Video Gamer is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Prices subject to change. Learn more
There are two types of Mario Kart 8 players. The first type doesn’t care much about winning and plays to enjoy the game more than anything. They like playing characters that they either like or think look cool and don’t give the statistics a second thought.
The second type of players, however, are the ones this list is made for. They’re the ones who take any advantage they can, regardless of how small it might be, to ensure that when they’re on the race track, they leave everyone in their dust.
NOW READ: Check Out All The Hot Deals At Green Man Gaming – 15% OFF Selected PC Games
To help them in doing this, we’ve compiled a list of the seven best characters in Mario Kart 8 according to professional competitive Mario Kart players, as well as why those characters deserve to be there. Any one of these characters can be used to absolutely decimate the competition.
Nintendo Switch Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Bundle
Nintendo Switch Lite 32GB Refurbished Console Blue
7. Morton
Coming up at number 7 is a character many Mario fans but not even know about. Being first introduced in Super Mario Bros 3, this underling of the King Koopa, Bowser, is one of the top heavyweight characters in the game.
The biggest reason for this is Morton’s speed, which goes above and beyond what is to be expected from an underling when it’s at its best. In addition, his acceleration is also fairly good which allows him to reach his top speed quickly.
Unfortunately, because of his weight, his handling leaves a lot to be desired, though with the right builds he’s definitely a monster on the race track.
6: Donkey Kong
Who doesn’t know the one that started it all, Donkey Kong? Being Mario’s enemy since the old Donkey Kong games, Mr. Kong has been a fan favorite in the Mario Kart games for years now, and Mario Kart 8 is no different.
While Donkey Kong is on the slower side, the top way to play this character is by first getting the lead by maintaining a steady speed and avoiding water or anything else that might slow you down, and then using his incredible weight and strength to do wherever it takes to keep it.
In addition, Donkey Kong really weighs down his kart because of him being a heavyweight character, so be sure to select the right wheels when keeping that in mind.
5: Waluigi
Smash might have forgotten about Waluigi, but we sure didn’t. Being the polar opposite of Luigi, Waluigi has been a consistent character in the Mario franchise, and a fan favorite when it comes to the spin off games.
In Mario Kart 8, Waluigi has average acceleration and a fairly good top speed, because of which it’s recommended you focus on his acceleration when putting together a build for him. When off road, his handling becomes extremely unresponsive.
The reason he’s considered to be one of the best Mario Kart 8 characters, however, is because of his amazing air speed. The more jumps the better, as Waluigi is pretty much unmatched when it comes to flying at top speeds.
4: Bowser
Mario might have not made it to this list (at least the adult version didn’t) but the King Koopa himself, Bowser, comes in as being the fourth best Mario Kart 8 character. Being the primary antagonist, that should be expected of him.
Being another heavyweight character, Bowser’s handling is poor, so that should be the main focus when making his builds. However, when he does reach his top speed, he’s virtually uncatchable.
If someone does manage to catch him, then his weight and strength should be more than enough to bully most opponents into submission. Avoid slowing down, get as much air time as you can, and you’ll see the first position screen before long.
3: Baby Characters (Mario, Luigi, Peach, Rosalina)
The baby characters might be lacking in experience and age, but what they aren’t lacking in is handling and acceleration. Having some of the best mini turbo boosts in the game, these diaper wearers shine the most when it comes to drifting and sharp corners.
If we’re going into specifics, then baby Mario and baby Luigi are a tad bit better than the princesses due to them having slightly better speeds. However, that doesn’t mean baby Peach and Baby Rosalina are bad picks either.
Although they’re lightweight characters, building their setup (or build) when keeping that in mind makes it so that their weight disadvantage is taken care of and they don’t go flying with the slightest touch of an enemy kart.
2: Dry Bowser
While Bowser was already a force to be reckoned with on the track, Dry Bowser made his return with the game’s second DLC pack, and boy did he make his presence known. While he’s considered to be a heavyweight character, he’s actually what is called ‘very heavy’.
Because of this increase in weight, Dry Bowser can reach top speeds that many characters can only dream of achieving. However, naturally, his handling and traction leave a lot to be desired, but that’s where his builds come in.
As soon as you get the lead with Dry Bowser, all you have to do is maintain that insane top speed, which means keeping away from water. If anyone does come close to you, however, then show them why Dry Bowser’s in a weight class of his own.
1: Wario
WAAA! Who else to take the number one spot than the meanest racer around, Wario? Not being a villain but also not a hero, Wario has become a staple character in the Mario franchise, even being a playable character in Super Mario 64 DS.
When it comes to Mario Kart 8, Wario has unmatched speed as well as traction, which means whether it’s on the track or off of it, Wario will have no problem being ahead of the opposition. Whether it be drifting sharp corners, or keeping the enemy behind him with his weight and strength, Wario is number one in everything.
Final Thoughts
While it’s true that there are many beloved characters, both from the Mario franchise as well as crossover characters, that were left out from this list, we assure you we put every single character into consideration when making this list.
