Mario Kart 8 Deluxe -NSP- Booster Course Wave 1 represents the opening chapter of the most ambitious DLC plan in Mario Kart history. While graphically imperfect, it introduced eight fun, nostalgic tracks that laid the groundwork for 40 more.
Whether you are a standard Switch owner downloading it via the eShop or a CFW user managing your NSP library, Wave 1 is essential. It turned Mario Kart 8 Deluxe from a "definitive edition" into a "live service" juggernaut that continues to dominate sales charts years after release.
Download Warning: Always verify NSP checksums (MD5/SHA) before installation to avoid corrupted data or Switch bans. Enjoy the race!
Q: Do I need the Base Game to play the NSP? A: Yes. The Wave 1 NSP is only a DLC add-on. You need the base Mario Kart 8 Deluxe NSP or cartridge installed first.
Q: Can I play Wave 1 offline? A: Yes. Once the NSP is installed to the system memory or SD card, you do not need an internet connection to race on Paris Promenade or Ninja Hideaway.
Q: Is the Wave 1 NSP included in the "Update 2.0.0"? A: No. Update 2.0.0 contained the underlying engine changes. The Wave 1 DLC NSP is a separate file containing the actual track data.
Q: Does Wave 1 support 200cc? A: Absolutely. All Wave 1 tracks are fully playable in 200cc, Mirror Mode, and Time Trials. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe -NSP--Booster Course Wave 1...
The Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Booster Course Pass Wave 1 , released on March 18, 2022, serves as the debut entry for a massive 48-track expansion. While it successfully revitalizes the 2017 title with much-needed fresh content, its visual presentation and technical execution compared to the base game received mixed feedback from reviewers. Included Tracks and Cups
Wave 1 introduces eight remastered tracks from previous franchise entries, divided into two new cups:
Revisiting Classics: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Booster Course Wave 1
After years of standard races, Nintendo finally expanded the horizons of its best-selling title with the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Booster Course Pass . Wave 1, which launched on March 18, 2022
, served as the opening act for a massive 48-track expansion plan. The Tracks: A Mix of Mobile and Memories
Wave 1 introduces eight remastered courses split across two new cups. Interestingly, a significant portion of these tracks made their console debut after originating in the mobile game, Mario Kart Tour Golden Dash Cup Paris Promenade (Tour): Mario Kart 8 Deluxe -NSP- Booster Course Wave
A standout city track where the route actually changes on the final lap, sending you backward through familiar territory. Toad Circuit (3DS):
A straightforward, beginner-friendly track from the Nintendo 3DS era. Choco Mountain (N64):
A major glow-up from the Nintendo 64 version, featuring new cave sections and glider ramps. Coconut Mall (Wii):
The fan-favorite returns! While it lacks the moving cars at the finish line found in the original, the iconic music and mall layout remain intact. Lucky Cat Cup Tokyo Blur (Tour):
Another city track that shifts routes each lap to keep racers on their toes. Shroom Ridge (DS):
A bustling traffic-filled mountain pass that brings back a hit of DS nostalgia. Sky Garden (GBA): Q: Do I need the Base Game to play the NSP
A reimagined version of the classic Game Boy Advance course, updated with modern verticality. Ninja Hideaway (Tour):
Considered a highlight of the wave, this track is packed with multiple elevations and hidden shortcuts. How to Access the New Courses
You don't necessarily need to buy the pass to see these tracks. Here are the three ways to play: Standalone Purchase: Buy the full Booster Course Pass for $24.99 on the Nintendo eShop to own all 48 tracks forever. NSO + Expansion Pack: Subscribers to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack
gain access to the DLC at no additional cost for the duration of their membership. Playing with Friends:
Even if you don't own the DLC, you can race on these tracks if you join a friend's online lobby who does. Final Thoughts
While some fans noted that the visual style of Wave 1 feels slightly different—less "realistic" and more "clean" than the base game—the sheer volume of content is hard to beat. It’s a great reason to dust off your kart and get back to the starting line.
Before proceeding, note that this guide assumes you already have a legitimate copy of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe or are using custom firmware (CFW) on your Switch. Piracy harms developers. Always dump your own NSP files if possible.