Today, Nintendo released a free software update for the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe video game for the Nintendo Switch. This update lets players use the Toy-Con Motorbike from the Nintendo Labo: Variety Kit to control their in-game vehicles. The immersive and interactive controller, which makes players feel like they’re in the driver’s seat, is compatible with every game mode with every vehicle type.
After downloading the update for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, simply select the “Nintendo Labo” icon on the game’s title screen to access a menu where you can select Toy-Con as the control type. When racing, turning the handlebars changes direction, twisting the right handlebar accelerates, and the various Joy-Con buttons are used for items, brakes, and drifting. Up to four players can play at the same time with Toy-Con Motorbike with their own Toy-Con and Joy-Con controllers.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the first game outside of Nintendo Labo software to receive Toy-Con support, but Nintendo says more titles will be compatible with Nintendo Labo in the future.
But wait, Labo owners, there’s more! Nintendo also announced the categories for the second Nintendo Labo Creators Contest: “Best Gaming Experience using Toy-Con Garage” and “Best Toy-Con Musical Instrument.”
Fans who submit creations to either of these categories have the opportunity to win limited-edition prizes, including a specially designed, collectible cardboard-inspired Nintendo Switch system. Fans in the U.S. or Canada (excluding Quebec) ages 13 and up can enter their creations in the Nintendo Labo Creators Contest No. 2.
