Mario Kart World on Switch 2: 5 Tips to Get Ahead and Leave Everyone Behind

Mario Kart World is landing on Nintendo Switch 2, and let’s be honest — it’s a real game-changer: open world, new modes like Knockout and Off-Road, but at its core, the fundamentals are still the same. If you want to shine right from the start (or just avoid finishing 12th in shame), here are 5 must-know tips to kick off your Mario Kart World journey the right way.

1. Turbo Start — It’s the Basics

If you don’t want to be stuck at the back while everyone else takes off, you’ve got to nail the turbo start. Press the accelerator right after the second beep and you’ll blast off with an instant boost. Too early? Your kart stalls. Too late? You’ve missed the train. It’s a simple move, but it changes the game from the very first second.

2. Drifting Is Your Best Friend

Press ZR when turning to start drifting. The longer you hold the drift, the bigger the boost you get on exit (mini, super, or ultra mini-turbo). This is the core mechanic to master if you want to dominate tight and technical tracks. Learn to control your stick movement and corners will be your playground.

3. Shortcuts and Track Secrets = Easy Wins

Every track in Mario Kart hides little secrets — hidden boost pads, ramps to bonus areas, and more. With Mario Kart World’s open-world structure, this is even more true. Explore, test, remember. Taking the right shortcut at the right time can make all the difference.

4. Use Your Items Wisely

Items aren’t just for throwing everything you’ve got. A green shell or banana used for defense can be more useful than a red shell for attack. Save a mushroom to dodge a blue shell or escape a trap. And whatever you do, don’t blow all your items at once without thinking. That’s where real strategy comes in.

5. Test the Best Character/Kart Combos

Every character, kart, wheel, or glider affects your stats — speed, handling, acceleration… it all matters. In Mario Kart World, you’ve also got Dash Foods and outfits to customize your style even more. Take the time to try different combos until you find the one that fits you best.