Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Review

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is one of our top 5 favorite games. We’ve played this game for hours and hours. It’s so much fun! Here is my review for the game.

Why Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe for the Nintendo Switch is the definitive version of the popular kart racing franchise. It refines everything fans loved about Mario Kart 8 on the Wii U and adds new features, making it a must-have title for casual and competitive players alike.

The gameplay is fast, fluid, and packed with variety. With anti-gravity tracks, gliders, underwater sections, and classic tight controls, each race is full of surprises. The Deluxe edition includes all previously released DLC content and introduces new characters like Inkling Girl and Boy from Splatoon, as well as returning favorites like King Boo, Dry Bones, and Bowser Jr.

The item balance has been tweaked, with new options like the Boo item (which steals items) and Feather (in Battle mode). The double item slots also make a comeback, adding more strategic depth to every lap.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe offers multiple modes:

• Grand Prix – Classic circuit racing with multiple difficulty levels.
• Battle Mode – Revamped with unique arenas and multiple game types like Balloon Battle, Shine Thief, and Renegade Roundup.
• Online Play – Smooth matchmaking and online racing/battles for up to 12 players.
• Local Multiplayer – Up to 4 players split-screen or 8 via wireless play.
• Time Trials – Compete for the fastest lap against ghosts or friends.

The inclusion of Smart Steering and auto-acceleration makes it more accessible for younger or new players.

The game runs at 60 FPS in both docked and handheld modes, with crisp HD visuals and vibrant tracks. The soundtrack is lively and varied, ranging from jazzy remixes of classics to energetic new compositions.

How We Test Games

For testing games we use a Nintendo Switch firmware version 2H. Hardware includes Joy-con and Pro controller on a large screen TV. Tests are done with up to 5 players. We take turns playing and evaluating games.

Whenever possible we play multiple players. We also use a Nintendo 2DS, DS XL, and for PC games we use a Ryzen 7 1700x CPU, AMD RX580, running on Win 10. This game is up to 4-players on one Nintendo Switch.

Pros

All DLC from Mario Kart 8 included.

Revamped and fun Battle Mode.

Great character and track variety.

Accessible for all skill levels.

Cons

No new original tracks compared to Mario Kart 8.

Some fans may want deeper single-player content.

Summary

Overall, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is not just a port—it’s the ultimate version of the game. With polished mechanics, gorgeous tracks, tons of content, and excellent local and online play, it continues to be one of the best multiplayer experiences on the Switch.

Whether you’re racing solo, with friends, or online, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a wild ride that continues to shine.