Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Switch 2 Update

The free Mario Kart 8 Deluxe update released on 2 September 2026 adds local eight-player split-screen, CameraPlay, enhanced visuals and shorter loading times on Nintendo Switch 2. The update itself does not require a paid membership or Nintendo Gift Card. A paid Nintendo Switch Online membership is required only when CameraPlay is used online through GameChat.

What does the Switch 2 update add?

This is not a new game or a Mario Kart World content pack. It upgrades an existing copy of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on Switch 2. An internet connection and linked Nintendo Account are required to download the software update, and players must already own Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

Up to eight players on one Switch 2 in local split-screen
CameraPlay with a compatible USB-C camera
Improved visuals on the Switch 2 screen and supported high-resolution TVs
Shorter loading times

How does eight-player local multiplayer work?

Up to eight people can race on one Switch 2 in local Multiplayer mode. Each player needs a compatible controller, such as supported Joy-Con, Joy-Con 2 or Pro Controller configurations. Extra controllers are sold separately. Because this is local play, a Nintendo Switch Online membership is not required.

Does CameraPlay require Nintendo Switch Online?

Use	Requirements	Nintendo Switch Online
Local 8-player race	Switch 2 and one compatible controller per player	No
Local CameraPlay	Compatible USB-C camera; available for 2–4 players	No
Online CameraPlay via GameChat	Internet, compatible camera, GameChat and phone-number registration	Paid membership required

Compare Nintendo Switch Online membership options for supported online features. If you are choosing a term, read the 3-month vs 12-month membership guide.

Which NES games were added to Nintendo Switch Online?

Nintendo also added Ninja Gaiden III: The Ancient Ship of Doom, IKARI WARRIORS and R.C. PRO-AM II to the standard Nintendo Classics NES catalogue. In Japan, Dragon Buster is offered instead of R.C. PRO-AM II. Catalogue availability can vary by Nintendo Account country.

Is a Nintendo Gift Card required?

No. The Mario Kart update is free. A Nintendo Gift Card adds balance for paid Nintendo eShop purchases, while a membership code activates online access for a fixed term. Before buying a USD, EUR, GBP, BRL, MXN or JPY code, check the Nintendo eShop region compatibility guide.

Quick summary

In short: local eight-player racing is free once you own the game and have enough controllers; online CameraPlay requires a paid membership; Gift Cards and membership codes are different products.

Official sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Switch 2 update free?

Yes. The software update is free, but you must own Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

Can eight people play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on one Switch 2?

Yes. Local split-screen supports up to eight players when enough compatible controllers are available.

Does local eight-player play require Nintendo Switch Online?

No. A paid membership is not required for local eight-player racing.

What does CameraPlay require?

Local CameraPlay needs a compatible USB-C camera and supports 2–4 players. Online GameChat also requires internet, a paid membership and phone-number registration.

Which NES games were added in September 2026?

Ninja Gaiden III, IKARI WARRIORS and R.C. PRO-AM II were added; Japan receives Dragon Buster instead of R.C. PRO-AM II.

Is a Nintendo Gift Card the same as a membership code?

No. A Gift Card adds eShop balance; a membership code activates Nintendo Switch Online for a set period.