Please note: I received a copy of the game to facilitate this review but all opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links.
When I first heard that Mario Kart World would be exclusive to the new Nintendo Switch 2, I was all in- no hesitation. After countless hours over SEVERAL years playing Mario Kart 8, our family was starting to feel a bit burnt out on the same courses {even with all the extra tracks from the Nintendo Switch Online DLC}. We needed something fresh, and I was thrilled at the promise of new tracks alone. What I didn’t expect was just how much more Mario Kart World would deliver- it’s not just new content, it’s a total reimagining of what Mario Kart can be.
What I Loved
The new tracks are truly a standout. The visuals alone make them feel like mini adventures- they’re vibrant, detailed, and so immersive! Boo Cinema and Bowser’s Castle both quickly became family favorites, and the return of an old favorite track {no spoilers!} is so stunning that it genuinely feels like an entirely new experience. You can tell these tracks were designed to show off what the Switch 2 can do, and they absolutely succeed.
The open world element adds a great new layer to the game. Instead of just hopping from track to track- which you can still do if you prefer- you can actually explore a massive world between races. There are items to collect, hidden areas to find, and secrets to unlock that make it feel like a true adventure rather than just a racing game. It completely changes the pace in the best way and gives you so much more freedom!
I also loved the new unlockable content. You can earn new outfits by grabbing takeout food mid-race and unlock new characters in all sorts of creative ways. You also unlock new characters and new vehicles, which keeps you coming back for more because there’s always something new to chase. It adds a sense of personality and customization that I really enjoy, especially with picking different character outfits.
The music deserves its own shout-out, too! The soundtrack is bigger and more dynamic than ever, and it perfectly matches each track’s energy and style. Whether you’re drifting around sharp corners or exploring the open world, the music keeps you totally in the moment.
Finally, the overall performance on the Switch 2 is a huge leap forward. The load times are lightning fast, the textures are gorgeous, and the colors are almost too vibrant to believe. Everything feels smooth, and it makes the whole game even more fun to play.
What Could Be Better
I miss some of the older Battle modes from Mario Kart 8 and hope they’ll make a return as DLC down the line. That’s it- that’s the only thing I don’t like.
Overall Thoughts
Mario Kart World is everything I didn’t know I needed from a Mario Kart game- more immersive, more beautiful, and so much more to do. It feels like the game grew up with us and finally delivered the big, bold experience we’ve always dreamed of. Whether you’re playing solo, with family, or jumping into online races, there’s always something new waiting!
Is It Worth Getting the Console For?
If you’re thinking of buying a Switch 2 just for this game, that’s a pretty steep price tag- but if you know you’re getting a Switch 2 anyway and just don’t know if this is enough of a reason- I’m telling you, it is. {And if you’re getting a Switch 2 anyway, get the Mario Kart World bundle to get the game at a discount vs. buying them separately!} You can still play your older games on the Switch 2 and this game is a MUST play for anyone who loves the older Mario Kart games or just needs a good game to play with friends or family.
This game alone shows off the true potential of the Switch 2, and it makes me even more excited about what’s coming next. It’s a massive leap forward and easily one of the most fun experiences I’ve had in years! You can read more about my thoughts on the Switch 2 itself right here.
Buy It
You can buy Mario Kart World from the eShop or right here on Amazon or Best Buy.
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