As a flagship launch title for Nintendo's next-gen console, the Nintendo Switch 2, Mario Kart World (マリオカートワールド) immediately grabbed massive attention. Players flocked to the game, eager to tackle its brand-new tracks and see what surprising gameplay Nintendo had cooked up this time.
But just days after release, the player community has already unearthed a series of mind-blowing "god-tier shortcuts." We're talking walls and even lampposts becoming viable routes, leaving many players exclaiming, "Is this even Mario Kart anymore?!" The discovery has sparked a massive buzz across social media.
X user Naruki (@narrruking) shared a viral video showcasing the insane, "ghost-god" techniques of the current global fastest time trial player. In the clip, characters aren't just wall-climbing and parkouring; they're practically gliding through the air.
These techniques have left netizens stunned, with comments like: "Is that even a shortcut anymore?", "They're practically flying!", and "This isn't the Mario Kart I know!" Clearly, many players are taken aback by what Mario Kart World is serving up.
Some players described it as: "Like the 3D racing games I used to fantasize about while looking out the car window as a kid, now brought to life." Another chimed in, "These moves make me feel like it's Captain Levi from 'Attack on Titan' using his ODM gear!"
What's even wilder, some players pointed out, is that "these maneuvers aren't glitches at all; the game actually allows you to drive on walls. The development team clearly anticipated this!" Others remarked that with this design, it seems tracks are practically optional – if you've got the skill, you can just fly and warp your way to victory.
While many seasoned players are hyped about the open-ended techniques, a significant number are feeling frustrated. Numerous netizens confessed, "Seeing this kind of gameplay completely kills my motivation; it's just not a game for casual players like me." Others added, "Why does a racing game require 'pre-studying' just to play? The pressure is immense."
This level of play has also sparked complaints, with some arguing: "These shortcuts are practically mandatory now; you can't win on regular routes," and "It's a competition of who remembers more fancy moves, not actual racing skill." One player even described it as: "First-time players will get absolutely steamrolled by these god-tier shortcuts; it'll make you want to cry."
Despite the criticism about the rising skill ceiling, some players point out that these high-level techniques might not be practical in regular online matches. One user offered reassurance: "Don't despair too much; this kind of play often leads to accidents in online races. When everyone's chaotic, it's harder to pull off."
Another netizen added: "These shortcuts might be crucial in Time Attack (TA) mode, but in a chaotic multiplayer free-for-all, sticking to the regular routes is probably safer." A different player also warned: "Aerial control is extremely skill-intensive; it's not easy for average players to consistently replicate."
Addressing the controversy, the original video's uploader, Naruki, also stated that they are a beginner themselves but have managed to pull off some techniques after practice. They emphasized: "Beyond just racing, this game also has modes where you can enjoy the characters and world. It's super fun for newcomers too! I hope everyone isn't scared off – I truly recommend buying it!"
Mario Kart World is still in its early release phase, and the official team has yet to comment on whether these techniques will impact game balance. Whether this gameplay pushes boundaries or simply widens the gap between new and veteran players, only time will tell.
via： togetter