Master Unlock Strategy for Mario Kart World

A garage door slowly lifts to reveal newly unlocked karts and characters from Mario Kart World, sparkling coin particles floating in the air like treasure confetti.

I have setup my new switch 2 (read Switch 2 First Impressions or Setting up the Switch 2) and am deep into Mario Kart World. Here's all you need to know to master this new classic:

Master Unlock Strategy for Mario Kart World

Unlock characters in any CC class—50cc, 100cc, or 150cc. Finish a Grand Prix Cup in the top three to earn your prize.

Which Cups Unlock Who

Cup Character
Mushroom Cup Donkey Kong
Flower Cup Daisy
Star Cup Rosalina
Shell Cup Lakitu
Banana Cup Birdo
Leaf Cup King Boo
Lightning Cup Bowser Jr.

Bonus Unlocks: Get hit by Kamek’s item on certain tracks to unlock characters like Spike, Swoop, or Peepa.

Unlocking Karts with Coins

Every 100 coins = one random kart, bike, or ATV. There are 40 total vehicles to unlock.

Modes That Pay Off

  • Grand Prix (up to 20 coins per race)
  • Free Roam (look for big coin clusters)
  • Online Races
  • Knockout Tours

Coin Farming Tips

  • Follow coin-trailing cars to rack up fast
  • Target big piles in Free Roam
  • Consistency matters—max coins per race

Starter vs. Late-Game Rides

  • Starter Karts: Standard Kart, Zoom Buggy, Baby Blooper
  • Unlockable Faves: B Dasher, Cloud 9, Pipe Frame
  • Mid-tier rides balance speed, handling, and drift

Building Your Dream Setup

  • Speed Demons: Top-end speed is king
  • Drift Masters: Max out drift & acceleration
  • Balanced Racers: Great for any style

Ready to unlock every face and vehicle? Jump into 150cc, farm those coins, and build your dream garage!

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