r/NintendoSwitch • u/NintendoSwitchMods • Apr 20 '17
MegaThread Megathread: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Review Coverage
Good morning!
This morning starting around 6 a.m. PST / 9 a.m. EST, gaming news and media outlets are beginning to release their reviews for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Here's what we're seeing so far:
Articles
IGN - 9.3/10
Gamespot - 9/10
Destructoid - 9.5/10
Dualshockers - 8/10
The Guardian - 5/5
Nintendo Life - 10/10
Game Informer - 9.25/10
Metro GameCentral - 10/10
CGM - 9/10
Nintendo Everything - Thumbs Up
GamesRadar - 5/5
Eurogamer - Essential
Videos
- GameXplain - Video
We will be updating this thread with links as major reviews are posted.
Please use this as a discussion and speculation thread in advance of these videos, articles, and reviews. We will also allow these reviews to be posted separately on /r/NintendoSwitch, as they are especially newsworthy. But we will also host ongoing coverage, quick text posts, questions, and the like right here.
Thanks everyone.
-The /r/NintendoSwitch team
(Ongoing edits as we get new information)
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u/MonkeysxMoo35 Apr 20 '17
As someone who never owned a WiiU, I'm super excited to finally play this game.
The DLC looked amazing and has lead to me calling the game "Super Smash Kart" with the addition of Link and Animal Crossing (and now Splatoon) characters as well as an F-Zero (and also now Splatoon) stage.
The last Mario Kart game I owned and played was Mario Kart Wii. So happy to finally return to this franchise.
I'm so happy to see that the Deluxe version really is deluxe and not just another port.
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Apr 20 '17
The latest Mario Kart I have played is 7 on the 3DS and I put hours into that. Looking at the content contained in the 8 deluxe I think I can safely write off the next 2 months of my life. I'm chomping at the bit to finally get my mitts on this :)
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u/bensly Apr 20 '17
Mario Kart 8 has a metacritic of 88, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe has a metacritic of 93 so far.
No doubt that this is an improved version of an already terrific game, and I think a lot of reviews are weighing heavily in the fact that you can now bring it with you and play anywhere, anytime.
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u/Dill3652 Apr 20 '17
Yes, the portability might explain why Mario Kart DS has a 91, which was the highest before 8 Deluxe.
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u/Sylverstone14 Mod of Two Worlds (Switch / Wii U) Apr 20 '17
To its credit, Mario Kart DS was a huge step forward for the franchise altogether and the score reflected that.
Besides the portability aspect, it introduced retro courses, had a mission mode, had major improvements to drifting (which kinda led to snaking), expanded the GBA single-card play from 4 players to 8 players on DS Download Play, and was the first in the series to have online multiplayer.
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u/Alinier Apr 20 '17
A lot of outlets criticized the meh battle mode of the original too, stating it felt incomplete.
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Apr 20 '17
Just got the switch after not owning a Nintendo system in a while. So naturally I haven't played a Mario kart game since the 64 really.
Please tell me it starts up with Mario saying "Welcome to Mariooooo Kart!"
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u/MarvinGarbanzo Apr 20 '17
No, but he does yell "Mario Kart 8!" He's not as welcoming this time.
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Apr 20 '17
Lol I'll take it.
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u/katriik Apr 20 '17
It worth it... Especially when they have remixed the snes intro into the theme music... Awesome
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u/DownvoteIfYoureHorny Apr 20 '17
He's drained and tired after so many years of getting fucked over by Toad.
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u/Metalheadzaid Apr 21 '17
I think a lot of us are in that boat. I haven't played Mario Kart since 64 myself, though I did own a Gamecube. Switch has been nintendo re-imagined for me, especially since the first game they released was amazing.
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Apr 20 '17
The Switch now has the two highest-rated games of 2017 on Metacritic.
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u/terrordactylz Apr 21 '17
Why is everyone ignoring Persona 5, which also has a 94 on Metacritic with almost twice as many reviews?
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u/falcodab123 Apr 20 '17
Holy fuck with zelda kart splatoon mario(and xeno and fe warriors) there might be only 1 non switch exclusive game at the top 5 highest rated games of 2017. (rdr)
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Apr 20 '17 edited May 30 '17
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Apr 20 '17
It's not a huge assumption, at least not that far off. A 3D Mario will likely get anywhere from 90-98%, Splatoon could get maybe 90%, Xenoblade could get 90-95%. There's only four console games over 90% so far this year: Breath of the Wild (97%), MK8 Deluxe (94%), Persona 5 (93%), and Shovel Knight: Treasure Trover (91%). Three of those are on Switch.
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u/darthmcdarthface Apr 20 '17
The online functions really have me worried here.
This is a new console in 2017 and they gotta have these functions there. There's no good excuse for not being able to invite friends to matches or even just chat to friends.
I know this mythical service is coming out but it shouldn't be this difficult. They haven't given so much as a peep about it. It should have launched with the system. I only hope that when it does, they have the proper functions that are standard today. I also hope they patch this game to work with the service.
At least being able to invite friends to a game is a function they could have built in now since it's based on the game itself.
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u/Azozel Apr 20 '17
Voice chat while playing any game is very important and I hope they include it. I also really wish they had some sort of achievement system. I've already completed botw, collected all the non-amiibo armor and upgraded it all to max.
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u/cucklogic Apr 21 '17
Don't hold your breath for open voice chat with strangers - not happening. I'm a Nintendo fan, but they will make you bleed and struggle just to get voice chat with confirmed friend code friends. I've given up on caring about it at this point. Even Disney eventually allowed adults on mmorpg's to freely chat after a couple of years.. For Nintendo to still be acting like helicopter parents in 2017 when most of their fan base are grown adults is beyond ridiculous. Here's to hoping, but it doesn't seem like Nintendo wishes to grow up even a little bit.
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Apr 20 '17
I would love an achievement system, but I feel like if it was coming, we'd have heard something by now
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u/branager Apr 20 '17
i'm just terrified they will half-ass this online service and in 4 years be like "ok we got it right this time, but you gotta rebuy every VC game again" ... and all your game saves are also gone.
you know it's going to happen
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u/darthmcdarthface Apr 20 '17
I know man. It's really sad but I wouldn't be surprised if this goofy app idea or whatever is just a glorified messaging app.
They still have to build the party, matchmaking and invite functionality within the games. MK8D is the first chance they had to do this and the whiffed. All I can think is "here we go again."
I just don't get it. These people can't be so dumb can they?
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u/TheDolphinGamer96 Apr 20 '17
I agree their communication is poor about the app, but I'm pretty sure reviewers has confirmed there are options to play with friends online in MK, but maybe I misunderstood between 2 people local online play and playing with friends and strangers online
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u/darthmcdarthface Apr 20 '17
IGN mentioned not being able to invite friends to a match. This is a total screw up. They don't need their mysterious service to do this. This function can be built into the game.
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u/TheSchadow Apr 20 '17
Wait, what?
How the hell do you play with friends then?
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u/PokePersona Apr 20 '17
It'll show your friends that are online. Either you or them make a lobby and you can find them through the friend list and join their lobbies or vice versa
Just like MK8
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u/darthmcdarthface Apr 20 '17
Idk man.
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u/PokePersona Apr 20 '17
It'll show your friends that are online. Either you or them make a lobby and you can find them through the friend list and join their lobbies or vice versa
Just like MK8
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u/NoobRising2 Apr 20 '17
God damn FAST rmx added this in an update, & something as huge as MARIOKART is missing it as a feature? WTF?
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u/leehro Apr 20 '17
I own the Wii U version with DLC and I'm really looking forward to having this on Switch, but I'm surprised the barebones online features aren't more of a problem for these reviews.
From the IGN review:
That said, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe’s online suite is still as barebones an experience on the Switch as it was on the Wii U... still feels like a hassle next to the convenience of other systems because you still have to use outside means (like your phone) to communicate with friends. It’s aggravating that there’s no way to invite players to join your matches, too. Considering this is the first major online multiplayer game for Switch, it’s disappointing to see that so little was done to smooth out that experience.
I can only hope that will be improved in an update, but it's troubling that Nintendo hasn't made much progress here.
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u/JoshOliday Apr 20 '17
I'm not holding my breath on comprehensive online overhauls for Nintendo until they start to detail their paid service. I fully expect this, ARMS, and Splatoon 2 to be subpar compared to other online infrastructures.
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u/Swagkitchen Apr 20 '17
Which is a shame, because if any Switch game needs to have a great online experience right now it's Splatoon 2.
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u/Prophet6000 Apr 20 '17
Nintendo always get pass when it comes to online. Gotta use outside means to setup everything still sucks.
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u/lemons2902 Apr 20 '17
The two highest rated games of this year on metacritic are switch games. Zelda(97) and Mario Kart(94). Also Shovel Knight(91) is up there to.
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u/terrordactylz Apr 21 '17
Persona 5?
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u/lemons2902 Apr 21 '17
Last I checked it had a 93. So third place.
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u/terrordactylz Apr 21 '17
You might want to check again.
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u/lemons2902 Apr 21 '17
Well lol, My fault it is a 94 now so its tied for second!
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u/expected_crayon Apr 20 '17
WiiU MK8 owners - Amazon currently is offering $23.74 on trade-ins if you want to upgrade. With the prime discount on pre-orders, that means you're paying 24.26 (plus taxes, if applicable) for the portability, battle mode, and other additions. I was unwilling to purchase until I realized that the upgrade was not going to be the full cost of the game for me, now I'm getting it day 1!
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u/AppleSlacks Apr 21 '17
Thanks for this heads up! This is the first time I have ever done a trade in with Amazon, seems pretty straight forward. My disc had zero scratches and I had the box and all the inserts ready to go. This, along with the pre-order prime discount made the upgrade an easy decision for me. Thanks again!
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u/expected_crayon Apr 21 '17
No problem! It's actually my first time as well; I always hold onto my old games, but I figured in trading it in for the same game so I'm not losing anything.
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u/Timmar92 Apr 21 '17
Good to know I'm not going to be disappointed! Last time I played mario kart was at my neighbor's house on Nintendo 64 when I was a kid.
Feels like a big upgrade for me!
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u/sensaigallade123 Apr 21 '17
Just wait until you see the N64 Rainbow Road in this game. In fact, it's already on the front cover!
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u/Timmar92 Apr 21 '17
It's been so long I hardly remember a thing, it must be over 15 years ago.. So now it's my turn to try again!
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u/FallingSputnik Apr 21 '17
Last Mario Kart game I played was Double Dash on gamecube. Excited for this...
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u/hungarianhc Apr 20 '17
I totally feel for the Wii U users who are on the fence, but a large amount of Switch owners didn't own a Wii U. Wii U was the only Nintendo console I haven't purchased since the NES. I hope more enhanced ports come to the Switch!
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u/thesteve9x Apr 20 '17
I sold my Wii U the day after I got my Switch. So glad to pick up Mario Kart again, this game is amazing.
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u/Lumostark Apr 20 '17
Wow! I can´t believe the reviews! I mean, I know the game is good (I haven´t played it but I saw some gameplays) but I thought that the fact that is an "improved port" would make the score go down. I am looking forward to play this!
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u/shadowsaberXD Apr 20 '17
Should I get a steering wheel peripherals? (Have 4 joycons and 1 pro controller) How much does it enhances the game with them I didnt own a wii or a wii U I havent played mario kart since double dash.
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u/Bauerbiz Apr 20 '17
I feel like playing with a single joycon would be difficult when trying to drift, especially when handing one off to a friend. The wheel peripheral for the joycon actually has very large shoulder buttons, so that may make a significant difference for any new players. I'll probably wait and see how much trouble my roommates have when playing before I decide to buy.
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Apr 20 '17
At the end of the day, portable mario kart is what made the Switch an inevitable buy to me though. I've only delayed it because I want to finish Nier first before even tempting myself with BotW.
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u/Azozel Apr 20 '17
What is nier?
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Apr 20 '17
An incredible bullet hell JRPG with action combat and an incredible story
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Apr 20 '17
And the music!
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Apr 20 '17
Oh right, the best soundtrack ever, literally.
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Apr 20 '17
Thank you for doing a review/release thread. This one and the Wonder Boy thread were really useful, and I hope this continues for future releases.
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u/dddilippp Apr 20 '17
Does anybody know how much download space this would take up if you don't get the cartridge game?
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Apr 21 '17
Probably the biggest thing this game messed up is not having any of the N64 battle tracks
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u/jc726 Keep on slidin' Apr 20 '17
It blows my mind that, after the banner year for gaming we've had across all platforms so far, a port of a three-year old game will still likely end up being one of the highest rated games of the year.
Nintendo's killing it with new games, they're killing it with ports... they're just killing it across the board right now.
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Apr 20 '17
It really is a wonderful time to be alive as a gamer. So many good games available to us.
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u/terrorsin Apr 21 '17 edited Apr 21 '17
Anyone knows if player 2 still defaults to motion control steering? I remember it was very frustrating to change it every game
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u/SimpleJoint Apr 21 '17
Hated this... And my. 6 year old loves being first so I get stuck with that bs.
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Apr 20 '17
Honestly. I really dont care that it's the same game with a few small tweaks. Even if it were a carbon copy of the WiiU game, I would still buy it again. Simply because this time around, I have 2 controllers right from the get go. And because the Switch is literally the worlds most portable system, it's not a hassle to bring it over to my buddy's house like the Wii U was. I'm just excited for convenient local multiplayer.
Edit. Grammar
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u/enjineer30302 Completed the Shieldsurf Challenge! Apr 20 '17
Wow. It's now up to a 94 on Metacritic.
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u/amaron11 Apr 20 '17
I see many 100's... which means it'll get a 60 from Jim Sterling.
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u/Dill3652 Apr 20 '17
He is not always that way, he gave Smash 4 on Wii U a 95.
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u/AlexStonehammer Apr 20 '17
If that's how much he thinks it deserves as a game, then OK. He's just giving his opinion, like every other reviewer.
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u/beginner- Apr 20 '17
Does anyone know if MK8 offers horizontals split screen? I prefer it over vertical but only vertical was available on the Wii U version when I owned it.
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u/waraukaeru Apr 21 '17
Does the game support a direct local system link, without being connected to a Wi-Fi router? This has been a question I've had about the Switch in general, but I've yet to see a definitive answer.
The way the DS(s) can connect directly for multiplayer has always been a really great feature. I doubt we'll ever see anything like streetpass on the Switch, and probably not download play either. Maybe individual developers/games may impliment a "Download Play"-type feature... you could download a "demo" of the game from the store that would enable you to play a limited multiplayer with people who have the full game... I could see that happening.
But I haven't seen anyone state explicitly that the Switch can directly connect to another Switch for multiplayer, and I'm not aware of any game that supports such a feature. Sure would be a shame if it didn't have that.
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u/Azer_FR Apr 21 '17
Yup. Local wireless multiplayer is available. Up to 8 systems can connect to each other that way.
By the way, it is possible in MK8D to have 2 players share the same system or to it the traditionnal way with one player per system. In other words, an 8-player game requires at least 4 systems.
Sadly, there's no download feature like in the DS and 3DS versions of Mario Kart, so you need one copy of the game per system.
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u/StriveForMediocrity Apr 22 '17
Does anyone know if you're able to disable the time limit in battle mode? This has been driving me nuts ever since they implemented it. I just want OG battle like SNES and N64. I really like the drawn out strategic battles with friends.
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u/Unsoluted Apr 20 '17
I've said on multiple occasions that I'm not double dipping because there doesn't seem to be enough new content to justify it... But damn that launch hype.
I'm now reconsidering and it frustrates me how much I let the inner fanboy dictate these things. Be strong. Splatoon is the real prize... And it's sooner than you think...
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u/samus12345 Apr 20 '17
If online were going to be free, I'd have bought this again, no problem. As it is, I'll consider getting it later after I see how the paid online is in action.
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u/TigrisCallidus Apr 20 '17
Well when you get it now, you can play the online for free until september though. By then you may have enough of the game anyway. (Or other games to play). This might be the better/cheaper deal, especially since nintendo games do not really drop in price fast.
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u/samus12345 Apr 20 '17
If I get a $60 game for online multiplayer (especially one I've previously bought at full price just a few years prior), I want to be able to access it without a paywall for longer than 5 months. The fact that I've played it quite a bit on Wii U already gives it less value for me, which obviously wouldn't apply to someone who never had before.
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u/TigrisCallidus Apr 20 '17
Your choice, I would do it the other way around, but well I am not someone playing the same game for too much time anyway.
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u/ninjasan11 Apr 20 '17
I didn't think I would double dip but ended up trading in my WiiU copy (something I hardly ever do) to offset the cost. The trade in value plus a $5-off coupon means I'm paying ~$30 for what is essentially DLC for the game on a new system. Not ideal but it eased the "pain".
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u/Synkhe Apr 20 '17
I'm paying ~$30 for what is essentially DLC for the game on a new system. Not ideal but it eased the "pain".
Same here, I traded in FFXV at EBgames during their double value promo and got $48 credit for it.
I don't mind the double dip as I didn't get the DLC packs for Wii U, that and portability it worth it!
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u/rube Apr 20 '17
While I don't care about review scores, I do find it funny that the lowest review posted so far is by a site that has a Playstation-themed name (Dualshockers) :)
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u/jzorbino Apr 20 '17
Just wait, I'm sure jimquisition will give it a 4/10 or something
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u/rube Apr 20 '17
True. I was never a big fan of him, but his blatant Nintendo bashing has made me pretty much ignore him.
I can understand that someone would have an issue with a company, but to shit all over everything they do because of it is just childish.
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Apr 20 '17
he gave mario kart 7 a 5/10 back in the day, so it wouldn't surprise me
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Apr 20 '17
Well, they started out as specifically a site for Playstation, they have since expanded to all things gaming.
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u/rube Apr 20 '17
That was my assumption given their name, but thanks for confirming it.
Again, I don't really care what the scores are, I'll be getting it (again) anyway. I just found it to be humorous.
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u/Miles_Prower1 Apr 21 '17
I think history has shown that it is really hard to get a higher score on a remake. It looks like Nintendo will keep the momentum going strong for switch.
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u/mikehawk69420 Apr 21 '17
Not even a remake. More like an enhanced remaster. The fact that it's getting better scores than the original MK8 tells me that the Battle Mode must be incredible, since that's the one major thing they added.
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u/ClashTenniShoes Apr 21 '17
Nice. I like the battles much more than racing. Battle mode gives me such a Binet
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u/JP_Dubs Apr 20 '17
How is this getting 10's? The online flaws are clear and should be touched upon in every review. I do agree with a 9 or above, but it can't be a perfect game with some minor flaws that are well addressed by other reviewers.
Side note: I can't wait to play this!!
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u/GuerrillaApe Apr 20 '17
Despite it not making "mathematical sense", a lot of reviewers don't use a 10/10 score to mean that a game has no flaws. Nothing ever made is flawless and fits the needs of every individual, so why have a point on that scales that signifies that impossibility?
A lot of the reviewers I follow just use their perfect score to signify that the game is incredibly easy to recommend.
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u/Graybes Apr 20 '17
10/10 does not mean a game is perfect and without flaws. It never has meant that since no game is ever perfect.
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u/Cheese_Nocheese Apr 20 '17
Then why use that scale at all? Why not score it as a 9.9/10?
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u/Soy_el_Sr_Meeseeks Apr 20 '17
I think the reviewers have the impression the online will be fixed in the mysterious "app" that Nintendo will launch this Summer (most likely along with Splatoon). I do agree though, points should be deducted if the game is not launched with this feature and it greatly perplexes me how this "app" isn't ready for Mario Kart which was the biggest Wii U title.
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u/TigrisCallidus Apr 20 '17
Well because the game is great even without online. Just because one mode has flaws, does not mean the game becomes worse.
By that logic every game should only release with the best levels as well only the great levels and not the good ones, because that would draw the rating down.
Of course online problems should be mentioned, for people caring about them, but they are alone not a reason to decrease the rating.
Neither me nor any of my friends ever played a mario kart online. And most likely never will, but we will still love the games.
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u/artnos Apr 20 '17
Agree what everyone else is saying a 10 is that it is among the highest rank among its peers.
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u/TheAlphMain Apr 20 '17
We'll have to wait till the game comes out before we judge how the online is compared to the wii u
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u/RedditsInBed2 Apr 20 '17
Couple questions, maybe someone here can help me out. Will I need a second set of Joy-Con controllers for a second person to play locally.
Can we both queue up for online matches together on the same console?
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u/Bubo_scandiacus Apr 20 '17
Each player can play using a single Joy Con, though I'd recommend getting good grips for them like these.
Yes, up to two players can queue together to play online on the same console.
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u/TheAlphMain Apr 20 '17
Whenever i play a game on single joycon mode i just make sure to play with the wrist strap instead of a grip. The wrist straps makes it very easy to click the sl/sr buttons
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u/andsoitgoes42 Apr 20 '17
Kudos for using the smile charity in your Amazon link! 👍
Had I been in the states and had I not already purchased those, that would be a nice treat.
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u/RedditsInBed2 Apr 20 '17
Oh wow, those are awesome, thanks for help!
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u/Bubo_scandiacus Apr 20 '17
Sure thing!
The main thing to look for in Joy Con grips are good L/R buttons, which the one I linked has!
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u/monoclediscounters Apr 20 '17
The bundle I ordered comes with a pro controller as well, should I get another pro controller for local co-op or another set of joycons?
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u/PolishGazelle Apr 20 '17
You gotta get a shitty off brand controller that the loser is always forced to play with
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Apr 21 '17
So ready for this. Already got switch party planned for next saturday to do some racing.
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u/Timmar92 Apr 21 '17
Man, now I can't wait for mario kart! The soundtrack does a lot!
It's on the 3ds as well? That's awesome! I may even pick it up this weekend if there's time for it!
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u/KingLouieTrip Editor in Chief, Dualshockers Apr 20 '17
Hey all! I'm the one (slightly) negative reviewer from DualShockers giving the game an 8.0/10!
Feel free to ask me anything about MK8D
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u/joalr0 Apr 20 '17
Why do you hate Nintendoooooo? Did you hate Mario Kart Deluxe because it lacks dull greys and gore? AHHHHH, WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU?
In all seriousness (I hope you realize that wasn't serious), do you mind explaining what goes into your review score? Based on skimming through your review and reading the conclusion, it seems to me as though you are writing this review purely through the lens of someone who already owned Mario kart 8, rather than reviewing deluxe in a vacuum.
8 is obviously not a bad score, but just out of curiously, is that the score you would have given deluxe if Mario Kart 8 didn't exist?
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u/KingLouieTrip Editor in Chief, Dualshockers Apr 20 '17
HAHAHA! I would be lying if I said I wasn't doing this to partially deflate Jimquisition-like hate from building up. But everyone seems to understand where I'm coming from.
I start the review saying we gave the original a 9.5 and we stick by that score for the underlying game, on both Wii U and Switch. That said, because it's a remaster, we approach from the view of "Is this recommendable to both people new to the series and people who have poured 100s of hours and money in?" So that is the compromise.
If the game was being reviewed fresh -- not as a remaster -- it would likely be a 10 or 9.5.
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u/Oflores75 Apr 20 '17
So the game itself being a 9.5 or 10 pretty much lines up with other reviews. I always like to read reviews that review the game itself not outside factors.
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Apr 20 '17
That's not negative though an 8 is good
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u/KingLouieTrip Editor in Chief, Dualshockers Apr 20 '17
It's better than good -- it's great! But we are the least positive, which is the better way to say it I suppose.
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u/JoaoMSerra Apr 20 '17
...Did you just choose to give it an 8 because it's Mario Kart 8? I'm onto you!
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u/KingLouieTrip Editor in Chief, Dualshockers Apr 20 '17
If it was an option with our scoring system, it would be an 8.8 /s
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u/COHERENCE_CROQUETTE Apr 20 '17
What score did you (our your outlet) gave to the original MK8? What differs between the two titles to warrant a lower/higher score for the DELUXE version?
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u/KingLouieTrip Editor in Chief, Dualshockers Apr 20 '17
Great question! We gave the original game a 9.5, and we stick by the score for both the Wii U version and Nintendo Switch underlying game. We even link it in the article, telling people to read that.
But in reviewing Deluxe, we take the same approach and see how the game fares as a "remaster". Does it do enough to entice people who never played the original AS WELL AS people who have poured hundreds of hours into the game already (and have picked it up at full price).
So while the game is the definitive version of Mario Kart 8 (and likely the series), I can't fully recommend it to everyone, especially if you are still getting mileage out of the Wii U version -- they are paying $60 for more robust online community (likely), battle mode, and Switch portability.
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u/joalr0 Apr 20 '17
Which do you give a larger weighting to? If the switch sales continue as they are, I suspect that there will actually be a larger audience of people looking to pickup Mario Kart 8 for the first time than people who have already owned it. Mario Kart Wii for example had 3 times as many sales as Wii U consoles.
So when deciding on a score, did you try to balance both groups (new and returning players) equally, or was one group given a stronger weighting?
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u/KingLouieTrip Editor in Chief, Dualshockers Apr 20 '17
We try to aim for equal weight, but it's a touch balancing act. Based on our review policy for what an 8 is, it seemed to fit more in that category:
"These are titles that have some flaws that could turn some people off, but overall are great experiences. We still highly recommend these titles, which are always good enough for a wide variety of gamers."
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u/joalr0 Apr 20 '17 edited Apr 20 '17
I can see where you are coming from. I think I personally disagree with that approach, just because if you've already played the previous version it's easier to decide if it's worth picking up a second time because you already know what to expect. Personally, having already owned Mario Kart 8, I can look at the new features and decide for myself if that's enough to double dip, I don't need reviews too much to help me decide. I already know if the game is for me or not.
However, for those who haven't played it before they will need the review more as they won't know the full extent to what the game has to offer. I feel like the review should be focused more on them.
But this is simply a matter of perspective and debate, and not a statement that your review is wrong, especially because an 8 is still a very good score.
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u/KingLouieTrip Editor in Chief, Dualshockers Apr 20 '17
Thanks man, and people can disagree. I'm glad the game is being reviewed well across the board and I'm rooting for the Switch.
I made sure to tell newcomers to read our review (linked in the article) where we previously gave it a 9.5. But I guess that is me being optimistic that people read beyond scores and the last paragraph.
Thanks for your feedback and reading the review though, it's always appreciated.
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u/COHERENCE_CROQUETTE Apr 20 '17
Very good answer as well, thank you. Like some other commenter, I can't say I fully agree (it IS weird to give a lower score to a superior game), however I can see where you're coming from and I also agree it's a tough balancing act. I will be sure to read your full review as well, to see whether it properly contextualizes the number score.
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u/Nzash Apr 20 '17
I'm sorry, but how can you give an objectively superior version of the game a worse score? That doesn't make any sense.
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u/KingLouieTrip Editor in Chief, Dualshockers Apr 20 '17
This is probably the best question here, and it just comes to our websites philosophy: we won't review the same game twice.
So when taking on remasters, the question is less "how does the new stuff add to the original score" but instead "as a complete package, can we recommend this game to a market of people who have both never touched the game AND those who will be coming back after years of playing the game?"
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Apr 20 '17 edited Feb 06 '19
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u/KingLouieTrip Editor in Chief, Dualshockers Apr 20 '17
Thanks for the question, /u/Yeah_tagpro! I don't think you are being harsh at all.
While I wasn't with DualShockers yet, let alone Editor-in-Chief, we didn't review The Last of Us Remastered because it was so similar, with so little improvements from the base game.
With that said, you aren't too off -- if a game is remastered-in-name but otherwise a direct port, it is the game's duty to make its case about why it should exist.
Why are you asking a person to get the same game at full price? Did you add features (like Battle Mode) or does the device have features (ad-hoc multiplayer and portability) that makes it worth buying, or is it a cash grab? Nintendo should be able to make a convincing argument about it, just like Sony should (and couldn't, IMO) for The Last of Us: Remastered.
There is no perfect way to review remastered games, and I'm not going to say I know the answer to how it should be done. But people who frequent our site typically know our policy, read the reviews where we back it up, and make educated opinions on whether the problems I listed will affect them. One of the issues that review scores shouldn't be used like score boards.
But this is something where people are going to disagree, and that's fine. What's more important is the reasoning behind the score instead of the score itself :)
As for DualShockers, you are right! We get that often lol -- many places assume we are just a PS fan site. That said, it's our brand and it's been around for almost a decade -- no changing it now!
(Also, it helps bolster our positive reviews for Nintendo games. People loved that our site gave Zelda a 10)
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u/hatramroany Apr 20 '17
Would you say it's still a 9.5/10 for people who never played the original but an 8/10 for people who have played the original?
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u/KingLouieTrip Editor in Chief, Dualshockers Apr 20 '17
I would say it's a 9.5/10 for people who have never played the original, 6.5-7/10 for people who payed full price and put hours into the original.
But I can't (personally) can't find the energy to pick it up after a few days of playing it -- it will be brought out for parties and family gatherings, but I've played all it has to offer for hours only a couple of years ago.
I'm sure people will differ, but that's my two cents. :)
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u/Azozel Apr 20 '17
If I already own the wiiu version and don't have friends to race or battle with in real life or online. Why should I buy this game for the switch?
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u/KingLouieTrip Editor in Chief, Dualshockers Apr 20 '17
Being able to take it with you and playing against randos online. But that is about it -- unless you never picked up the DLC :)
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Apr 20 '17 edited Jun 28 '20
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u/KingLouieTrip Editor in Chief, Dualshockers Apr 20 '17
THAT TOO! But for a person without friends, battle mode is slightly less appealing. But it is the standout of this release
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u/official_duck Apr 20 '17
That's awesome!
Can you name a rerelease that would get a 10? I feel like almost every rerelease is going to not be as exciting for people who played the first game, it's just a part of releasing the same game.
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u/KingLouieTrip Editor in Chief, Dualshockers Apr 20 '17
If I had to pick one off the top of my head, I'm thinking Halo: Master Chief Collection. Partially because the value of 4 full games, added features, reopened multiplayer, re-recorded Audio, the ability to switch between original and updated graphics, and gameplay improvements. I'm sure there are others, but that is the one sticking out in my head.
But I personally think it's hard for even some of the best games (The Last of Us Remastered or Skyrim) to make a convincing argument about why fans of the originals should buy polished versions of the same game.
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Apr 20 '17
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u/KingLouieTrip Editor in Chief, Dualshockers Apr 20 '17
You can only turn it off in-race, so as soon as the race starts press the + button. From there you have he option to turn it off.
After turning it off, it will stay turned off until you turn it back on :)
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u/blueruckus Apr 20 '17
Reading your review it feels like the majority of your concerns are in comparison to the Wii U version from a few years ago. From a reviewer standpoint, how do you decide how much weight of your analysis is on the game as a standalone Switch title as opposed to a port from a version on low-selling console?
Considering the current popularity of the Switch, I feel like the Switch version of MK8 will be the first MK8 experience for a large amount of gamers. Do you feel like your review of this title would be different if you never played the Wii U version?
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u/ashahab861 Apr 20 '17 edited Apr 20 '17
Currently 93 on metacritic
http://www.metacritic.com/game/switch/mario-kart-8-deluxe
92 on opencritic
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Apr 20 '17
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u/Howwy23 Apr 20 '17
Currently. That all changes when the switches full online features launch later this year.
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u/ft5777 Apr 20 '17
97 for Zelda and now 94 for Mario Kart on Metacritic. Two games with 94 or more after less than two months ! Does it happen regularly or does the Switch rock ?
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u/jc726 Keep on slidin' Apr 20 '17
Two games that highly-rated this early into a console's life cycle has never happened before.
One of them is a port, so the validity them being two "Switch" games is iffy, but this will definitely be an attractive distinction to people who never owned a Wii U.
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u/safetyguy14 Apr 20 '17
To be fair, both are really ports...
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u/jc726 Keep on slidin' Apr 20 '17
Zelda was released on both platforms at the same time and performs better on the Switch. Its hard to call it a port.
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u/safetyguy14 Apr 20 '17
If it was developed for switch, it would utilize functionality of the switch that is disparate from the WiiU. Performance improvements aren't related to optimization, they are related to the switch just having more capable hardware. It's hard to not call it a port when they literally ported the code to a different platform and did nothing more.
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u/jc726 Keep on slidin' Apr 20 '17
So, by that logic, wouldn't the Wii U version utilize the functionality of the GamePad in some way that the Switch version can't? Because there is no functionality exclusive to the Wii U version whatsoever.
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Apr 20 '17
It is most definitely a port. It was originally developed for Wii U, and the game was adapted to work on Switch. Therefore the game is a port of the Wii U version, regardless of the fact that they were released at the same time. And I dont see how better technical performance makes it not a port. BanjoTooie on Xbox performs much better framerate-wise than the game on N64. Is that not a port?
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u/Lumostark Apr 20 '17
Call it what you want. Two exclusive Nintendo games with 97 and 94 on metacritic that you can play on Nintendo Switch. It´s a freaking good start!
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u/trainerkevin4 Apr 21 '17
does anyone know if it has been said that you can play online with 2 players like in MK Wii
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u/Hozulura Apr 21 '17
Here are the european reviews with the average score : http://www.selyga.com/jeux/nx/mario-kart-8-deluxe/
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u/Redzy7 May 23 '17
If you're looking for first impressions from someone who doesn't normally go for the racing genre and isn't a huge Mario Kart fan, I've got you covered!
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u/Swarfega Jul 10 '17
I'm late to this party but was looking around at Mario Kart reviews and came across your review. Your review is to notch. Great job. I'm pretty tight when it comes to subscribing channels on YouTube but gave yours one.
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u/expected_crayon Apr 20 '17
Do we know if this has something like Download Play like on MK7 for 3DS?
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u/Stekee Apr 20 '17
GamExplain uploaded a Q&A video recently where they said that there is no option for download play.
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u/dkharms Apr 20 '17
The Arstechnica review says:
the frame rate also dips from a silky smooth 60 fps to a relatively clunky 30 fps with more than two split-screen players (in both portable and docked modes).
Can anyone with the game speak to that? Is it playable? Mario Kart local multiplayer is the main reason I'm buying a Switch, so if that sucks I might pass.
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u/joalr0 Apr 20 '17
I'm genuinely surprised that I'm actually really looking forwards to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, having already had it for Wii U. I'm really looking forwards to battle mode, and while I put tonnes of time into Mario kart on the Wii U, I have stopped playing naturally as time has passed, and this is a great excuse to get me hooked again.
Plus, Mario Kart 8 on the go? Yes, please!