It might not seem like it at first, but Mario Kart World is a game much deeper than it appears in terms of content. One of the most iconic yet hidden features is Mirror Mode—true to tradition, it’s not available by default and requires a series of steps to unlock.
Unlock Mirror Mode in Mario Kart World
Unlike the Special Cup, unlocking Mirror Mode involves more than just racing a couple of times. Here’s what you need to do:
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Complete all seven standard Grand Prix Cups at 150cc to unlock the Special Cup, which is marked by a heart icon.
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Finish the Special Cup twice at 150cc—you don’t need to win, just complete it.
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Complete all eight Knockout Tour rallies at 150cc.
You don’t need to place first—just ensure there’s a check mark or trophy next to each. -
Collect the following in Free Roam mode:
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10 P-Switch Challenges
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10 Hidden Panels
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10 Peach Medallions
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Once these tasks are complete, replay the Special Cup at 150cc. After the credits, a special cutscene will confirm that Mirror Mode has been unlocked. From now on, you’ll see “Mirror” as a new difficulty option in Grand Prix and Knockout Tour modes.
What Is Mirror Mode?
Mirror Mode in Mario Kart World flips the layout of every track—left becomes right, and vice versa—offering a disorienting twist that makes even the most familiar circuits feel new again. It’s a perfect mode for players looking to challenge themselves further.
After unlocking Mirror Mode, you can also activate it in Free Roam. Head to Peach’s Stadium, climb up to the roof, and drive through the stained-glass window to enter a mirrored version of the open world, which lasts until you return to the main menu.
And that’s everything you need to know to unlock Mirror Mode in Mario Kart World. It’s an easy process, which might make some wonder why it wasn’t available from the start—but surely there was a reason behind that choice.
