You can’t unlock Sonic in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: Nintendo’s published character information does not include him or describe a way to add him. The game’s official roster has 42 characters, and the Booster Course Pass adds eight more—but none is Sonic.
Is Sonic in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?
No. Nintendo’s official Mario Kart 8 Deluxe site says the game has 42 characters to choose from. Nintendo’s Booster Course Pass FAQ names the eight playable characters added through the pass, and Sonic is not among them. Nintendo does not publish a Sonic unlock method.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
NINTENDO Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Switch | $58.90 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code] | $59.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (Nintendo Switch) (European Version) | $43.44 | Buy on Amazon |
Which characters does the Booster Course Pass add?
The pass adds Birdo, Kamek, Petey Piranha, Wiggler, Funky Kong, Diddy Kong, Pauline, and Peachette. It does not add Sonic, so buying the pass or meeting an in-game challenge will not unlock him.
What do you need to play the Booster Course Pass content?
Nintendo says you need the full game to play the pass content. The pass is available to purchase or through a paid Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership. See Nintendo’s instructions for accessing Booster Course Pass content for the access details. These options provide the pass’s courses and characters, not Sonic.
Quick Recap
Rank #3
- With Nintendo Switch, fans can enjoy the definitive version of Mario Kart 8 anywhere, anytime
- The Mario Kart you know and love, with many new features; Enjoy Mario Kart alone or with friends, anytime, anywhere, with anyone; Supports 2 players in Handheld mode, 4 players on one TV and 12-player online
- 5 exclusive new characters join the tournament, including Inkling Boy and Inkling Girl; 4 exclusive new multiplayer Battle Modes including Balloon Battle and Bob-omb Blast; 48 Tracks; 40+ Racers; It's the biggest Mario Kart roster ever; All downloadable content from the Wii U version included as standard
- Compatible with the Nintendo Switch only
- EU version
Rank #2
- Hit the road with the definitive version of Mario Kart 8 and play anytime, anywhere! Race your friends or battle them in a revised battle mode on new and returning battle courses
- Play locally in up to 4-player multiplayer in 1080p while playing in TV Mode. Every track from the Wii U version, including DLC, makes a glorious return
- Plus, the Inklings appear as all-new guest characters, along with returning favorites, such as King Boo, Dry Bones, and Bowser Jr.
- Players can choose a new Smart Steering feature which makes driving and staying on the track easy for novice players and kids even at 200cc
#1 Best Overall
- With Nintendo Switch, fans can enjoy the definitive version of Mario Kart 8 anywhere, anytime
- the Mario Kart you know and love, with many new features
- Enjoy Mario Kart alone or with friends, anytime, anywhere, with anyone
- Supports 2 players in handheld mode, 4 players on one TV and 12-player online
- 5 exclusive new characters join the tournament, including Inkling Boy and Inkling girl.4 exclusive new multiplayer battle modes including Balloon battle and Bob-omb blast.48 tracks.40+ racers.It's the biggest Mario Kart roster ever.all downloadable content from the Wii U version included as standard Compatible with the Nintendo Switch only
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.




