Nintendo Switch 2 Launches with Mario Kart World and New Features
The Nintendo Switch 2 launches on June 5, featuring Mario Kart World, enhanced graphics, and new Joy-Con functionalities, but remains an iterative upgrade.
“Free Roam” mode isMario Kart World’s killer app
ARS Technica
Overview
The Nintendo Switch 2 launches on June 5, showcasing Mario Kart World, which features a vast interconnected world and 24-player races. Players can explore freely and engage in elimination-style races. The console boasts sturdier Joy-Cons, improved graphics, and new functionalities like mouse controls. However, some reviews suggest the Switch 2 is more of an iterative upgrade rather than a groundbreaking new console, with many existing games still playable on the original Switch. The launch also includes titles like Donkey Kong Bananza and enhanced versions of popular games, but concerns about pricing and necessity for an upgrade linger.
Content generated by AI—learn more or report issue.
Get both sides in 5 minutes with our daily newsletter.
Analysis
- The articles celebrate the new Free Roam mode in Mario Kart World, praising its creativity and engaging gameplay.
- The articles express excitement about the Nintendo Switch 2, highlighting its multiplayer features and game upgrades.
- Some articles suggest caution regarding the necessity of purchasing the Switch 2 immediately, indicating it may not be essential yet.
Articles (9)
"…Mario Kart World aims to leap the series forward into the modern era of gaming."
Rolling Stone·1M·"…I couldn’t wait to get back to Mario Kart World, which, once again, is fantastic."
The Guardian·1M·"…Mario Kart World heralds the next generation of the series, and it does so with a huge cast of playable racers."
Wired·1M·"…The biggest change to the game is right there in the title: an interconnected world map, Free Roam, that players can explore every part of, even outside of races."
Wired·1M·"…Free Roam provides a unique mixture of racing challenges, exploration, and collectibles that should keep new Switch 2 owners busy for a while."
ARS Technica·1M·"…The Switch 2 is very much an iterative upgrade for now."
CNET·1M·"…The Switch 2 is a better piece of hardware, no doubt, but the upgrade proposition feels pretty uncertain until Nintendo shows many more games that make it worth it."
CNET·1M·"…The Switch 2 is backward-compatible with the original Switch's game cartridges, letting you keep your library intact."
CNET·1M·"…Mario Kart World is a blast, especially in wild multiplayer matches."
CNET·1M·FAQ
Mario Kart World for Nintendo Switch 2 introduces a vast interconnected world where players can freely explore and race. It also features a Knockout Tour mode, where up to 24 players compete in a non-stop rally with checkpoints for elimination. Additionally, the game includes new maneuvers like riding on rails and jumping off walls.
In the Knockout Tour mode of Mario Kart World, up to 24 players compete in a continuous race across multiple connected courses without pit stops. Players are eliminated at checkpoints based on their performance, with the goal of being the last one standing.
The Nintendo Switch 2 offers improved graphics, sturdier Joy-Con controllers with new functionalities, and enhanced performance. However, it is considered an iterative upgrade, with many existing games still compatible with the original Switch.
History
- 1M4 articles