Nintendo Launches Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5, 2025 — With the Ambitious Debut of Mario Kart World, the Franchise’s Biggest Revolution Yet. According to series producer Kosuke Yabuki in an interview with The Verge, the new game features an open world, support for up to 24 players, and fully integrated voice chat during races.

What’s New in Mario Kart World

Open World

Mario Kart World abandons the traditional track-based format in favor of one massive open world with diverse zones—from jungles to glaciers—that players can freely explore. Races can be launched from any point on the map, with no loading screens. Side quests, secret routes, and collectible items are also available.

24-Player Support

The maximum number of racers has been increased to 24. This makes races more chaotic and action-packed, especially in the new Knockout Tour mode, where the last players are eliminated after each lap.

New Mechanics

According to Yabuki, the game introduces rail grinding and in-place jumps, which can be used for tricks and finding alternate paths. These features allow for greater skill expression and strategic gameplay.

Built-in Voice and Video Chat

Thanks to the new Switch 2 hardware, the game is the first in the series to offer integrated voice and video chat. The console’s built-in camera shows your friends’ faces directly in the race interface. Nintendo says this will help “make multiplayer feel more vibrant and emotional.

Switch 2 Technical Innovations

Nintendo Switch 2 includes:

• Upgraded GPU and CPU (closer in power to a PlayStation 4)
• 7-inch OLED display
• Built-in camera for video chat
• Extended battery life (up to 8 hours)
• Backward compatibility with original Switch games

Release Date and Pricing

• Launch Date: June 5, 2025
• Mario Kart World comes bundled with launch packages
• Prices: €469.99 for the base Switch 2, €509.99 for the bundle with the game
• Available At: Amazon, El Corte Inglés, Fnac, MediaMarkt, GAME, and more
• Special Events: Midnight store openings, Nintendo-hosted livestreams and gameplay demos

Mario Kart World isn’t just a new installment—it’s a complete reinvention of the franchise’s formula. With its open world, 24-player support, and built-in video chat, the game showcases the full potential of Nintendo Switch 2 from the very start. Fans can expect a new era of racing—and it all begins tomorrow.