The Ultimate Guide to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Track Costs: Are Those New Courses Worth It?
So, you’re itching to tear up the asphalt on some fresh Mario Kart 8 Deluxe tracks, huh? You’ve heard about new courses, maybe even seen some tantalizing previews, but the big question looms: How much will it cost you? The good news is, adding new content to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is relatively straightforward, but the pricing structure can be a bit nuanced. Let’s break it down.
The most direct way to get your hands on the new tracks is through the Booster Course Pass. This pass unlocks a whopping 48 additional courses, effectively doubling the original game’s track list. The Booster Course Pass has a one-time cost of $24.99 USD / $32.99 CAN / £22.49. Once purchased, you’ll have access to all released waves of tracks and future waves as they are released.
However, there’s a second path to accessing these new courses. If you’re a subscriber to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, you gain access to the Booster Course Pass content at no additional cost for as long as your subscription remains active. This is a significant perk for subscribers, essentially bundling the DLC into the membership.
Here’s the core takeaway:
- Standalone Purchase (Booster Course Pass): $24.99 USD / $32.99 CAN / £22.49 (one-time fee)
- Included with Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: No additional cost (ongoing subscription fee applies)
Choosing the best option depends on your gaming habits. If you plan on playing Mario Kart 8 Deluxe extensively and value owning the content outright, the Booster Course Pass is the way to go. If you already subscribe to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack for online play and other benefits, then you’re already covered!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Track Costs
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about accessing new tracks in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, providing clarity and helpful tips. This kind of educational value aligns with the goals of organizations such as the Games Learning Society.
How do I get the new tracks on Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?
There are two paths to accessing the new tracks:
- Purchase the Booster Course Pass: This is a one-time purchase from the Nintendo eShop that grants you access to all waves of tracks.
- Subscribe to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: An active subscription gives you access to the Booster Course Pass content as long as your membership is valid.
Is the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Booster Course Pass worth it?
Absolutely! The Booster Course Pass doubles the number of tracks available in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. It adds a ton of replayability and variety, making it a worthwhile investment for Mario Kart enthusiasts. The tracks are often remastered classics from previous Mario Kart games, bringing a nostalgic and exciting experience. This added gameplay can enhance cognitive skills and strategic thinking. For more on the educational aspects of gaming, visit GamesLearningSociety.org.
Do you have to pay extra for new Mario Kart tracks if you have Nintendo Switch Online?
Not necessarily. If you have the standard Nintendo Switch Online subscription, you will need to pay extra for the new tracks. However, if you subscribe to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, the Booster Course Pass is included as part of your subscription at no additional cost.
Are all the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Booster Course Pass tracks released yet?
No. The Booster Course Pass includes six waves of eight tracks each, totaling 48 new tracks. All six waves were released by the end of 2023.
Can I buy the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe tracks individually?
No. The Booster Course Pass cannot be purchased in individual waves. You have to buy the complete pass.
What happens to the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe tracks if my Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription expires?
If your Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription expires, you will lose access to the Booster Course Pass content until you renew your subscription or purchase the Booster Course Pass separately.
How do I download the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Booster Course Pass?
- Ensure you have an active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership or have purchased the Booster Course Pass.
- Open the Nintendo eShop on your Nintendo Switch.
- Search for “Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Booster Course Pass.”
- Select the download option and follow the on-screen instructions.
Why can’t I access the new Mario Kart 8 Deluxe tracks even though I have the Booster Course Pass?
Double-check that the Booster Course Pass is downloaded on your Nintendo Switch. Open the Nintendo eShop with the Nintendo Account you used to purchase the pass and redownload it if necessary.
Does everyone in my family need to buy the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Booster Course Pass?
It depends on your Nintendo Switch Online subscription. If you have a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack family membership, everyone in your family group can access the Booster Course Pass content. If you have an individual membership or don’t have the Expansion Pack, each individual will need to either subscribe or purchase the standalone Booster Course Pass.
How many new tracks does the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Booster Course Pass add to the game?
The Booster Course Pass adds a total of 48 new tracks to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, doubling the original track selection.
What if I buy the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Booster Course Pass, and then later subscribe to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack?
The Nintendo Switch system is generally good at recognizing this. You’ll retain access through the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, and your prior purchase essentially becomes redundant. There usually isn’t a refund available for the Booster Course Pass if you later subscribe to the Expansion Pack.
Will there be more Mario Kart 8 Deluxe DLC in the future?
No, Nintendo has confirmed that the Booster Course Pass is the final DLC for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. All six waves were released by the end of 2023, completing the additional content.
Is there a physical version of the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Booster Course Pass?
No. The Booster Course Pass is a digital-only DLC, available for purchase through the Nintendo eShop or accessible via the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership.
What are some of the tracks included in the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Booster Course Pass?
The Booster Course Pass includes remastered courses from previous Mario Kart games, such as:
- Coconut Mall (Mario Kart Wii)
- Tokyo Blur (Mario Kart Tour)
- Ninja Hideaway (Mario Kart Tour)
- Choco Mountain (Mario Kart 64)
- Maple Treeway (Mario Kart Wii)
- Rainbow Road (Mario Kart 7)
- Athens Dash (Mario Kart Tour)
- Daisy Cruiser (Mario Kart Double Dash)
- And many more!
How do I unlock everything in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, including the new tracks?
The new tracks are unlocked automatically once you have the Booster Course Pass or an active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership. As for unlocking everything else in the game, keep racing! Unlockables are tied to collecting coins and achieving high rankings in races and cups. Play regularly, experiment with different karts and characters, and challenge yourself to higher difficulty settings.
Hopefully, this guide has cleared up any confusion regarding the cost and accessibility of the new tracks in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Now, get out there and race!