Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Expansion Pack: Cost Breakdown
Hey there, fellow racers! Ready to dive into the thrilling world of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and all its amazing content? One of the biggest questions on everyone's mind is: how much does the expansion pack actually cost? Let's break it down in detail so you know exactly what you're getting and how to get it without breaking the bank.
Understanding the Booster Course Pass
First off, let's clarify what we're talking about. The expansion we're focusing on is officially called the Booster Course Pass. This pass gives you access to a whopping 48 additional courses, effectively doubling the number of tracks available in the base game. These aren't just any tracks, either; they're a mix of remastered classics from previous Mario Kart games and brand-new courses designed to keep you on the edge of your seat. The Booster Course Pass injects fresh life into Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, offering countless hours of new racing experiences. It’s like getting a whole new game for a fraction of the price, and it’s definitely a worthwhile investment for any Mario Kart enthusiast.
The Booster Course Pass is delivered in waves, with each wave bringing a set of new courses to enjoy. This staggered release keeps the game feeling fresh and exciting, giving players something to look forward to regularly. Each wave typically includes eight courses, divided into two cups, ensuring there's plenty of variety to keep you engaged. This approach not only extends the lifespan of the game but also creates a sense of community as players discuss and explore each new track together. Whether you're drifting through the neon-lit streets of Tokyo Blur or navigating the treacherous turns of Coconut Mall, there’s always something new to discover with the Booster Course Pass. And with 48 courses in total, you're guaranteed to find plenty of tracks that you'll love and want to race on again and again.
The Direct Cost of the Booster Course Pass
Okay, let's get straight to the numbers. The Booster Course Pass has a direct purchase price. You can usually find it listed on the Nintendo eShop for around $24.99 USD. Keep in mind that prices might slightly vary depending on your region due to currency conversion rates and local taxes, but that's the general ballpark. For that price, you unlock all 48 courses as they become available, which is a fantastic deal when you consider how much content you're getting. It's a one-time payment, so once you've bought it, you own those courses forever, ready to race on whenever you fire up Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. This option is perfect for those who prefer to own their content outright and don't want to worry about subscription fees. Plus, it's a great way to support Nintendo and ensure they continue to bring us awesome content like this in the future. Think of it as an investment in endless hours of fun and friendly competition with your friends and family.
The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack Option
Now, here's where things get interesting. Nintendo offers a subscription service called Nintendo Switch Online, which allows you to play games online, access a library of classic NES and SNES games, and use cloud saves. But they also have a premium tier called Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. This enhanced membership includes everything from the base subscription, plus access to Nintendo 64 and Game Boy Advance games, and, you guessed it, the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Booster Course Pass!
The cost for Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack is higher than the standard Nintendo Switch Online subscription. A 12-month individual membership typically costs around $49.99 USD, while a 12-month family membership (which covers up to eight accounts) is around $79.99 USD. So, if you're already paying for Nintendo Switch Online and are interested in the other benefits of the Expansion Pack, this could be a more cost-effective way to get the Booster Course Pass. However, keep in mind that your access to the Booster Course Pass courses is tied to your subscription. If your subscription lapses, you'll lose access to the courses until you renew your membership. This is a crucial factor to consider when deciding which option is best for you. If you plan on playing Mario Kart 8 Deluxe for a long time, the direct purchase might be a better long-term investment.
Comparing the Costs
Let's break down a quick comparison to help you decide:
- Booster Course Pass (Direct Purchase): $24.99 USD - You own the courses forever.
- Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack (Individual): $49.99 USD/year - Access to the Booster Course Pass, N64, and GBA games, plus online play and other benefits. Access is contingent upon active subscription.
- Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack (Family): $79.99 USD/year - Same benefits as individual, but for up to eight accounts. Access is contingent upon active subscription.
If you primarily just want the extra Mario Kart courses and don't care about the other games or online features, the direct purchase is the most economical choice. However, if you're already paying for Nintendo Switch Online or are interested in the expanded library of classic games, the Expansion Pack could be a great value. Especially if you have a family, the family plan is an excellent deal, providing access to all the benefits for multiple users at a reasonable price.
Other Factors to Consider
Beyond the direct costs, there are a few other things you might want to think about before making your decision.
How Often Do You Play?
If you're a Mario Kart fanatic and play regularly, either option is likely worth the investment. The Booster Course Pass will keep the game fresh and exciting for months, if not years, to come. However, if you only play occasionally, you might want to weigh whether the cost is justified. Consider how much time you realistically spend racing each week or month. If you're only playing a few hours here and there, the direct purchase might be the more sensible option, as you'll have permanent access to the courses without the ongoing subscription fee.
Online Play
If you enjoy playing Mario Kart 8 Deluxe online with friends or other players around the world, you'll need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription regardless. In that case, upgrading to the Expansion Pack might be a no-brainer, as you're already paying for the base online service. The added cost of the Expansion Pack is relatively small compared to the benefits you receive, including the Booster Course Pass and the expanded library of classic games. Online play adds a whole new dimension to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, allowing you to test your skills against players from all over the globe and compete in thrilling races.
Family Sharing
As mentioned earlier, the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack family plan is an excellent value for families with multiple Switch users. For a relatively small increase in price compared to the individual plan, up to eight accounts can enjoy all the benefits, including online play, cloud saves, and access to the Booster Course Pass and classic games. This is a great way to share the cost and ensure that everyone in the family can enjoy the full Mario Kart 8 Deluxe experience. Plus, it makes it easy to organize family racing tournaments and compete against each other on all the new and classic tracks.
Conclusion
So, what's the bottom line? The cost of the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Expansion Pack depends on how you choose to access it. The direct purchase of $24.99 gives you permanent access to all 48 courses, while the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack offers a broader range of benefits, including the Booster Course Pass, for a recurring subscription fee. Consider your gaming habits, online play preferences, and whether you have a family to share the cost with when making your decision.
Ultimately, the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Booster Course Pass is a fantastic addition to an already amazing game. Whether you opt for the direct purchase or the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, you're in for countless hours of racing fun. So, buckle up, choose your kart, and get ready to hit the track!