Funny timing: Right as Switch 2 was about to debut, I obtained my overseas driver’s license. While karting with Mario might not align with conventional driving education—particularly when steering as a dairy mascot—it offers unique thrills.

Navigating World’s sprawling circuits mirrors adapting to foreign roads. New rules emerge: swerve through wider lanes, commandeer vehicles via rear collisions, and grab power-ups mid-drift. Blurring reality and fantasy, these mechanics keep races fresh despite familiar roots.

While not revolutionary, the expanded roster (24 competitors) elevates pandemonium. Items collide unpredictably—imagine dodging explosives, traffic, and coin-based projectiles simultaneously. Multiplayer sessions reach new heights of glorious mayhem.

Core Mechanics

Series veterans will feel instantly at home. Grand Prix and Battle Mode retain their DNA, now enhanced by automatic item deployment for streamlined play. Vehicle customization pivots to 50+ distinct builds, where weight classes impact handling deeply. Toadette’s bike agility contrasts King Boo’s sturdy trike, showcasing nuanced physics when collisions occur.

Reimagined classics like Choco Mountain dazzle with industrial overhauls, though some tracks (looking at you, Moo Moo Meadows) feel nostalgically static. Battle Mode’s expansive arenas challenge coordination, sometimes stretching engagements too thin for optimal chaos.

Track Design

World connects circuits through an open overworld, creating marathon events. While intermission laps between destinations feel disjointed, dedicated Vs. Mode preserves traditional three-lap sprints. Environmental grinding mechanics—vine swings, rail slides—refresh navigation, though occasional janky hitboxes frustrate.

Knockout Tour Dominates

This elimination mode redefines tension. Surviving six checkpoints while avoiding bottom placements creates white-knuckle comebacks. AI adversaries punish mistakes ruthlessly—watch leads vanish from a well-timed green shell barrage. Victory demands constant adaptation, cementing Tour as the definitive multiplayer experience.

Exploration & Presentation

Monolith Soft’s environmental craftsmanship shines in Free Roam. While lacking BotW’s density, scenic vistas and photo ops abound. P-Switch trials test mastery—wall-jumping gaps or nailing drift chains rewards skill. Sticker collectibles underwhelm, but vehicle rewinds save failed attempts, adding strategic depth.

From sunset-lit highways to neon-bathed cityscapes, visual splendor complements buttery 60fps performance. Character expressions—like Daisy’s competitive glare—radiate personality, though costume variety could expand.

Multiplayer Mayhem

Online Knockout Tour epitomizes chaos theory. Seamless matchmaking and GameChat integration amplify rivalries—nothing beats taunting friends during Blue Shell strikes. Frame rates hold steady across modes, proving Switch 2’s technical prowess.