How to Free Roam in Mario Kart World

By Daniel Hidalgo | 2025-06-10 08:22:58
Mario Kart World takes the high-speed chaos of kart racing and expands it into a vast open-world adventure. Players can compete in intense Grand Prix events or explore the expansive map at their own pace in Free Roam Mode. However, accessing this mode isn’t immediately obvious. Whether you want to cruise solo or with friends, this guide will explain how to free roam in Mario Kart World and make the most of your open-world experience.

How to Free Roam in Single Player Mode


Exploring Mario Kart World’s open map alone is simple, with two easy methods to get started:

1. Instant Free Roam from the Main Menu


  • While on the main menu, press the + button on your Nintendo Switch 2 controller.
  • This instantly transitions you into free roam, taking control of Mario (or the last character you played as) from the dynamic menu background.

2. Selecting a Specific Location or Character


  • From the main menu, navigate to the Map icon (a small map with a pin) located near the stickers and manual options.
  • Here, you can:
    • Choose a different character by selecting them and pressing A.
    • Pick a specific track or landmark to spawn directly at that location as Mario.

This method is perfect if you want to explore a certain area or try out a new racer.

How to Free Roam with Friends (Multiplayer Guide)


Want to cruise the open world with friends? Here’s how to set up a multiplayer free roam session:


  • Go to the Online Menu – From the main menu, select Online.
  • Choose the Friends Option – Under game modes, pick Friends.
  • Create or Join a Room

    • Join a Friend’s Room: If a friend has already set up a lobby, select their room to enter.
    • Create Your Own Room: Click "Create a Room" at the top of the screen.
  • Select Your Character & Kart – Customize your racer before spawning into the open world.
  • Explore Together – Once in, you’ll appear at a random location. Use the map (press Y) to fast-travel to different tracks.
  • Starting Races from Free Roam


    • The room host can initiate a race anytime, making free roam a fun lobby-style waiting area while friends join.

    What Can You Do in Free Roam Mode?


    While free roam isn’t as structured as races, there are still plenty of activities:


    Collect Food Power-Ups – Drive around to grab food items that unlock new character outfits (also obtainable in races).
    Complete P-Switch Challenges – Find hidden P-Switches to trigger short time trials and earn rewards.
    Discover Secrets – The open world likely hides easter eggs and hidden paths—keep exploring to uncover them!

    Final Tips for Mario Kart World Free Roam


    • Use fast travel (via the map) to quickly move between tracks.
    • Experiment with different characters to see how they handle in open-world driving.
    • Play with friends to make exploration more entertaining while waiting for races.


    Whether you're looking to relax and explore or prepare for your next big race, free roam mode offers a fresh way to enjoy Mario Kart World’s vibrant open world.

    Platform(s): Nintendo Switch 2
    Genre(s): Kart racing
    Developer(s): Nintendo
    Publisher(s): Nintendo
    Mode: Single-player, multiplayer
    Age rating (PEGI): +3
    Video preview



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