Mario rast im Kart mit roter Panzerladung durch eine sandige Kurve in Mario Kart World

Nintendo Switch 2 & Mario Kart World: Acclaimed launch with minor flaws

Written on

Jun 27, 2025

The new Nintendo Switch 2 is a complete success: with 3.5 million units sold in just four days, it is the fastest-selling Nintendo console of all time.

Mario Kart World, the launch title, is praised above all for its smooth gameplay and open world - but it is also criticized for its price and some game mechanics.

Community praise: Performance & controls

Players praise how Mario Kart World on the Switch 2 scores with bombastic graphics and a stable 120 FPS mode - especially in fast-paced online races with 24 drivers. Joy-Con 2 and 4K docking also receive positive feedback.

Point of criticism: Price & surprises

Despite the enthusiasm, the community expresses concerns about the high price: the game costs €79.99 digitally, €89.99 physically and the console €469.99, which many find expensive. Ex-Nintendo employees are also warning of a possible "DLC fiasco" if Nintendo does not remain transparent about the additional content.

Gameplay mechanics: Consistency > Victory?

In the online "Survival" mode, an ELO system is causing displeasure: you can win races and still lose points if you don't run checkpoints consistently. Many fans feel unfairly treated.

Open world & 24 player mode

Will the new open world in Mario Kart World live up to expectations? Some players rate it as Forza Horizon-like and are happy about the mix of free exploration and sequences like "Knockout Tour". On Reddit, fans have mixed opinions: some find the graphics too close to its predecessor, others are looking forward to the series' next outing.

Insights

  • ✅ Technically impressive: graphics, performance and controls meet with great approval.

  • ⚠️ Price controversial: High costs are a frequent point of criticism.

  • ⚙️ Mechanics questionable: Points system and DLC strategy are viewed skeptically.

  • 🔄 Openness triggers debate: Open world excites many, others miss content.

Conclusion: Recommended purchase with reservations

The Switch 2 impresses with a strong launch - an upgrade that really offers something in terms of technology and stability. Mario Kart World delivers a terrific racing experience - but the price, DLC policy and some gameplay decisions have left the community divided. For fans, it's still a must-have - but users of external platforms have to weigh up the pros and cons.