Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on Switch 2 Gets Free 8-Player Local Multiplayer Update
Nintendo has released a free update for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on Switch 2 that introduces an eight-player splitscreen mode, dividing the screen into eight portrait-style windows. The update also adds CameraPlay, which shows players' faces during races, but only for two to four participants. Enhanced visuals and reduced load times are included as well.
The update is exclusive to the Switch 2 version of the game, meaning original Switch owners will not receive the eight-player option. To accommodate the larger player count, the screen is divided into narrow vertical panels rather than the traditional grid layout, a design choice that prioritizes visibility of the track ahead over a conventional aspect ratio.
CameraPlay, which broadcasts live player faces during races, is limited to sessions of two to four participants, likely due to processing demands. The patch also improves graphical fidelity and accelerates loading between races. This release follows the game's recent inclusion in IGN's retrospective of top racing titles, underscoring its enduring popularity nearly a decade after its initial launch.
This update could significantly alter social gaming dynamics, making local multiplayer more inclusive for larger friend groups and families who previously had to take turns. By removing the barrier of online subscriptions or additional hardware beyond controllers, it may encourage more in-person gatherings around a single console. However, the Switch 2 exclusivity could create a divide, potentially pressuring existing owners to upgrade or leaving some communities behind. The portrait-style screen layout may also challenge readability, though the novelty could drive renewed interest in the aging title.