In the world of gaming, few titles can claim to have had as significant an impact as Mario Kart 8. However, all good things must come to an end, and it seems that the time has come for this Nintendo classic to pass the torch.
Initially launched on Wii U in 2014 and revitalized with the Deluxe Edition on Nintendo Switch in 2017, Mario Kart 8 has won the affection of players worldwide. Thanks to its lively tracks, its cult characters and its accessible but rich game mechanics, it dominated the world of karting for many years. But all good things must end.
Mario Kart 8 says thank you
The video game sector is constantly evolving, and even the most iconic titles must adapt to the progression of time. Whispers in the industry suggest the development of a Mario Kart 8 heir, which promises to bring innovations and a refreshed experience to fans. To mark the end of an era and the last Pass, Nintendo has chosen to mark this passage by enriching its end credits with a new image. Revealed following the completion of the Thorned Cup.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe reached 57.01 million units sold, positioning it at the top of Switch game sales. These statistics establish Mario Kart 8 Deluxe not only as a must-have for the Switch but also as one of the most popular games of the current era, far surpassing Animal Crossing: New Horizons and its 43 million units sold.
The end of the waves
In fact, the game system worked on a very good wave system. It includes twelve additional cups, for a total of 48 additional tracks, bringing the total number of tracks in the game to 96. Most are remastered versions of tracks from other Mario Kart games, including Mario Kart Tour. These tracks are based on their Mario Kart Tour designs but with significant visual enhancements and new musical arrangements. Starting with the fourth release wave, the pass also includes eight additional playable characters, all from other MK games.
The Booster Course Pass waves have been released as follows:
- The first wave was pre-loaded on March 15, 2022 and released in most regions on March 18, 2022.
- The fourth wave was launched on March 9, 2023.
- The fifth wave was launched on July 12, 2023.
- The sixth and final wave was launched on November 9, 2023