Nintendo has released a surprise software update for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on the Switch 2, introducing eight-player local split-screen multiplayer alongside visual enhancements and gameplay adjustments.
The standout feature of the free update doubles the title's local multiplayer capacity, which was previously limited to four players on one system. To take advantage of the eight-way display mode, users must run the game on a Switch 2 console using connected Joy-Con 2 or Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controllers.
Technical performance also receives a boost under the new patch, offering sharper image quality and noticeably faster loading times on Switch 2 hardware. Furthermore, Nintendo added support for GameShare and CameraPlay functionality. This allows groups ranging from two to four participants to view live camera feeds of fellow racers during competition.
The patch includes several minor tweaks detailed in Nintendo's update notes. Players who own the Booster Course Pass expansion can now choose a comprehensive 96-race option when configuring custom VS matches. In terms of racing mechanics, players will no longer suffer a speed penalty while Boo steals an item from an opponent, and all characters have received a minor baseline speed buff equal to one coin.
This unexpected Mario Kart patch arrives amidst broader update activity across Nintendo's software lineup. Pikmin 3 Deluxe recently gained a similar free patch aimed at improving visual output and load speeds on Switch 2 consoles. Meanwhile, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate received a small update focused on refining online battles, though Nintendo has not yet rolled out a dedicated Switch 2 enhancement for the crossover brawler.
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