Mario Kart World: First New Game in Over a Decade Launches June 5 With Nintendo Switch 2

For the first time in more than ten years, Nintendo is releasing a brand-new mainline Mario Kart game — Mario Kart World. Following Mario Kart 8, which originally launched on the Wii U in 2014 and was later ported to the Switch, fans have been eagerly awaiting a true sequel. That wait is finally over.

📅 Release Date: June 5, 2025

Mario Kart World launches globally on Thursday, June 5, 2025, as a day-one title for the Nintendo Switch 2.

• Physical Copies: Those who pre-ordered or plan to purchase the physical version can start playing as soon as local retailers stock the game.
• Digital Download: If you're buying the digital edition via the eShop — either on its own or as part of the Switch 2 + Mario Kart World bundle — the game will be available at midnight local time in most regions.
• In North America, digital Nintendo releases typically unlock at 9 PM PT the night before, aligning with 12 AM ET, though exact release times may vary slightly by region.

While Nintendo has not confirmed specific digital release times for Switch 2 titles, all indications suggest they'll follow the same schedule as games on the original Switch.

❌ Will Mario Kart World Be Playable on the Original Switch?

No — Mario Kart World is exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2. It won’t be released for the original Switch, so players looking to jump in will need to upgrade to the new console.

💰 Bundle Option & Savings

To make the upgrade more appealing, Nintendo is offering a Switch 2 + Mario Kart World bundle for $499.99, saving players $29.99 compared to buying the console ($449.99) and the game separately ($79.99). The bundle will remain available until Fall 2025.