Mario Kart’s Free Roam Feature Shines in Epic Speedrun

Mario Kart World is not just a thrilling racing experience; it also doubles as an exhilarating 3D platformer. This was highlighted during a recent speedrun showcase at a charity event, where the game’s intricate movement mechanics were put to the test.

The event, which brings together speedrunners to raise funds for a good cause, featured some of the most anticipated titles of 2025, including Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 and Hollow Knight: Silksong. Mario Kart World made its appearance with a unique run focused on the game’s open-world Free Roam mode.

Instead of racing to the finish line, speedrunner Helix tackled a challenge called “All ? Panels.” This category requires players to activate every question mark block in Free Roam mode, a feat that can be accomplished in under 30 minutes with smart routing and a deep understanding of the game’s movement techniques.

The run is a spectacle, showcasing a blend of grinds, wallrides, and jumps, along with more specialized maneuvers like “object boosting,” which lets players gain speed by performing tricks near objects like telephone poles. The rewind feature plays a crucial role, allowing Helix to quickly backtrack and adjust routes after hitting a panel. A fun twist? If you warp to another part of the map while heading toward a ? Panel, you still get credit for it, even if you haven’t physically driven over it yet.

This run sheds new light on Mario Kart World’s often-criticized Free Roam mode. Initially viewed as an empty open world lacking activities, Helix transforms the map into a vibrant playground. The run reveals hidden areas and rooftops that seem unreachable, showcasing the game’s potential as a 3D platformer. It’s worth watching to see if you agree with this perspective.

The charity event wraps up on Sunday, Jan. 11, and you can catch the live action on a popular streaming platform, with past runs available for viewing later.