Yes, you read the title right. In a bizarre move, Nintendo has decided to add 8-player split-screen to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, presumably so the name makes sense. So if you have 7 friends over, you can all play form the same console, on the same TV. Hope you have a big screen. And a lot of spare controllers.
The update is live for both consoles, but only the Switch 2 is capable of playing in that mode. If you try to go above 4 players on the original Switch, you get the screenshot below. As for why not update MK World the same way, it's possible the game is too graphically demanding. Though, with Nintendo, you never know.
The update also adds support for the camera functionality on the Switch 2, so you'll be able to see your own face during gameplay. There are also several smaller changes, like adjustments to kart speed during races, or small changes to courses. Check the full changes down below.
Quote From Nintendo Support An update was released on September 1, 2026. The following changes were made:
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.
Unlisted changes
The Nintendo eShop icon on the mode selection screen was changed from orange to red, matching the change made to the Nintendo eShop at the Nintendo Switch 2's launch.
The minimaps for the Booster Course Pass Wave 6 courses were corrected to match the color used for them throughout the rest of the game, with Wii Rainbow Road's map also receiving a dropshadow.
The Star Bits on Wii Rainbow Road were removed.
What do you think of this change? Are you gonna get 7 friends together to play, or will you limit yourself to 5? Let us know in the comments below!
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