Nintendo has taken a bold step in revitalizing the Mario Kart series with its latest installment, Mario Kart World. After the 2014 release of Mario Kart 8 on the Wii U, the franchise has stuck to a tried-and-true formula, relying on nostalgia-rich DLC and course expansions rather than pushing for innovation.
Mario Kart World builds upon this foundation, introducing new modes, driving techniques, and emphasizing the vast open areas between courses. While this approach results in an inconsistent gaming experience, it injects fresh ideas into a series that has grown stale over time.
However, the game’s significant expansion – doubling the number of racers to 24 on each track – may lead to increased chaos. With more karts and items competing for attention, players are more likely to be caught off guard by shells, hammers, or other hazards that can quickly turn their racing position around.
Source: https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2025/06/mario-kart-world-review-getting-there-is-half-the-game