces an open-world experience while preserving the beloved gameplay. Players can explore a vast mushroom kingdom, engage in various modes like Grand Prix and Survival, and compete with up to 24 racers simultaneously. New features add strategic depth, making each race thrilling. Priced at 80 euros for digital and 90 euros for physical, this installment revitalizes the franchise, offering both multiplayer excitement and enriched solo exploration.
Experience the Thrill of Mario Kart World
Mario Kart World marks the highly anticipated launch title for the Nintendo Switch 2, and we had the chance to dive deep into its vibrant universe. While the classic gameplay that fans adore remains intact, the introduction of an open world truly transforms the experience. Here are our first impressions of this exciting new chapter.
Unleashing the Magic on June 5th
The Switch 2 is set to hit the shelves on June 5th, and Nintendo is banking on Mario Kart World as a surefire hit to accompany its launch. This new installment promises to retain the franchise’s charm while introducing refreshing elements that elevate gameplay.
Mario Kart stands out as the quintessential multiplayer game, whether you’re hosting a gathering with friends or enjoying a quick match during a work break. With Mario Kart World, the series aims to continue being the go-to game for everyone, but it adds an intriguing twist with its open-world design.
Diving into Gameplay Modes
We explored Mario Kart World through three different game modes: Grand Prix, Survival, and Free Mode. The moment we grabbed the controller, our instincts kicked in, and it felt just like the beloved Mario Kart 8—fun, accessible, yet challenging. New features, such as the ability to “ride” on rails and the introduction of unique items that allow players to change outfits, add strategic depth to races, although they don’t dramatically alter the core gameplay.
The standout feature is undoubtedly the open world. Instead of racing on confined tracks, players are unleashed into a vast mushroom kingdom filled with diverse environments. In Free Mode, you can explore this expansive universe, discover hidden bonuses, and familiarize yourself with crucial areas. The world design invites exploration, allowing players to stray from the main paths and uncover treasures in fields or deserts. The variety is impressive, taking you from a coastal city to Bowser’s castle in mere moments, reminiscent of the Forza Horizon experience that enriches solo play.
This open-world concept reshapes the dynamics of the other game modes. During our Grand Prix trials, we navigated circuits interconnected by various sections, creating a sense of adventure as we raced from one location to another on the map. It truly felt like a journey, and we loved every minute of it!
The race structure also sees a significant change with the introduction of up to 24 players competing simultaneously. This increase turns each competition into a thrilling free-for-all, perfectly aligning with the open-world philosophy. The expansive roads are filled with branches, enhancing the excitement of every race.
We also tried our hand at Survival mode, competing against twenty-three other players. The objective is straightforward: race from one end of the map to the other without stopping, but with sections that eliminate four players at the end of each segment. This engaging format adds tension to each turn and kept us on our toes. However, we must confess that we struggled, as our competitors were ruthless and exceptionally skilled!
Overall, our session with Mario Kart World left us exhilarated. This installment breathes new life into a beloved series that was beginning to feel stagnant. It’s not just a game for multiplayer fun with friends; the enhanced solo experience provided by the open world makes it a must-have.
The release coincides with the launch of the Switch 2 on June 5th, with a price tag of 80 euros for the digital version and 90 euros for the physical edition. While it may seem steep, this is a game that promises hours of enjoyment.