Mario Kart 8 Deluxe — Is It Worth It in 2026?
More than eight years after launch, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is still the default party game on Nintendo Switch. It bundles the base Wii U game with every DLC track plus the Booster Course Pass, giving you 96 courses in total. If you own a Switch and ever play with other people in the same room, this is the safest $60 you can spend.
What you get
- 48 original courses + 48 remastered tracks from the Booster Course Pass
- Local wireless for up to 4 Switch systems, and 12-player online
- Every character and vehicle part unlocked from the start (no grind)
- Auto-steer and smart-steering make it approachable for kids and newcomers
Who should buy it
Families, couch-multiplayer fans, and anyone who wants a game that works instantly with zero learning curve. If you only play solo and already own the Wii U version, the value is lower — but the Switch port's portable play and bundled DLC still make it the definitive edition.
Digital or physical?
Digital means it's always installed and ready; physical means you can resell it later. Nintendo first-party titles almost never drop below MSRP, so the "cheapest" question is less about discount and more about where you have store credit. Watch the Nintendo eShop seasonal sales and retailer bundle deals around Black Friday.
Where to buy cheapest
Prices change frequently — always verify on the store before purchasing.