Today, we received an in-depth look at the gameplay of Mario Kart World for the Switch 2 during the Nintendo Treehouse stream. Aside from showcasing new tracks and some tricks that could easily belong in a Tony Hawk game, it was revealed that the feather item is making a return for actual racing after 33 years.
Originally introduced in the Super Mario Kart on SNES back in 1992, the feather allowed players to perform a spin jump. Its next appearance came with the Deluxe edition of Mario Kart 8 on the Switch, where it was limited to Battle Mode. In that version, it enabled players to jump and snatch balloons from other racers, serving similarly to a trick jump by providing a quick speed boost and increased height.
In Mario Kart World, the feather retains functionality akin to its role in 8 Deluxe, now usable in real races once again. In the footage from the Treehouse stream, a player attempts to use the feather to counter an incoming blue shell. Although the attempt was poorly timed, it does suggest that the feather has the potential to deflect this notorious item.
The super horn also remains part of the item lineup, indicating that players will have various strategies to handle the blue shell menace this time. The blue shell has historically been a significant point of contention among Mario Kart fans, so it’s refreshing to see more countermeasures in place.
More information will be revealed during the Mario Kart World Direct event scheduled for later in April. The game is expected to launch along with the Switch 2 on June 5.
Explore the complete list of upcoming Switch 2 titles.