Understanding mario Kart 8 Deluxe gets a surprise update but you’ll need a Switch 2 to enjoy this chaotic new feature
Nintendo has announced a surprising update for its classic-bordering-on-retro Mario Kart 8 Deluxe game, but you’ll need the Switch 2 games console to access it.
The most notable change in Version 4.0.0 forms the support for a split screen mode for up to eight players. The feature is available via the console’s built-in display and in docked mode. Naturally, you’ll need enough controllers to satisfy everyone, but it’s a cracking upgrade for a game that first launched on the Wii U in 2014 and carried over onto the Switch in Deluxe form as a launch title in 2017.
It’s a shame this update isn’t available for owners of the original Switch (who are stuck with bog standard 1-4 player we’ve been rocking since the early data of MK), especially given Switch 2 owners have the lovely new Mario Kart World Tour to enjoy. However, the Switch 2’s additional power and resolution have won the day here.
“With one Nintendo Switch 2 system, and enough controllers, you can now race in split-screen with up to eight people,” Nintendo says. “It’s great for when you’ve got a big group together and want to play some Mario Kart.”
Nintendo has also added CameraPlay support for 2-4 player multiplayer local and online modes, improved the resolution on Switch 2, and shortened load times on the next-gen consoles. Original Switch owners are thrown a few bones with speed increases and a new 96 Races option enabling players to engage in a single GP featuring all 96 races in VS mode.
