Mario Kart World Direct introduces new characters, tracks, and a debated rewind feature

After debuting during the April 2nd Nintendo Direct, gamers already knew essential facts about Mario Kart World. The Treehouse presentations that followed showed more of the Switch 2 game. Still, Nintendo held some secrets for the just-completed Mario Kart World Direct. Along with new characters, tracks, and modes, a rewind feature perhaps drew the most gasps.

Facing backlash over its $80 price, Nintendo was likely anxious to show why the game is the most complete Mario Kart experience yet. The kart racer introduces open-world and off-road gameplay. In Grand Prix mode, players can drive through off-track sections connecting four courses. The Mario Kart World Direct emphasized that the game offers a large map, and online gamers could meet up with friends depicted by icons.

Some new destinations featured during the Nintendo Direct include Salty Salty Speedway, a spooky Boo Cinema, and Starview Peak. Nintendo hinted that completing all Grand Prix courses would unlock the fan-favorite Rainbow Road. Day and night races will also be an option in Mario Kart World.

The Nintendo presentation showed off fresh characters, headlined by Goomba, Spike, and Cow. Viewers saw detailed character models for old and new racers, including Mario and Peach, and some ornate costumes.

During races, the characters can employ new items like a hammer to attack or block off the competition. Tricks such as a charge jump will take practice but can be used to leap over opponents, dodge attacks, or ride walls. Taking a cue from Forza Horizon, racers can rely on a rewind feature when disaster strikes. However, the somewhat controversial ability is only an option in solo and free-roam modes.

Not surprisingly, the Mario Kart World Direct was again spammed with "Drop the Price" comments. Nevertheless, Switch 2 pre-orders for the base console and Mario Kart World Bundle continue to sell out.