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How Many People Can Play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on the Nintendo Switch?

The answer, as with many things in life, is: it depends! Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on the Nintendo Switch offers a variety of multiplayer modes, each supporting a different number of players. This allows for everything from cozy races on the couch to sprawling, multi-console tournaments. So, let’s break it down:

Single Console Play: Up to four players can play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on a single Nintendo Switch console using split-screen.
Local Wireless Play: Up to eight players can connect multiple Nintendo Switch consoles wirelessly for some intense local multiplayer action. Each player needs their own console and a copy of the game.
LAN Play: Up to 12 players can connect 12 Nintendo Switch consoles using the dock’s LAN adapter and LAN play. This requires each Switch to be connected via a LAN adapter and that each console and dock is plugged into a TV.
Online Play: You can race against up to 12 players from around the world, although only a maximum of two players can play from the same Switch in online races.

In short, the number of players varies from 1 to 12 depending on the play style you are looking to play.

Unpacking the Multiplayer Options in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe shines in its multiplayer versatility. Whether you’re huddled around a single screen with friends or connecting multiple consoles for a massive race, the game offers several ways to compete. Understanding each mode and its player limitations ensures everyone gets in on the kart racing fun.

Single Console Mayhem: Up to Four Players

The most straightforward way to play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe with friends is on a single console. This utilizes the split-screen functionality of the Nintendo Switch, dividing the screen into quadrants, one for each player.

Controller Options: You can use a variety of controller configurations for this mode, including:
- Two Joy-Con controllers (each player using one Joy-Con).
- One Joy-Con Grip with two Joy-Cons attached (for a more traditional controller feel).
- One Nintendo Switch Pro Controller.
Ease of Access: This mode is incredibly easy to set up, making it perfect for spontaneous gaming sessions. Simply select the appropriate number of players from the main menu (2P, 3P, or 4P) and you’re ready to race!

While split-screen can feel a bit cramped, especially on the smaller Nintendo Switch Lite screen, it’s a fantastic and convenient option for quick multiplayer thrills.

Local Wireless Racing: Eight Players, Eight Consoles

For a more expansive multiplayer experience, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe supports local wireless play. This allows up to eight players to connect their Nintendo Switch consoles wirelessly, each needing their own copy of the game.

Setup: One player creates a room, and the other players join. It’s that simple!
Benefits: Local wireless play offers a much less cramped experience than split-screen, as each player gets their own dedicated screen. It also encourages more social interaction, as players can easily communicate and trash-talk each other in person.

LAN Play: The Ultimate Tournament Experience

For the truly dedicated Mario Kart enthusiasts, LAN play offers the most robust and stable multiplayer experience. This mode allows up to 12 Nintendo Switch consoles (each connected to a TV via the dock and LAN adapter) to connect to a local area network (LAN).

Requirements: This mode requires a LAN adapter for each Nintendo Switch dock, a router, and an Ethernet cable to connect each console.
Benefits: LAN play provides the most stable connection, minimizing lag and ensuring a smooth racing experience, perfect for competitive tournaments or large gatherings.

Online Multiplayer: Global Competition

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe also boasts robust online multiplayer, allowing you to race against players from around the world.

Player Count: While online races can accommodate up to 12 players, only two players can play from the same Nintendo Switch console in online races.
Modes: Online play offers various modes, including:
- Regional: Race against players in your region.
- Worldwide: Compete against players from all over the globe.
- Friends: Race against your registered friends.
- Tournaments: Participate in organized tournaments with specific rules and rewards.

Online play expands the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe experience significantly, offering endless opportunities to test your skills against a global community of racers.

Maximizing Your Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Multiplayer Experience

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable multiplayer experience in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, keep the following tips in mind:

Controller Considerations: Make sure you have enough controllers for the desired number of players. Remember, two Joy-Cons can be used as two separate controllers.
Network Stability: For online play, ensure you have a stable internet connection to minimize lag. LAN play provides the most stable connection for local multiplayer tournaments.
Game Updates: Always keep your Mario Kart 8 Deluxe game updated to the latest version to ensure compatibility and access to the latest features.
Screen Size: When playing in split-screen, consider using a larger TV screen for a better viewing experience.

FAQs: Answering Your Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Multiplayer Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the multiplayer capabilities of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe:

Can you play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe with only friends?

Yes, you can create a room and invite only your friends to race online in a private lobby.
How many Joy-Cons do you need for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe 4 players?

You need either four individual Joy-Con controllers or two sets of Joy-Cons (four individual Joy-Cons) with two players sharing each set with one in each hand or two Nintendo Switch Pro Controllers.
Can you play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe with one Joy-Con?

Yes, each player can use a single Joy-Con controller. However, it’s highly suggested to use two for maximum usage of all buttons and functions.
Can you play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe with 5 players?

Not on a single console. You would need at least two Nintendo Switch consoles and copies of the game to accommodate five players via local wireless play.
How do you play 8 players on Switch Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?

You need eight Nintendo Switch consoles and eight copies of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. One player creates a room, and the other seven players join.
Is Mario Kart 8 Deluxe split screen?

Yes, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe supports split-screen for up to four players on a single console.
Does Mario Kart 8 Deluxe require Nintendo Switch Online for local multiplayer?

No, Nintendo Switch Online is only required for online multiplayer. Local multiplayer, including split-screen and local wireless play, does not require a Nintendo Switch Online subscription.
Can you play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe with a mix of Joy-Cons and Pro Controllers?

Yes, the game supports a mix of different controller types simultaneously.
What is the maximum number of players in a LAN party for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?

The maximum number of players in a LAN party is 12.
Does Mario Kart 8 Deluxe have a grand prix mode for multiplayer?

Yes, you can play Grand Prix mode in local multiplayer with up to four players.
Can you customize the race rules in multiplayer?

Yes, you can customize various race rules, such as the number of laps, the item frequency, and the CPU difficulty.
How do you start a local multiplayer game in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?

From the main menu, select “Multiplayer,” then choose the number of players on your console.
Can you play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe online with friends and strangers simultaneously?

Yes, you can create a room and invite your friends while also allowing strangers to join.
Does Mario Kart 8 Deluxe support voice chat in online multiplayer?

Voice chat is available through the Nintendo Switch Online app on your smartphone, not directly through the game itself.
Where can I learn more about the educational benefits of games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?

You can explore the research and resources available at the Games Learning Society website: GamesLearningSociety.org. They offer insights into how games can foster learning, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.

Conclusion

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a true multiplayer powerhouse, offering a variety of ways to play with friends and family, whether you prefer cozy split-screen races, expansive local wireless tournaments, or competitive online matches. Understanding the player limitations of each mode allows you to tailor your gaming experience to your specific needs and preferences. So gather your friends, grab your controllers, and get ready to race! Mario Kart 8 Deluxe will provide hours of gaming fun.

How many people can play Mario Kart Switch?