Mario Kart Universe (Nintendo Switch 2)

Okay, picture this: you’ve just snagged the Nintendo Switch 2, yeah? Been burning up the tracks in Mario Kart World. Like, are you still glued to the racing wheel, or have you started parking it? Just thinking out loud here—what’s under the hood now that the new toy feeling’s worn off?

So, it’s been what, like forever since the last new Mario Kart? This one’s got to bring it. Twenty-four racers jostling for position—it’s chaos! But the tracks are big, so you’re not stuck in a traffic jam getting pummeled by shells. Nice, right?

Racing solo or with friends, or hey, strangers online—you gotta keep this game running for the long haul. My first online match—ah, the glory—I actually won a couple. Felt smooth, and with game chat, it was even better. But you’ll probably start solo, find your groove. Or your wheels… whatever.

And hey, they kept the classics—Grand Prix, Time Trials, VS Race. No 200cc, but trust me, 150cc still feels like riding on the edge. But man, Knockout Tour? That’s high-stakes drama right there. Keep your eyes open, don’t forget to blink. Oh, and check the settings, ‘cause who knows why smart steering is the default.

Didn’t chat about Battle mode because, well, it’s kind of lagging. Just Balloon Battle and Coin Runners so far. The tracks feel a bit like Mario Kart 8’s appetizer course—you drive around a lot hunting your competition. Been a fan since Mario Kart 64, so here’s hoping it gets a revamp.

And talk about hidden gems, did you spot the tiny map icon? Let’s you wander ‘round all the big regions. Weird they didn’t make it more obvious—maybe they’re banking more on Knockout Tour, who knows?

Free Roam’s kind of fun though—drive around, collect coins, snap some pics as the sun sets. Made me wanna, I dunno, jump out and explore on foot. The P Switches keep ya on your toes, though. They aren’t chill. Tough, sometimes super tough—mission-wise I mean.

Updates? Yeah, definitely need some. Like, tracking missions better would be a start. So. Many. Costumes. Interface, please help us out here. And what’s up with all the stickers? They feel like an afterthought. Help, Nintendo!

More updates would be solid, for sure. Longer P Switch missions on classic tracks—heck yes. The soundtrack’s killer too. Imagine cranking your playlist as you cruise—SWEET.

Okay, admit it—are the tracks confusing? They’re fun, sure, and tightly linked, but kinda lose the old charm. Older tracks, even remixed, just aren’t as… new? Like, come on, Choco Mountain again? Though hey, Toad’s Factory came back, so yay? DK Spaceport’s my favorite new one, but why do I need to unlock DK by beating the first cup?

Longtime fans, newcomers alike—Mario Kart World’s rocking some cool moves and surprises. Racing as a cow? Seriously didn’t think that’d be a thing, but here we are. Newbies might find this is the game to beat for its time.

After weeks on the tracks, here’s my take: Mario Kart World’s a blast—sounds and looks awesome, feels slick on Switch 2. Worth the bundle price. But, for $79.99 on its own, it’s lacking a bit—fewer original tracks, fewer features. Keeping fingers crossed for more content. It’s worth your time, though, crossing the finish line like a pro.