Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

 Switch
User Score
8.6

Generally favorable reviews- based on 2774 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2,427 out of 2774
  2. Mixed: 176 out of 2774
  3. Negative: 171 out of 2774
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  1. EFYevan
    Apr 28, 2017
    10
    The most complete Mario Kart game ever created! The #1 complaint people had about the Wii U version is that the battle mode was lacking. Now with that fixed, we can all confidently agree that this game is a 10/10. Masterpiece!
  2. HarryHood
    Apr 29, 2017
    10
    Didn't own a Wii U, so this is my first time playing full-screen, HD, online MarioKart...All I can say is "WOW!". Brings back the feeling of playing with friends (on a 32" CRT, usually on the ground) back on 64. The game is locked at 60fps and looks absolutely stunning. The art direction is the best I've seen in this series, and the graphics performance and effects are incredible for aDidn't own a Wii U, so this is my first time playing full-screen, HD, online MarioKart...All I can say is "WOW!". Brings back the feeling of playing with friends (on a 32" CRT, usually on the ground) back on 64. The game is locked at 60fps and looks absolutely stunning. The art direction is the best I've seen in this series, and the graphics performance and effects are incredible for a console that is basically a tablet with a fan in it! The amount of content is staggering, and there are quite a few unlocks, considering all characters and tracks are available right from the start. This is one of those games that will be on my Switch until the day it dies.

    My only complaints are minor and can be fixed with updates: The amount of overall items, for better or worse, is VERY high in online mode. This can lead to some moments where you're not even moving for long stretches of the race, as you're being pummeled with items. My other issue is that you can't group join/party up with your friends. You can kinda work around it by using the "join" button, but it doesn't work well it it's current form (especially compared to other high-polish online games like Rocket League and Overwatch etc) and I think they should look to update it if they're going to begin charging for online services this fall.

    All-in-all, I give it a 9.5/10, wonderful game with a long future that's easily worth the asking price. The fact that you can take this game with you anywhere is simply proof we're living in the future!    … Expand
  3. LuccaSSC
    Jul 13, 2017
    10
    With 42 characters, 12 cups, 5 battle modes, time trials, customizable karts, great online servers and graphics, precise controls and the option of portability, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is probably the best racing game ever made.
  4. MIDP
    May 14, 2017
    10
    I own the Wii U version with all the DLC.
    This one is objectively better and reason enough to get a Switch in my opinion because you can play it on the go.
    It really is so much fun. The Battle Mode along with most things except car parts being unlocked from the get-go is great. I also love that you can have 2 items at once now. I really wish they would add more DLC however. There are    I own the Wii U version with all the DLC.
    This one is objectively better and reason enough to get a Switch in my opinion because you can play it on the go.
    It really is so much fun. The Battle Mode along with most things except car parts being unlocked from the get-go is great.
    I also love that you can have 2 items at once now.

    I really wish they would add more DLC however. There are so many ol school stages I miss like the DK stage from Double Dash, one of the Bowser Castles from both 3DS(SNES) and DS. The 3DS Mii Sports/Pilot Wings stages.
    I mean, you could easily add another 16 awesome stages, and I'd happily pay another 40 bucks for them.
    Please Nintendo, give us 4 stage packs for 10 bucks each.
    You don't even need to make a new MK in the future, just keep adding stages to this one, it's really that awesome!    … Expand
  5. FreedomFighters
    Mar 4, 2018
    10
    This review will not be a critical assessment of "Mario Kart 8" as a whole. I've already written a review for the Wii U version of the game, which you can read if you head over to my profile. Rather, this review will be discussing how the Nintendo Switch port of "Mario Kart 8," also known as "Mario Kart 8 Deluxe," stacks up against the Wii U version. Is it worth it? Yes, absolutely.This review will not be a critical assessment of "Mario Kart 8" as a whole. I've already written a review for the Wii U version of the game, which you can read if you head over to my profile. Rather, this review will be discussing how the Nintendo Switch port of "Mario Kart 8," also known as "Mario Kart 8 Deluxe," stacks up against the Wii U version. Is it worth it? Yes, absolutely.
    "Mario Kart 8 Deluxe" features a few solid differences from the Wii U version, notably 1080p graphics, the ability to hold two items, brand new characters, a highly-revamped (and much needed) battle mode, new features to help beginners out, and a lot more! Nintendo really took things into account with this one, working to make sure it wasn't just a lazy "port" of the game, and their effort shows!
    So, should you buy it? Well, if you don't already own the Wii U version, buy this new "Deluxe" edition NOW!!!!! However, if you own the Wii U version, it depends on how the revamps to Battle Mode (along with the new characters) sound to you. Like 'em? Go get it! Not interested? Just stick to the Wii U version. Regardless of your system of choice, "Mario Kart 8 Deluxe" is an absolutely amazing game and everyone should have it in their collection, regardless of whether they own a Switch or a Wii U.
    Final rating: 10 out of 10 "Fantastic"    … Expand
  6. h00ligan
    Sep 30, 2017
    10
    The best kart to date. What else is there to say? Yah it’s smirky a port but it looks great and has proper battle mode. It runs smoothly and quickly. If you love kart this is the definitive edition.
  7. amstans
    May 3, 2017
    10
    This time around they made the game truly addictive and replayable. If you were to compare it briefly to the wiiU version to say it's worth buying it again I would say brighter and not fuzzy. What a difference between the two. I used to think the wiiU version was stunning and now it's painful to look at. Beyond that there are multiple battle modes, new players, new items etc.
    They finally    This time around they made the game truly addictive and replayable. If you were to compare it briefly to the wiiU version to say it's worth buying it again I would say brighter and not fuzzy. What a difference between the two. I used to think the wiiU version was stunning and now it's painful to look at. Beyond that there are multiple battle modes, new players, new items etc.
    They finally nailed it Love this game so much. See you online!    … Expand
  8. Owb101
    Jul 21, 2017
    10
    The best Mario Kart ever, and the best party racer ever. The only way it could be improved is if Nintendo were to release more DLC tracks. It doesn't get better than this. Great characters, courses and an amazing game engine.
  9. JJTX
    Mar 24, 2019
    10
    An absolutely essential purchase for all Nintendo Switch owners. The best game in the series by far, and among the best multiplayer games ever released. (I still wish they'd get rid of the spiny shell, though.)
  10. claytastic
    Jul 10, 2017
    10
    Most remastered games nowadays end up being half-assed attempts at making the original game look better without changing the game in any way in order to capture your nostalgia and take your money. Skyrim: Special Edition, Modern Warfare Remastered, BioShock: The Collection and the Dead Rising Trilogy are all perfect examples of this. Once again, Nintendo has had to come in and show everyMost remastered games nowadays end up being half-assed attempts at making the original game look better without changing the game in any way in order to capture your nostalgia and take your money. Skyrim: Special Edition, Modern Warfare Remastered, BioShock: The Collection and the Dead Rising Trilogy are all perfect examples of this. Once again, Nintendo has had to come in and show every one how something is done with this Switch port of the already amazing Mario Kart 8.
    I will concede, however, that in terms of graphics, the game only looks slightly better than the previous version, but it's not a problem since the game already looked great on the Wii U. That's not what makes this game spectacular, though. It's the fact that it's everything the original version was, and more.

    All of the DLC tracks and characters are included (something that has failed to make it's way to more recent remasters), and they even made new levels, which means that there's 48 tracks total, and it's not just one of those situations where more is worse because they're less varied. Each level is unique In its visual and level design, which really adds to the game's replayability.

    In addition to more maps and characters, they also added a new mode: battle mode. Actually, its a mode with a few different mini-modes. They take certain tracks and turn them into arenas so the players can battle it out. This is done in many different ways, collecting coins, popping balloons, throwing bombs, and my personal favorite, a cops and robbers gamemode where the cops chase the criminals around with piranha plants and criminals have to bust their friends out of jail when they get caught. it's not new since we've seen in previous games, but it's nice to see it return after a long hiatus, since it wasn't present in Mario Kart Wii, 7, or the original version of 8.

    To conclude, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is exactly how you do a remastered game. It fixes every problem that I had with the original version, and it changes enough to make it feel like a whole new game, without trampling the legacy of the original. This is the first time in a while where I'm able to say that this is the ultimate way to experience the game. I was going to give it a 9, but then I realized that I actually didn't have any problems with this game, minus the fact that there's 7 different versions of Rainbow Road (making it the Skyrim of Mario Kart), so it gets a well-deserved 10.    … Expand
  11. ll33ee
    Mar 14, 2022
    10
    Excelent game, must play. Best racing game on switch. Include all DLC. The Battle Mode is fixed, now you can select a battle arena.
  12. StefanGoedhart
    May 1, 2017
    10
    The best racing game yet with innovative game mechanics. It's amazing to play such a beautiful game on a handheld device. It's an incredible leap forward compared to Mario Kart 7 on the 3DS. It's also great that you aren't tied to the TV anymore which was the case with the Wii U version. 10/10
  13. Almogavar84
    Jul 15, 2017
    10
    Juego arcade ya visto en Wii U con cambios jugables apenas perceptibles a primera vista, jugabilidad enorme y que es una saga que aporta muchísima diversión en multijugador local u online, es un iMPRESCINDIBLE!!!
  14. TheGeekLantern
    May 8, 2017
    10
    Una experiencia inigualable. Si te quejas diciendo que este juego es solo un port de la versión de Wii U, hay dos cosas que debes saber:

    1- Esta versión mejora cada aspecto del juego además de incluir un Modo Batalla SUBLIME.
    2- La sola experiencia de poder disfrutar con amigos en cualquier lugar es algo que no vas a entender hasta que no lo vivas por tu cuenta.

    ULTRA RECOMENDADO!!!
  15. forevernes
    May 20, 2018
    10
    Uno de los mejores mario kart de todos los tiempos 10/10.....................
  16. Digibutter64
    Apr 10, 2018
    10
    The best Mario Kart by far. Bringing back the classic Battle Mode and fan-favourite characters Bowser Jr., King Boo, and Dry Bones makes Mario Kart 8 Deluxe an even better game than the Wii U original. The new Renegade Roundup battle mode is a lot of fun, and there are now proper battle courses (the new Lunar Colony is a highlight) rather than race tracks. Plus, Inkling Girl and InklingThe best Mario Kart by far. Bringing back the classic Battle Mode and fan-favourite characters Bowser Jr., King Boo, and Dry Bones makes Mario Kart 8 Deluxe an even better game than the Wii U original. The new Renegade Roundup battle mode is a lot of fun, and there are now proper battle courses (the new Lunar Colony is a highlight) rather than race tracks. Plus, Inkling Girl and Inkling Boy from Splatoon fit right in with the rest of the playable characters. With many playable characters and 48 race tracks, as well as a lot of kart customisation options, even if you own Mario Kart 8 on Wii U, every Switch owner should have Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.… Expand
  17. Kvr
    Apr 28, 2017
    10
    This is the best Mario Kart game to date! Superb courses, nice characters and super smooth game play with a stable 60 fps.
    Also for time-trial fanatics there is enough to do with a Nintendo ghost to beat in every level and courses that let ypu master them in every detail, This is a no-brain er for every Nintendo Switch owner.
  18. ali2005
    Jul 30, 2017
    10
    The definitive version of Mario Kart 8!Mario Kart 8 was one of the Best Mario Karts in history thanks to its stunning visuals,great gameplay,and easy to use controls,but most of the flaws in that game have been added in Deluxe!I am so glad to see a proper battle mode in this game and it sure is a lot of fun especially with multiplayer!Also,I am so glad to see Bowser Jr in thisThe definitive version of Mario Kart 8!Mario Kart 8 was one of the Best Mario Karts in history thanks to its stunning visuals,great gameplay,and easy to use controls,but most of the flaws in that game have been added in Deluxe!I am so glad to see a proper battle mode in this game and it sure is a lot of fun especially with multiplayer!Also,I am so glad to see Bowser Jr in this game.Although there are no new tracks,it includes all 48 tracks including the DLC which I didn't purchase on the Wii U version.And even for time trial fanatics,you can now do Time trials in 150 or 200cc,which is a neat addition.Other features like an ultra turbo boost,double items (a big plus for Double Dash fans),and much more!It even applies to beginners with Smart Steering and Auto-acceleration so in theory,you can race without pressing a single button!

    Overall,this game deserves a resounding 10/10,and is the best iteration in the series since Mario Kart DS!    … Expand
  19. nuevocharrua
    Apr 28, 2017
    10
    Si la version de Wii U era casi perfecta, la version de Switch, ya lo es. La principal pega de la version de Wii U , era el modo batalla, cosa que mejoro infinitamente con la version Delux, Ademas, poder jugar en portatil, hace un juego imprescindible.
  20. SuperMatt777
    Apr 28, 2017
    10
    A lot of my positive feedback for this game is carried over from the original Mario Kart 8: a slew of amazing tracks, both old and new, superb gameplay, great dlc and loads of multiplayer fun. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe adds a bit more to the table, being 5 new characters, 3 returning favorites and the Inklings from Splatoon, some new kart parts and, of course, the revamped battle mode, which isA lot of my positive feedback for this game is carried over from the original Mario Kart 8: a slew of amazing tracks, both old and new, superb gameplay, great dlc and loads of multiplayer fun. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe adds a bit more to the table, being 5 new characters, 3 returning favorites and the Inklings from Splatoon, some new kart parts and, of course, the revamped battle mode, which is a great addition to the multiplayer madness Mario Kart is known for. However, despite the praise I give these additions, I can still see flaws. While Mario Kart 8 Deluxe fixed a few problems (mainly the double item holding that was absent in the original), it still holds a few problems that Mario Kart 8 had. The lack of invincibility frames when getting hit by an item can come off as incredibly annoying and opens up item spam from both players and CPUs. This is an incredibly frustrating thing, especially for someone who likes to relax with the game. And, despite the amazing additions, I still believe these were things that should've been in Mario Kart 8 to begin with and really didn't need an 80 dollar port to achieve them. Regardless, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the definitive version of Mario Kart 8 to own. If you never had the original, then this is a must have for the switch, including everything you would've had and more. If you already had the Wii U version, you may feel a slight hint of being ripped off, but if you're also a dedicated fan, then it's something you can likely overlook, especially for something that's fun to play with a group of people.… Expand
  21. alexozzycake
    Oct 9, 2018
    10
    Fantastic. We're still playing this over a year after release with no intention of stopping. Endless replay value with features that remain constantly challenging (damn those 200CC staff ghosts) and tonnes of fun to relax with some light-hearted battle modes. Whilst it is true that this port hasn't added a whole lot to the Wii U version, that doesn't stop it from being a great game in itsFantastic. We're still playing this over a year after release with no intention of stopping. Endless replay value with features that remain constantly challenging (damn those 200CC staff ghosts) and tonnes of fun to relax with some light-hearted battle modes. Whilst it is true that this port hasn't added a whole lot to the Wii U version, that doesn't stop it from being a great game in its own right and it's definitely a decent upgrade with great graphics and a much more interesting item system in races.… Expand
  22. Ordeaux
    Oct 26, 2017
    10
    Mario kart 8 deluxe is a almost perfect port of the original Mario kart 8 also my first switch game it includes all the dlc from the original game and a brand new battle which is my favourite part of the game and includes 5 brand new character well actually three are returning and two are new and also runs at 1080p on the TV at 60 FPS single player 30 FPS multiplayer and 720p on theMario kart 8 deluxe is a almost perfect port of the original Mario kart 8 also my first switch game it includes all the dlc from the original game and a brand new battle which is my favourite part of the game and includes 5 brand new character well actually three are returning and two are new and also runs at 1080p on the TV at 60 FPS single player 30 FPS multiplayer and 720p on the handheld overall this a great version and game in general and i would recommend picking it up if you have a switch.… Expand
  23. jagoretorna
    Jul 2, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This games is very very good perfect!
    The caracthers is incredible
    The circuits more and variality    … Expand
  24. marcostoso27
    Apr 28, 2017
    10
    otimo jogo,completo,com seu modo battle mais divertido do que nunca.a verdadeira experiencia de um mario kart definitivo certamente ta na versão do switch.
  25. BichoXD
    Sep 27, 2017
    10
    sensillamente es genial aunque ya tenia la vercion de wii u me sentí obligado a comprar de nuevo el juego ya que el pena de la portabilidad es una idea fantastica
  26. derkonig6
    Dec 28, 2017
    10
    yes for me it's a 10 out of 10 and this is coming from a guy who gives 0 f***s about racing games. Solid game.
  27. ImHappy
    Oct 14, 2018
    10
    INcredible game: lot of maps, characters... extremely enjoyable. 1080p 60 fps insane. The best of Nintendo
  28. The_EpicGamerYT
    Aug 4, 2017
    10
    This is the definitive version of the Mario Kart racing game franchise. Smooth 1080p graphics when docked and always keeping a solid 60fps. The number of tracks, kart combinations, and characters in this game make it the biggest and best Mario Kart to date. The battle mode is finally fixed, bringing five unique and returning modes to spice up the variety. The online connection is reliableThis is the definitive version of the Mario Kart racing game franchise. Smooth 1080p graphics when docked and always keeping a solid 60fps. The number of tracks, kart combinations, and characters in this game make it the biggest and best Mario Kart to date. The battle mode is finally fixed, bringing five unique and returning modes to spice up the variety. The online connection is reliable and I didn't have any lag in my hours of playtime. Overall, everyone who owns a Nintendo Switch should get this game.… Expand
  29. Aluk
    Feb 10, 2022
    10
    Genialidad de Nintendo, en vez de sacar MK9 sacan un DLC con 48 Pistas! Grandes
  30. Creeper3455
    May 1, 2017
    10
    This is probably THE Mariokart 8 we all needed. I mean,sure,the Wii U version is fine,but this 'Deluxe' version,with all its DLCs,new charachters and new modes,is a tad more playable. There are the same courses and it's the same expirience,but from a graphcal standpoint,like LEGO City Undercover,it looks like they improved the graphics a little bit (And this time,there are no bugs orThis is probably THE Mariokart 8 we all needed. I mean,sure,the Wii U version is fine,but this 'Deluxe' version,with all its DLCs,new charachters and new modes,is a tad more playable. There are the same courses and it's the same expirience,but from a graphcal standpoint,like LEGO City Undercover,it looks like they improved the graphics a little bit (And this time,there are no bugs or errors,luckily....). Looks like Nintendo listened about the online multiplayer being not the same without the Battle modes,and it's not a surprise when i say that the Battle modes,with all the new and old maps,are perfectly playable. I mostly play with my Switch when it's on Portable Mode,and the frame rate is fine. It runs at 720p with 60fps,and i'm okay with it. In the end,Mariokart 8 Deluxe may be the first time where a remake is actually better than the original version,with smooth graphics,improved online multiplayer and,of course,the same old Mario fun!… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

3
#3 Best Switch Game of 2017
4
#4 Most Discussed Switch Game of 2017
4
#4 Most Shared Switch Game of 2017

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
92

Universal acclaim - based on 95 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 93 out of 95
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 95
  3. Negative: 0 out of 95
  1. Power Unlimited
    Oct 19, 2017
    85
    You could see Mario Kart 8 Deluxe as an easy port, because it is to a certain extent. But it would be silly to disregard the ultimate fun this kart experience offers because of this. If you have a Nintendo Switch, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is an essential purchase you will play for over three years and never regret buying.
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  2. Wired UK
    Aug 30, 2017
    90
    Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a refinement rather than a remaster, but one that corrects the few flaws of its predecessor. It would be nice if there was just a bit more new content to help justify the full price release, or if you didn't have to unlock kart mods all over again, but for the foreseeable future, this is the definitive – and best – Mario Kart experience.
    Read full review
  3. LEVEL (Czech Republic)
    Jul 5, 2017
    60
    Funny racing game featuring the most popular tracks from all older sequels and versions. Don’t waste your time with reality – shoot the enemy with the turtle shell! [Issue#275]
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