Mario Kart World: Release date, gameplay and trailers

After first being revealed in the Nintendo Switch 2 trailer, we've since had much more info about the new title, and we're already hyped.

So, if you're after the latest news on Mario Kart World, we've got everything you need to know!

Mario Kart World release date

Mario Kart World will release on 5th June 2025.

This date coincides with the official release date of the Nintendo Switch 2 console.

It's hardly surprising that the game is a Switch 2 launch title as the series has traditionally been one of Nintendo's best sellers across all platforms.

This is especially true given that the game was first teased during the Nintendo Switch 2 first-look trailer.

Mario Kart World gameplay

Mario Kart World brings a huge number of changes to the series, the biggest of which is that the game is now open-world for the very first time.

Mario Kart World appears to take place on an island split into a variety of biomes with various races to complete across it.

Unlike in previous games, where players would select a particular race or Grand Prix, Mario Kart World allows you to drive off-road, exploring the world in between circuits and driving from one to another.

The game also features a day/night cycle, so races will take place at a different time of day depending on when you're playing it.

You can also seemingly now customise your racers, as various characters are shown to change their costumes mid-race during the trailer by picking up certain items.

The roster itself has been increased, too.

Mario Kart World trailers

Mario Kart World first became a hot topic of conversation after a short snippet appeared during the reveal trailer for the Switch 2.

At 1 minute and 41 seconds, you can see Mario and numerous other Nintendo characters racing around a track set in the desert.

This was followed up with a full trailer in the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct that took place on 2nd April 2025, officially confirming the name and release date, and showing off some gameplay.

When will we learn more about Mario Kart 9?

We expect to hear more about Mario Kart 9 on 17th April 2025, during its own Mario Kart Direct.

The presentation will be shown on Nintendo UK's YouTube, which can be found on its channel.

Check out more of our Nintendo Switch 2 coverage:

• Nintendo Switch 2 release date - when does it come out?
• Nintendo Switch 2 price - how much does it cost?
• Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders - where to buy
• Nintendo Switch 2 vs original Switch - what are the differences?
• Nintendo Switch 2 Experience - how to try out the new console in person
• Do Switch 2 games work on Switch 1? - are there Switch 2 exclusives?
• Switch 2 backwards compatibility explained - can you play OG Switch games on Switch 2?
• Switch 2 games - confirmed and predicted games

Read more on Nintendo:

• Nintendo Switch OLED review - handheld gaming levels up
• The very best Nintendo Switch games
• Nintendo Switch Pro release date - the latest rumours
• Best Nintendo Switch games for kids
• Nintendo Direct - when is the next live stream?
• Best Nintendo Switch micro SD cards to buy
• How to charge Nintendo Switch controllers
• The best Nintendo Switch Lite games - take these on the go
• How to connect Nintendo Switch to TV

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