A recent update for Mario Kart World
on the Nintendo Switch 2 has introduced some interesting changes. One undocumented modification, in particular, appears to be significantly affecting the competitive racing scene.
While the version 1.2.0 patch notes detailed reductions in CPU difficulty across most modes, including single races, the boosted speed gained after performing tricks mid-air was not mentioned. Gamers quickly observed this change upon downloading the update, with many racers crushing their previous best times in Time Trials thanks to the updated acceleration mechanics.
A recently shared video
from RookieMK, showcasing a race against their previous Time Trial ghost, emphasizes the impact of this adjustment.
While the expansive tracks and Knockout Mode get attention for their unique elements, the core gameplay of Mario Kart World, exclusive to the Switch 2, features gameplay inspired by games such as *Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater*. Racers now have the ability to perform wall-runs, grind on rails, and gain speed by glancing off objects in mid-air.
Players with skilled techniques are obtaining an advantage over others and now have the ability to use a “secret stash of mushrooms”. This newest update increases speed following ramp jumps and other air tricks. “You gain significant momentum,” stated YouTuber svcTyler in
a recent video.
“The momentum gained trivializes all currently existing world records.”
The Mario Kart World records website demonstrates this point.
Only two world records were
posted on July 29
. Today, numerous records have been set, and the unlisted change has provided vitality for the speedrunning community. This will continue until players have maxed-out improvements and have to look for marginal increases.
.