How to Download ‘Mario Kart World’ on Nintendo Switch 2

How to Download ‘Mario Kart World’ on Nintendo Switch 2: The Complete 2025 Guide

Are you a die-hard Mario fan eagerly waiting to zoom through new landscapes with your favorite characters? You’re not alone. The 2025 release of Mario Kart World has taken the gaming community by storm, offering a bold new take on the iconic racing franchise. Whether you’re a long-time enthusiast or a new racer, this guide will walk you through every step of downloading the game, understanding its features, and making the most of your experience on the Nintendo Switch 2.

Page Index

What Is Mario Kart World?

Released globally on June 5, 2025, Mario Kart World is the most ambitious title in the Mario Kart series to date. Unlike its predecessors, this game introduces a fully interconnected open-world racing experience. Designed exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2, it allows players to freely roam expansive maps, transition between races in real time, and enjoy chaos-packed multiplayer matches with up to 24 racers simultaneously.

Some of the standout features include:

Open-World Exploration: Think of Mario Kart meets Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild — large terrains, hidden shortcuts, interactive NPCs, and dynamic weather.
Knockout Tour Mode: An elimination-style mode where players compete until only one driver remains.

Free Roam Mode: No laps, no timers. Just exploration, power-up collection, and spontaneous fun.
Expanded Character Roster: Play as returning fan-favorites or discover newly introduced characters.
Local & Online Multiplayer: With support for up to 24 players online and 4 players locally, the game brings a whole new level of competitive excitement.

Advanced Customization: Customize your karts, characters, and even racing gear for an individualized experience.

Whether you’re a casual player or a seasoned karting veteran, Mario Kart World promises a refreshingly fun experience while staying true to the franchise’s arcade-style roots.

System Requirements to Play Mario Kart World

Before jumping into the steps to download the game, you need to ensure you meet all the system prerequisites. Since Mario Kart World is a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive, here are the key requirements:

1. Nintendo Switch 2 Console

First and foremost, you need to own a Nintendo Switch 2. The game is not available for previous-generation consoles like the original Switch or Switch Lite.

2. Nintendo Account

To download and play the game, you must have a Nintendo Account. This allows access to the Nintendo eShop and is also required for online multiplayer.

3. Nintendo Switch Online Subscription (Optional but Recommended)

Although you can play the game offline in single-player or local multiplayer modes, a Nintendo Switch Online membership is required for online matchmaking and rankings.

4. Stable Internet Connection

A reliable internet connection is necessary for downloading the game digitally and for accessing multiplayer content.

5. Optional Accessories

Extra Joy-Con Controllers: For local multiplayer fun.
Joy-Con Racing Wheels: These accessories can elevate your immersive experience.

MicroSD Card: Since the game requires significant storage space (approx. 25–30 GB), having a high-capacity memory card is a smart choice.

How to Download Mario Kart World: Step-by-Step Guide

Let’s now walk through all the different methods to download Mario Kart World, whether you prefer digital or physical copies.

Method 1: Download Mario Kart World Digitally via Nintendo eShop

Step 1: Set Up Your Nintendo Switch 2

Make sure your Switch 2 is powered on and connected to Wi-Fi. Update the system firmware if needed.

Step 2: Create or Log in to Your Nintendo Account

Navigate to System Settings > Users > Add User and sign in using your Nintendo credentials. If you don’t have an account, you can create one at accounts.nintendo.com.

Step 3: Open Nintendo eShop

From the HOME menu, tap the Nintendo eShop icon. Select the user account you wish to use.

Step 4: Search for ‘Mario Kart World’

Use the search bar to type Mario Kart World. Look for the official listing that shows the publisher as Nintendo.

Step 5: Purchase the Game

Click on the game title, review the price, and hit “Proceed to Purchase.” Choose your payment method — credit card, PayPal, or Nintendo eShop funds.

Step 6: Download the Game

After payment, the game will begin downloading automatically. Make sure your console remains connected to the internet until installation is complete.

Method 2: Download Mario Kart World Using a Bundle

If you’re new to Nintendo or planning to gift the game, consider buying a Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World bundle.

Step-by-Step:

Purchase the bundle from a retail or online store.
Power up the console and follow the on-screen setup prompts.
Once registered, you’ll be prompted to redeem the preloaded digital code for Mario Kart World.

The game will begin downloading automatically.

This method is beginner-friendly and ideal for first-time Nintendo buyers.

Method 3: Physical Game Card (Cartridge Option)

If you’re someone who prefers owning physical copies, you can also buy Mario Kart World in cartridge format.

How to Use:

Purchase the game card from an authorized retailer (online or local).
Insert the cartridge into the game slot on your Nintendo Switch 2.
The system will detect the game and initiate a small update/download (if required).

Launch and start playing immediately.

Note: Even physical copies may require an initial update patch for online features and performance enhancements.

Tips for Optimizing Your Mario Kart World Experience

1. Enable Cloud Saves

Turn on cloud saving through System Settings > Data Management > Save Data Cloud, so you don’t lose your progress due to system issues.

2. Join Online Tournaments

The game offers regular themed tournaments hosted by Nintendo and global fans. Visit the Online Play > Tournaments section to participate.

3. Customize Control Settings

Not a fan of motion controls or default sensitivity? You can head over to Settings > Controllers and Sensors to remap buttons, adjust tilt steering, and toggle auto-accelerate.

4. Explore Secret Routes

The open-world maps are filled with hidden areas, unlockables, and Easter eggs. Make sure to explore every zone instead of just racing to the finish line.

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

Game Not Appearing in eShop?

Ensure your console region matches the game’s availability.
Restart your console and try again.
Visit the official Nintendo website to confirm regional release details.

Slow Download Speeds?

Switch to a 5 GHz Wi-Fi band.
Download overnight or during off-peak hours.
Pause other downloads or background apps.

Can’t Connect to Multiplayer?

Verify your Nintendo Switch Online subscription is active.
Test your internet connection under Settings > Internet > Test Connection.
Restart the console if the issue persists.

What Makes Mario Kart World a Must-Have in 2025?

The game isn’t just another installment — it’s a reimagination of everything that makes Mario Kart fun, combined with next-gen enhancements. Here’s why it’s already a fan-favorite:

Massive World Maps with diverse themes from jungles and spaceports to volcanic islands.
Real-Time Events, including weather changes, boss races, and in-world competitions.

Cross-Character Missions: Team up with characters from other Nintendo franchises.
Advanced AI Opponents that adapt to your skill level.

Mario Kart World has taken the franchise beyond circuits and laps. It has become a sprawling universe where every drive feels like a new adventure.

Final Thoughts: Time to Hit the Track!

If you’ve loved previous Mario Kart titles like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Double Dash, or even the classic Mario Kart 64, then Mario Kart World is your next obsession. With its massive player base, groundbreaking open-world approach, and thrilling new game modes, it has set a new standard for racing games on the Nintendo platform.

So, whether you’re grabbing the digital download, buying a Switch 2 bundle, or collecting a physical copy, there’s never been a better time to join the race.

Quick Recap: How to Download Mario Kart World

Method	What You Need	Steps
Digital Download	Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Account	Visit eShop > Search Game > Purchase > Download
Physical Game Card	Retail copy	Insert game > System update (if needed) > Play
Console Bundle	Bundle purchase	Set up console > Redeem included game code > Download

Now it’s your turn! Ready to drift, boost, and banana-peel your way to victory in the biggest Mario Kart game ever? Power up your Nintendo Switch 2, download Mario Kart World, and let the adventure begin!