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Mario Kart World

All Game Modes Explained

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Game Modes
This is a complete list of all the playable game modes in Mario Kart World. Explore all the new and returning game modes the game has to offer in this comprehensive guide.

All New Mario Kart World Game Modes

Knockout Tour

In Knockout Tour, players compete against each other in one long race that encompasses multiple tracks. Each player must reach a certain placement before each checkpoint; failure to do so results in elimination.

As more players are eliminated throughout the race and the stakes get higher, making the cut becomes more difficult. The Kart that remains will be declared the winner.
Knockout Tour Guide and How to Win

All Returning Mario Kart World Game Modes

Grand Prix

Grand Prix

In Grand Prix, the core Mario Kart experience, players race against each other on four tracks, known as cups. Players earn points based on their placement after finishing a track. The player with the most points after completing all four tracks is declared the winner.

In Grand Prix mode, players race across the world map to reach the next track, adding an extra layer of challenge.

Grand Prix Guide and How to Win

Cups Available

Mushroom Cup Flower Cup
Star Cup Shell Cup
Banana Cup Leaf Cup
Lightning Cup Lightning Cup -

The Mushroom, Flower, Star, Shell, and Banana cups will be available at launch, and the Leaf and Lightning cups may be added at launch or post-launch. Each cup contains four courses that participants must complete.

VS Race

VS Race

In VS Mode, players can go head to head with other players in private lobbies. This mode is perfect for playing with friends, with the ruleset being modifiable, allowing players tailor the experience to their liking.

In VS Race, players have the freedom to choose routes that aren't included in the Grand Prix or Knockout Tour.
VS Race Guide

Time Trials

Time Trials

Players can choose to play the Time Trial game mode, free from the pressures of competing against others. In this mode, players are timed based on how quickly they finish the track and their lap times.

As in Mario Kart 8 and other previous titles, players are given three mushrooms, which are the only items they can use on the track. They can also pick up coins as usual.

Time trials are great for newcomers and expert players alike. This mode allows players to explore and master the tracks while providing an accurate measure of improvement based on lap and clear times.

Time Trial Guide

Ghost Mode

Ghost Mode

Players with access to the game's online component can download Ghost data from racers anywhere in the world and compete against it. Ghosts are intangible, digitized recordings of a player's previous race that accompany you on the track.

Battling ghosts is a great way to see each track from a fresh perspective. Players may have different approaches and racing styles, which gives you the option to emulate them.

Battle Mode

In Battle Mode, players confront each other directly to achieve the mode's win condition. There are different types of Battle Mode, two of which are available at launch.
Battle Mode

Balloon Battle

Balloon Battle

In Balloon Battle, players are given a set number of balloons and must pop their opponents' balloons to win. Players can pick up items scattered across the map and use them to pop their opponents' balloons. Whoever runs out of balloons is eliminated.
Balloon Battle Guide and How to Win

Coin Runners

Coin Runners
Players participating in the Coin Runners mode will have to collect as many coins as possible within the given time limit. The player with the most coins wins. Items are still enabled, which can be utilized to hinder your opponents.
Coin Runners Guide and How to Win

Free Roam

Free Roam

Players can explore the open world freely in Free Roam Mode. Players are free to drive around the map, and can go wherever they like. This mode also provides hidden secrets and missions that can be found by exploring.

Free Roam Mode

P-Switch Missions

Hidden Missions

Players can start secret missions by looking for blue P icons hidden on the map. Completing these missions allows players to hone their skills outside of races.
All 394 P Switch Locations

Hidden Secrets

Hidden Secrets
There are hidden Peach medallions, Question Panels, and other secrets on the world map. Keep an eye out for them if you want to find them all!
List of Unlockables

Mario Kart World Related Guides

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Recommended Guides

Mario Kart World Best Character Tier List Best Character Tier List Best Kart Tier List Best Kart Tier List
Best Combos Best Combo Setup Mario Kart World Item Tier List Best Item Tier List

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