Switch 2: How to Unlock Characters in Mario Kart World?

You just started playing Mario Kart World and want to expand your roster of racers to fully enjoy the tracks? Good news — the game features a progressive unlock system that lets you get both classic series stars and some unexpected characters. Here’s a guide to help you unlock them and enhance your gaming experience.

Right from the start, you have access to a selection of iconic characters playable without conditions. Among them are Mario, Luigi, Peach, Yoshi, Toad, Toadette, Bowser, Koopa Troopa, Wario, Waluigi, baby versions (Baby Mario, Baby Luigi, Baby Peach, Baby Daisy, Baby Rosalina), Pauline, Shy Guy, and Donkey Kong — though the latter requires you to finish your first cup to unlock.

Once you’ve covered the basics, the game encourages you to progress through Grand Prix mode to unlock the rest of the roster. Each cup you win grants you a new racer. For example, completing the Mushroom Cup unlocks Donkey Kong. Daisy becomes available after finishing the Flower Cup, and Rosalina unlocks when you win the Star Cup. Every victory brings you closer to a new driver.

And that’s not all. Other classic characters like Lakitu, Birdo, King Boo, and Bowser Jr. are tied to specific cups — Shell Cup, Banana Cup, Leaf Cup, or Lightning Cup, for instance. Completing challenges on these tracks rewards you with new additions to your driver lineup, adding a real sense of progression to the game.

Besides the main characters, Mario Kart World introduces many secondary creatures from the Nintendo universe. Some, like Cheep Cheep, Dry Bones, Goomba, Monty Mole, and Piranha Plant, are available early on. While not all are playable from the start, their presence adds an original and humorous touch to your races.

To unlock rarer characters, the game includes a special system called the "Kamek Transformation Power." This mechanic lets you unlock unusual racers like Cataquack, Chargin’ Chuck, Coin Coffer, Pianta, Swoop, Dolphin, or Fish Bone. You’ll need to explore various game features and complete certain objectives to add them to your team.