New Mario Kart World Update weakens COM and prioritizes lap-based courses

Nintendo has issued an update for the Mario Kart World game for the recently released Switch 2. Version 1.2.0 is the fourth release for the game, which launched on June 5th 2025.

The change log for Version 1.2.0 states that the COM characters have been made weaker in all game modes aside from Battle. This could make it easier for players to gain three stars on each Grand Prix and Knockout Tour. Nintendo also appears to have listened to customer feedback, with lap-type courses now appearing more frequently as options when choosing your next course in “VS Race” and wireless races.

There are also a few changes for items. The chance of a player getting a Triple Dash Mushroom when at the back of the pack is now lower, unless in Frantic mode. The Boomerang’s homing is weaker, and the ? Block has been prioritized in the order of items when not in Frantic mode. For those who enjoy Free Roam mode, the number of collected P Switches, ? Panels, and Peach Medallions on the map will now change color when a player has got them all. There is also a wide range of bug fixes. The complete release notes can be found on Nintendo’s support page.

You can update Mario Kart World to software version 1.2.0 by connecting your Nintendo Switch 2 to the internet. Once you have done this, select the game from the home menu, press the + or – button on your controller and then select Software Update > Over the Internet. If you want to buy the game, it is currently available for $79 at Amazon.