Game reviews / Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
2017 · Nintendo Switch · Racing · Kart racing
3 scored sources · 2 countries contributing scores
Review consensus
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the definitive version of Nintendo’s excellent kart racer, combining polished handling, inventive anti-gravity track design, a large roster, extensive content, and smooth play both at home and in portable mode. Its most important improvement is the complete overhaul of Battle Mode, which adds dedicated arenas and varied rulesets that make multiplayer substantially more engaging. Critics consistently praise the game’s presentation, accessibility, skill-based drifting, and wealth of included DLC. The main reservation is that it remains an enhanced Wii U port, with few surprises for returning players and no entirely new Grand Prix tracks in the base release.
Limited geographic coverage. Treat this score as an early indication.
Last researched: 2026-09-18
Pros
- Excellent handling and skillful drifting
- Outstanding variety of tracks, characters, and customization
- Revamped Battle Mode with dedicated arenas and multiple modes
- Smooth, attractive docked and portable performance
Cons
- Limited novelty for owners of the Wii U original
- No new Grand Prix tracks in the base release
- Some visual aliasing and occasional texture or shadow imperfections
Review sources
3 sources found across 2 countries. This is not exhaustive worldwide coverage.
- Nintendo Life · United Kingdom · 100/100
- Destructoid · United States · 95/100
- GameSpot · United States · 90/100