Free Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Switch 2 update adds eight-player split-screen

• New Switch 2 Mario Kart 8 Deluxe update adds eight-player local split-screen
• Enhanced visuals and loading times
• CameraPlay implemented in V4.0.0 

Nintendo has just released a free Switch 2 update for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, adding support for eight-player split-screen play.

Despite the release of its sequel, Mario Kart World, in June 2025, Deluxe retains lasting appeal, with many Switch 2 owners favouring the older title. Perhaps as a result of this, Nintendo has opted to utilise the extra power of its latest hybrid console to offer enhanced visuals.

Switch 2 players can now take advantage of its 4K TV and 1080p handheld outputs, with eight players able to play local split-screen using either Switch or Switch 2 controllers (a large TV would be advantageous in this scenario). The game also benefits from shorter loading times.

By connecting a suitable USB-C camera, players can also see each other’s faces mid-game thanks to the addition of World’s CameraPlay feature, which is available both for online and local play.

The changelog for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe’s V4.0.0 update is listed below.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe V4.0.0 update changelog

Support for the Nintendo Switch 2 system

• Added support for the Nintendo Switch 2 display and high-resolution TVs, allowing for clearer visuals.
• Shortened the loading time before races and battles begin.
• Added support for 5–8 players in Multiplayer.
  • You can connect up to seven Nintendo Switch controllers (Joy-Con or Nintendo Switch Pro Controllers) to the Nintendo Switch 2 system. In order to play with eight people, you need at least one Joy-Con 2 controller or a Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller.
• Added CameraPlay support.
  • A USB camera (sold separately) is required to use CameraPlay.
  • Players can turn camera ON or OFF in Multiplayer (2-4 players) and Online Play modes.
  • In order to use a camera on the internet, players must participate in a GameChat session. The camera footage and microphone audio will be sent only to GameChat members.
  • When the camera is ON, the player’s face is displayed during the race.

General

• Increased player speed during races by the equivalent of one coin.
• Players will not slow down while using Boo to become invisible, even when entering an offroad area.
• Players with access to the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Booster Course Pass will have “96 Races” added to the “VS Race” rule settings.