Mario Kart World has delivered yet another nostalgic surprise for longtime Nintendo fans — a hidden method to access Mirror Mode in Free Roam that pays homage to one of the most iconic mechanics from *Super Mario 64*. By revisiting Princess Peach’s Castle and interacting with it in a very specific way, players can warp into a mirrored version of the entire open world. It's a clever callback to the painting entrances that defined Mario’s 3D debut, and it adds a fresh layer of exploration to Mario Kart World’s expansive environment.
To perform this trick, you must first have unlocked Mirror Mode in Grand Prix and Knockout Tour by completing all cups on 150cc and collecting several P-Switches, Peach Medallions, and Question Panels throughout the game world. Without Mirror Mode unlocked, this secret won’t activate — so be sure your progress is up to speed before attempting it.
How to Access Mirror Mode in Free Roam
- Launch Free Roam and fast travel to the central Princess Stadium course using the Y button on your controller.
- Once there, drive off the road as you spiral upward, keeping Princess Peach’s Castle on your right.
- Try to land on the large red roof below and navigate toward the castle’s main turret.
- Position yourself directly in front of the grand stained glass window featuring Princess Peach — and prepare for some classic Mario-style magic.
- Drive straight through the window and watch as the screen ripples like a painting from *Super Mario 64*, transporting you into a fully mirrored version of the Mario Kart World map.
This warped world mirrors every detail — including terrain, textures, and even your map layout — flipping them to offer a fresh visual twist on familiar locations. It’s an Easter egg that feels both rewarding and respectful of Nintendo’s rich history.
Some nice Mirror Mode Easter egg haha pic.twitter.com/7q5GIqZ91l
— Ninjinaut (@Ninjinaut) June 7, 2025
Interestingly, while this discovery made waves among the fanbase, other news surrounding the game stirred different kinds of conversations. Longtime Mario creator Shigeru Miyamoto was notably absent from the credits, a detail some players found curious but not entirely unexpected. Meanwhile, in Japan, a local farmer praised the game’s realistic depiction of the beloved Cow character — particularly its humorous and accurate portrayal of a mucky behind.
For those looking to dive deeper into the secrets of *Mario Kart World*, our comprehensive guide covers everything from unlocking hidden characters to understanding how Kamek Unlocks work — which are essential for unlocking NPC Drivers. We’ve also mapped out every food location across the open world, helping you collect all outfits and costumes permanently.
