Mario Kart 8

Game Overview

Mario Kart 8 is a 2014 kart-racing game developed primarily by Nintendo EAD (with assistance from Bandai Namco Studios) and published by Nintendo exclusively for the Wii U. It is the eighth mainline console entry in the Mario Kart series and the first to feature full HD graphics.

Players choose from a large roster of Mario characters (and later DLC guests), customize their vehicles with different bodies, tires, and gliders, then compete in high-speed races across imaginative courses. The standout new mechanic is anti-gravity, which allows karts to drive on walls, ceilings, and looping tracks while colliding with rivals for Spin Turbos. Classic series features return, including hang-gliding, underwater driving, tricks, and a wide variety of power-up items.

The base game includes 32 tracks split across eight cups (16 brand-new and 16 remastered classics), 30 playable characters (many unlockable), and extensive vehicle part combinations. Two paid DLC packs later added 16 more tracks, additional characters (including Link, Isabelle, and Tanooki Mario), vehicles, and the 200cc engine class. The game supports local multiplayer for up to four players and online play for up to 12. It was the best-selling Wii U title with over 8.4 million copies sold and later received an enhanced Switch version titled Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

Quick Specifications

• Title: Mario Kart 8
  
• Platform: Wii U
  
• Release Date: May 29–31, 2014 (varies by region)
  
• Developer: Nintendo EAD / Bandai Namco Studios
  
• Publisher: Nintendo
  
• Genre: Kart Racing, Multiplayer
  
• Players: 1–4 local / up to 12 online
  
• Rating: ESRB E / PEGI 3
  
• Modes: Single-player, Local Multiplayer, Online Multiplayer
  
• Compatible Controllers: Wii U GamePad, Wii U Pro Controller, Wii Remote, Wii Remote + Nunchuk, Classic Controller, Wii Wheel
  
• Features: Online play, amiibo support, downloadable content, Miiverse integration (discontinued)
  
• Storage: Base game roughly 4+ GB; full DLC adds additional space
  

Key Features

• Revolutionary anti-gravity racing that lets you drive on walls and ceilings
  
• 32 tracks at launch (expandable to 48 with DLC) featuring both new circuits and remastered classics
  
• Extensive vehicle customization with karts, bikes, ATVs, tires, and gliders
  
• Large character roster including the Koopalings, Baby Rosalina, Pink Gold Peach, and more
  
• Classic Mario Kart items plus new ones such as the Super Horn, Boomerang Flower, and Piranha Plant
  
• Local multiplayer for up to 4 players and online races for up to 12
  
• Multiple modes including Grand Prix, Time Trials, VS Race, and Battle
  
• Free Mercedes-Benz vehicle pack and two major paid DLC packs
  
• 200cc engine class added via free update for extreme high-speed racing
  
• High-quality HD presentation and excellent performance on Wii U hardware
  

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

How many tracks does the base game have?

The base game includes 32 tracks across eight cups. Two DLC packs later added 16 more tracks, bringing the total to 48.

Does Mario Kart 8 support online multiplayer?

Yes. It supports online races with up to 12 players. Note that Nintendo Network online services for Wii U were discontinued in 2024, so official online play is no longer available.

What is the difference between Mario Kart 8 and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (Switch) includes all original DLC content unlocked from the start, adds new characters (Inklings, King Boo, Dry Bones, Bowser Jr.), a completely overhauled Battle Mode with dedicated arenas, the ability to hold two items at once, Smart Steering, and higher resolution (up to 1080p).

Is there DLC for the Wii U version?

Yes. There was a free Mercedes-Benz vehicle pack, plus two paid DLC packs: The Legend of Zelda × Mario Kart 8 and Animal Crossing × Mario Kart 8. These added tracks, characters, vehicles, and more.

Can I use a Wii U Pro Controller?

Yes. The game fully supports the Wii U Pro Controller along with the GamePad, Wii Remote (horizontal or with Nunchuk), Classic Controller, and Wii Wheel.

How many characters are playable?

The base game features 30 characters (some unlockable). DLC added several more, including Link, Isabelle, Tanooki Mario, Cat Peach, and Animal Crossing villagers.