Mario Kart 8 Deluxe brings back everything that made the Wii U version great. Only this time, it’s even better and there’s even more content.
A Nintendo Switch port of Mario Kart 8 is officially here in the form of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. In reality, we’ve played this game before on the Nintendo Wii U. It’s still the same game and it practically plays the exact same way. However, with all of the added features and the new Battle Mode, this is the definitive version of the game. In fact, this might be the greatest Mario Kart game ever, and that’s saying quite a bit.
Like we said, this game is very familiar. We’ll spare the details when it comes to explaining every feature about this game and we’ll focus mostly on the new things. The most we’ll say is that everything is included in Deluxe. If you never purchased the DLC for Mario Kart 8 on the Wii U (which you should have), then don’t worry. This game already has that included, which is awesome. That means you’ll be able to play on a number of new courses that you probably didn’t play the first time around. One of our personal favorites is Big Blue. You’ll also be able to play as new characters, such as Link and Tanooki Mario.
The original version had a great online experience. Although Nintendo’s online service can be a bit tedious because of the lack of features, it does run fairly smoothly. We can say the same about this game. Unfortunately, since it is the first day, we have encountered some server issues and have found ourselves seeing this message on a number of occasions:
Despite that, whenever we’re able to find a match, we’re able to play the match in its entirety. There’s absolutely no lag and we’re never disconnected from a match in progress. That’s definitely encouraging and kudos to Nintendo for that.
As for the rest of the online features, we can now party up with a group of friends in an online lobby and play together. In the original game, that was a mission in itself. So, this is definitely an improvement. There are also new tournaments. You can create your own for your friends and play both online or locally. There’s also the option of joining random community tournaments, which is awesome.
Altogether, the online experience is slightly better, but Nintendo definitely needs to work out the kinks. We’re sure we’ll learn more about their online subscription service at E3 in June.
Like we stated earlier, every character is available in this game. Depending on who you like to play as, you won’t have to wait to unlock them since they’re playable right from the start. However, now, instead of 37 playable characters, there’s 42 with the addition of five new ones. Those characters are King Boo, Dry Bones, Bowser Jr. and the Boy and Girl Inklings from Splatoon.
Finally, the new and improved Battle Mode. Arguably, the only thing that was missing and/or lackluster from the original version was this mode. It’s safe to say that Battle Mode is better than ever in Deluxe. Being reworked to be similar to the other Battle Modes from other games in the series, this one is fantastic.
There are different games to play in Battle Mode. For example, there’s Balloon Battle, Renegade Roundup, Bob-omb Blast, Coin Runners and Shine Thief. Each offers a different dynamic to this mode that makes for an incredibly fun time.
The ability to play online against other people is what truly changes the game. Sometimes, you want to take a break from all the racing and just duke it out in a different type of mode. It’s plenty of fun playing against others on a variety of different and unique courses. This is, by far, the best addition to this game.
Next: Nintendo announces new Nintendo 2DS XL system
Verdict
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is simply an improved version of an already phenomenal game. It has all the content from the original game along with some new additions. The online is smooth, but it could use a bit of work. Overall, a must buy on the Nintendo Switch.
The possibilities with this new console make this game even more enjoyable. You can play at home by yourself or with friends and family, you can take it with you on the go and link up with other Switch owners, or you can play online. This is the perfect game to really take advantage of what the Switch is all about.
Score: 9.8/10