Nintendo has dropped a surprise update for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, offering some huge changes for Switch 2 gamers. And what’s more, it’s completely free.
Gamers have reacted appropriately given the update’s out-of-the-blue nature. Many expected Nintendo to prioritise new content for Mario Kart World, especially as it was a Switch 2 launch title. But patch v4.0.0 includes three huge new features for the latest Nintendo console that may give the game a new lease of life.
The headline feature is that chaotic eight-player races are now supported on one Nintendo Switch 2 system. That means a manic eight-way split-screen competition perfect for parties and get-togethers.
Nintendo has also added CameraPlay support for the game. Players can now use a compatible USB camera to display their faces and reactions while duking it out for bragging rights on the tracks.
Finally, and arguably the most obvious new feature of the update, is improved visuals and shorter load times. Nintendo promises “sharper” graphics thanks to support for high-resolution televisions.
Fans on Reddit have expressed their surprise at the update, which also includes a handful of quality of life changes. One wrote: “Man I love Nintendo’s randomness.
“No announcement, no hype, no tweets. Just. Here’s an update brah.” Another said: “I thought they would never do this for 8 deluxe.”
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe v4.0.0 update – patch notes
Support for the Nintendo Switch 2 system
