Fanboys Anonymous

Nintendo is still wet behind the ears when it comes to including downloadable content for their big AAA releases. Regardless, you can rest assured that Mario Kart 8's first batch of DLC is extremely well done.

In total, Mario Kart 8 features two DLC packs: the first has just been recently released, while a second will be released in May of 2015. The first pack includes three new drivers, four new vehicles, and two new cups featuring eight new tracks.

Perhaps the most popular feature of this DLC pack is one of the new characters, Link from the Legend of Zelda franchise. This will be Link's first foray into Mario's crazy kart-riding antics, and it's safe to say that he fits in surprisingly well. Hearing Link excitedly yell in pure joy when performing tricks off of ramps or exclaiming cautiously when he's gliding through the air is something that will strike long-time Zelda fans as both jarring and satisfying.

Link is also accompanied by his own vehicle, known as the Master Cycle, which brandishes Hylian shields on either side and a horse motif. Not only that, but Link gets a whole track—no, a whole cup devoted to him in the form of the Triforce Cup. The tracks included in this are Wario's Gold Mine from Mario Kart Wii, Rainbow Road from Super Mario Kart, Ice Ice Outpost, and of course, Hyrule Circuit.

Check out this video to see Link, the Master Cycle, and the Triforce Cup in action:


Just when you think you've had enough DLC from the pack already, there's more! Tanooki Mario and Cat Peach make appearances as well. The following vehicles are also available: the Tanooki Kart, B Dasher, and Blue Falcon (on loan from Captain Falcon of F-Zero fame).

Joining the Triforce Cup is another new cup: the Egg Cup. This includes Yoshi Circuit from Mario Kart: Double Dash, Excitebike Arena (paying homage to the old NES classic), Dragon Driftway, and Mute City from the F-Zero franchise. Check out the videos below to see those in action!




Have you gotten the chance to try out this DLC pack for Mario Kart 8 yet? What are your thoughts on it? Let us know in the comments!

Mario Kart 8 is available exclusively for the Wii U. DLC Pack 1 is available now, while DLC Pack 2 will be available in May of 2015, both priced at $7.99. Pre-purchasing both packs in a bundle for $11.99 will allow players access to new Yoshi and Shy Guy alternate character colors.

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