#open world

HoYoverse, the developer behind the global sensation Genshin Impact, is reportedly working on a new open-world game codenamed "Project Shanghai." Drawing inspiration from Western titles like Grand Theft Auto, this project is said to be more ambitious than any of HoYoverse's previous endeavors. Nintendo is shifting gears in a big way with Mario Kart World, the next evolution in its iconic kart racing franchise. Officially revealed during the highly anticipated Switch 2 Direct event, Mario Kart World is set to launch exclusively alongside the new Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5, 2025. The game is shaping up to be the most ambitious entry in the series yet, featuring an expansive open world, dynamic environments, and the largest driver roster in Mario Kart history. Building on the runaway success of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe—which sold over 67 million copies worldwide—Mario Kart World reinvents the franchise formula by introducing brand-new vehicles, characters, costumes, and items. But the real game-changer is the open world design. According to Nintendo, Mario Kart World will feature 24 playable characters, the most ever in a single Mario Kart game. With its expansive world, multiplayer-focused modes, and Switch 2 exclusivity, Mario Kart World could mark a whole new era for the franchise—and for kart racers in general. Read more in our articles including "Windbound free for a limited time at Epic Games Store" and "HoYoverse's Ambitious New Project 'Shanghai' Aims to Surpass Genshin Impact with GTA-Inspired Open World".