Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Surprise Update Adds 8-Player Split-Screen on Switch 2

Nintendo drops a free update for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on Switch 2, introducing 8-player split-screen, enhanced graphics, and faster load times. Here's what's new.

Remember when you thought Mario Kart 8 Deluxe had finally reached its limit? Well, Nintendo just proved us all wrong with a surprise free update that adds 8-player split-screen on Switch 2. Yes, you read that right—eight players, one screen, pure chaos. And it's available right now.

The update, version 4.0.0, is free to download and turns your TV into what looks like a chocolate bar divided into segments, each showing a different racer. It's a technical marvel, especially considering the Switch 2 is rendering eight separate viewpoints in real time. If you're brave enough, you can even try it in handheld mode—though your optometrist might have a word with you later.

But that's not all. The update also brings sharper graphics, CameraPlay support, and shorter load times, all thanks to the Switch 2's extra horsepower. There are even smaller quality-of-life tweaks under the hood, and apparently, player speed has been increased by a whopping coin—whatever that means. It's classic Nintendo, dropping subtle changes that keep us guessing.

This move shows Nintendo isn't ready to let Mario Kart 8 Deluxe fade into the background, even with Mario Kart World on the horizon. The game has been the best-selling Switch title for years, and this update ensures it stays relevant on the new console. Meanwhile, Mario Kart World has been struggling with a lack of content since its launch, leaving fans hungry for more. With a rumored Nintendo Direct later this month, many are hoping Mario Kart World gets some love soon.

If you haven't jumped into Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on Switch 2 yet, now's the perfect time. And if you're eyeing a new console, there's a Switch 2 + Mario Kart World bundle coming in late September for $550—which is actually $50 more than the original launch bundle, so keep that in mind.

Will you be gathering seven friends for an 8-player split-screen showdown? Let us know in the comments!