Alright, so here’s the deal. You’ve got your shiny new Nintendo Switch 2, and what’s the first thing you do? Probably dive headfirst into Mario Kart World, right? That’s what everyone’s doing. Weeks of zooming around, checking out this big, sprawling open map they’ve thrown at us. Engines roaring, rubber burning. Or maybe you’ve already hit the brakes, parked your kart, and called it a day? Let’s pop the hood on this beast and see what’s really going on under there.
So yeah, it’s been what… over a decade since we got a fresh Mario Kart? Crazy, right? They’ve piled on 24 racers, a mix of bikes and karts. It’s like trying to squeeze too many clowns into a tiny car, but thankfully, the tracks have expanded. A nice bit of breathing room, finally. Different routes so you don’t end up buried by shells from some slacker way at the back.
Single player, multiplayer, online—take your pick. Playing online with the crew was wild. Can’t believe I actually won a couple of games, which never happens. Everything runs smooth, even the game chat (free for now, but who knows). You’ll probably kick things off solo, kind of like getting your sea legs, or, um, wheel legs?
Anyway—wait, where was I? Oh right, they’ve kept the classic modes like Grand Prix and Time Trials. No 200cc, but 150cc still keeps you on your toes. But honestly, the Knockout Tour steals the show. Knock out four losers at each checkpoint—talk about keeping you on edge. Been a while since I blinked, must remember to do that.
Battle mode, though? Yikes. Not exactly setting the world on fire, only offering Balloon Battle and Coin Runners. Feels like a half-baked cake. Reminds me of when Mario Kart 8 came out on Wii U. Loads of driving around, hunting for the competition like they’re hiding or something. Loved this mode since forever ago (Mario Kart 64 days!), so I’m hoping they give it some TLC.
Now, for those who haven’t noticed—there’s this tiny map icon on the main screen letting you explore freely. Weird it’s not more noticeable! Seems like they’re banking on the Knockout Tour being the main event. Guess that’s how the cookie crumbles, huh?
Free Roam mode? Surprisingly fun. Seriously, just driving around, collecting stuff, watching the sun go down—it’s got this chill vibe. Makes me want to hop out and just… wander around. But those P Switches—yikes—super tricky. Like, they require new skills, jumping, rail riding, the works. Might need a bit more polish, but eh, what’s new?
They could definitely throw in some updates. A better way to track missions, maybe? Too many costumes, too little organization. And the stickers—what’s the point of those again? I mean, something more engaging would be nice.
Broader changes could be cool, too. Those P Switch missions are like a blast from the past, racing along classic tracks. Imagine if they popped up throughout the game to boost the track lineup. And the soundtrack—wow. Major nostalgia hit with some rad remixes. Giving players a way to play DJ while racing? That’d be epic.
Tracks are… different. A bit conflicted here. All fun, but since they’re connected, they kinda blur together. The older tracks, remixed or whatever, don’t quite pop in a new way.
This retro stuff is great, but let’s mix it up more. I mean, Choco Mountain is awesome and all, but enough with the reruns! Give us more fresh stuff like DK Spaceport—unlock DK after nailing the first cup, by the way.
So yeah, long-time fans will have a blast. Newbies? This might be a killer intro to the series. It’s a neat package, really, even if I feel a little shortchanged compared to older games. Here’s hoping for some free DLC to spice things up. But seriously, Mario Kart World—definitely worth checking out. Full speed ahead and all that jazz.
