Beyond tracks, Mario Kart World’s Free Roam mode transforms the map into a sandbox. Drive up mountains, discover Easter eggs (e.g., Yoshi’s waterfall cave), or use the gyro-controlled camera for group photos. Nintendo employed drone photogrammetry to build realistic terrain, with Switch 2’s tensor cores upscaling textures to 4K. Haptic feedback rumbles differently on grass vs. ice, and local co-op lets 4 players explore via split-screen. “Draw distances stretch 2 miles,” boasts Art Director Takashi Tezuka. “Spot races from Mount Wario!”
Free Roam Unleashed: Photogrammetry Captures Nintendo’s Biggest Playground
By Christian Leconte
- June 3, 2025
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Hit top speed in Mario Kart World, the boldest evolution of the franchise yet.
Race across a vast, seamlessly connected world where iconic tracks flow into one another without loading screens. Up to 24 players can compete in high-speed chaos, pushing the limits of competitive karting. Dominate the all-new Knockout Tour mode — a relentless, multi-track gauntlet where only the fastest survive. Miss a checkpoint or fall behind the pack, and you’re out.
Prefer to explore at your own pace? In Free Roam mode, leave the track behind and drive anywhere you want. Discover hidden areas, snap photos at scenic spots, and cruise with friends across a living, breathing Mario Kart playground.