Mario Kart World: New Features, Huge Roster, and Launch Details on Switch 2

Get ready to race! Mario Kart World is set to launch on June 5, 2025, alongside the Nintendo Switch 2, promising a revolutionary experience for fans of the beloved franchise. But with all the hype, is it living up to expectations?

One under-the-radar feature creating buzz is the ability to adjust the camera mid-race. As discovered at the Switch 2 Experience in London by N1ckSketch, players will have greater control over their perspective, allowing them to look left, right, and even up and down. While you can't switch to a first-person view or zoom out like in Mario Kart 64, this addition borrows from racing sims like Forza Motorsport, offering a more immersive experience. Imagine scoping out rivals behind you during a tense race or discovering hidden secrets in the open-world Free Roam mode! "Camera good," as one user aptly put it.

Mario Kart World boasts a massive roster of 50 racers! This surpasses even Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. While the sheer number of characters is impressive, with plenty of kart customization options, some are questioning the selection. Is Nintendo prioritizing quantity over quality?

Some fans are disappointed by the inclusion of obscure characters like Cataquack while missing out on popular choices from other Nintendo franchises, especially Animal Crossing. The absence of Isabelle and other beloved DLC characters from previous entries has left a noticeable void.

Instead of simply adding more characters, perhaps Nintendo should have focused on giving each racer unique abilities, transforming the game into a 'Hero Racer'. Imagine Mario warping through pipes or Bowser launching fireballs! This could have added a new layer of strategy and depth to the gameplay.

For those eager to dive into Mario Kart World, the Nintendo Switch 2 bundle offers a digital copy of the game. The redemption process varies depending on your region. In the US, Canada, and Japan, the game is registered directly through the Nintendo eShop. In the UK, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, a download code is provided.

Will Mario Kart World live up to the hype? The addition of camera controls and the promise of an open-world experience is exciting, but the character roster has sparked debate. What do you think of the character choices? Will you be racing into Mario Kart World on day one? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

• Mario Kart World
• Nintendo Switch 2