Welcome to the ultimate guide to Mario Kart, the beloved racing game on the Nintendo Switch. Get ready for multiplayer excitement, thrilling go-kart racing, and a cast of iconic Mario characters that will keep you entertained for hours. Whether you’re a newbie or an experienced player, this guide is packed with tips and tricks to help you improve your racing skills and dominate the competition.
Experience the thrill of Mario Kart’s exciting gameplay, where speed, strategy, and power-ups are key to victory. Master the art of drifting around corners to gain valuable boosts and outmaneuver your opponents. Compete online against players from around the world and prove you’re the fastest racer on the track.
With a wide range of Mario characters to choose from, each with their own unique abilities, you can find the perfect racer that suits your playstyle. Whether you prefer the classic Mario or the mischievous Bowser, there’s a character for everyone. Collect power-ups along the way to unleash chaos on your foes, from shells to lightning bolts, and more.
In this guide, you’ll find detailed information on all aspects of the game. From mastering the drifting technique to navigating through shortcuts, unlocking exclusive content, and even conquering the challenging 200cc races. With step-by-step instructions and expert advice, you’ll be well-equipped to take on any race and come out on top.
So gear up, grab your controllers, and get ready for a thrilling ride through the world of Mario Kart. Let’s dive into the secrets of this iconic racing game and become a true champion!
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Switch details
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is an exclusive game for the Nintendo Switch that offers a range of features and additions compared to the original Wii U version. With its thrilling gameplay and beloved characters, this Switch exclusive game provides hours of entertainment for players of all ages.
One of the standout features of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is its vast selection of characters and courses. Players can choose from a roster of 42 iconic Nintendo characters, including Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Bowser, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles. The game features a total of 48 exhilarating courses, encompassing the classic tracks from previous Mario Kart games as well as brand new additions.
To enhance the gameplay experience, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe includes DLC updates that introduce additional tracks, racers, and themed vehicles. These updates provide exciting new content and further expand the already impressive selection of courses and characters. The game also offers new amiibo costumes for the Mii racer, allowing players to dress up their Mii characters in costumes based on popular Nintendo figures.
Here is a summary of the key features and additions in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe:
- Switch exclusive game
- Wide selection of characters and courses
- DLC updates with additional tracks, racers, and themed vehicles
- New amiibo costumes for the Mii racer
Overall, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a must-have game for Nintendo Switch owners. With its engaging gameplay, diverse character roster, and extensive course selection, it offers endless fun and excitement. Whether you’re racing against friends locally or challenging opponents online, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe delivers unparalleled entertainment for both casual players and competitive gamers alike.
Mario Kart 8 Guides
In addition to this comprehensive guide, there are other resources available to help you master Mario Kart 8. These include guides on shortcuts for each track, tips on unlocking gold kart parts and costumes, and information on using amiibo figures to customize your Mii racer. These additional guides can provide you with further strategies and techniques to enhance your gameplay experience.
When it comes to Mario Kart 8, having a good understanding of the tracks and knowing the best shortcuts can give you a significant advantage over your opponents. A detailed guide featuring shortcuts for each track can provide you with valuable insights on how to shave off precious seconds and maintain your lead. By mastering these shortcuts, you can outmaneuver your rivals and secure victory in every race.
Unlocking gold kart parts and costumes is another exciting aspect of Mario Kart 8. These exclusive unlockables allow you to personalize your kart and showcase your accomplishments. Tips and tricks on how to unlock these valuable collectibles can provide you with a sense of satisfaction and motivation to reach new milestones in the game. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to show off your style and stand out on the track!
If you want to add a personal touch to your Mii racer, amiibo figures are the way to go. These figures can unlock special amiibo costumes that your Mii can wear during races. By using amiibo figures, you can give your Mii a fresh and unique look that represents your favorite Nintendo characters. Whether you want to race as Mario, Link, or any other iconic character, amiibo costumes offer a fun and creative way to customize your gameplay experience.
While this guide serves as a comprehensive resource for Mario Kart 8, don’t hesitate to explore other guides and resources available. The more tips, tricks, and strategies you gather, the more prepared you will be to conquer the tracks, unlock all the secrets, and become a true Mario Kart champion. Keep honing your skills, experimenting with different techniques, and enjoy the thrill of competitive go-kart racing!
Unlockable Gold Kart Parts and Costumes
| Gold Kart Part | Unlock Requirement |
|---|---|
| Gold Standard Kart | Get a star rank in every cup in the 150cc class or higher |
| Gold Tires | Beat every Staff Ghost Data in Time Trial mode |
| Gold Glider | Collect 10,000 coins in total |
Note: The gold kart parts are purely cosmetic and do not provide any performance advantages.
12 Mario Kart 8 Tips and Tricks
To excel in Mario Kart 8, mastering various gameplay mechanics and strategies is essential. Below are 12 tips and tricks that will help you improve your skills and dominate the competition.
1. Master the Drifting System
One of the key ways to maintain speed and navigate sharp corners is by mastering the drifting system. When approaching a turn, hold the drift button (B) and steer to initiate a drift. Using this technique will give you a boost of speed when releasing the drift button at the right moment.
2. Maintain First Place
Staying in first place may seem challenging, but with strategic item usage and defensive driving, it’s possible to stay ahead of the pack. Always keep an eye on the minimap to anticipate incoming attacks and use defensive items like shells or bananas to protect yourself.
3. Utilize the Slipstream System
When racing closely behind an opponent, you can gain a temporary speed boost by utilizing the slipstream system. Stay behind their kart for a short period, and once the boost gauge fills up, accelerate to gain an advantage and make your move.
4. Use Ghost Data to Improve Time Trials
To improve your Time Trial performances, take advantage of the ghost data feature. By racing against your own or other players’ ghost data, you can learn new racing lines, optimize your drifting, and discover shortcuts to shave off precious seconds from your lap times.
5. Collect Coins for Speed Boosts
Don’t overlook the importance of collecting coins during races. Each coin you collect increases your kart’s top speed, making it easier to maintain your lead. Aim to collect as many coins as possible to gain the maximum speed boost.
6. Find Shortcuts on Each Track
Exploring and discovering hidden shortcuts on each track can give you a significant advantage over your opponents. Keep an eye out for alternative routes or hidden paths that can help you bypass obstacles and gain an edge in the race.
7. Master the Boost Start Trick
Starting a race with a boost of speed can be a game-changer. To execute the boost start trick, press and hold the accelerate button (A) just before the race begins. Release the button right when the countdown reaches “2” to zoom ahead at the start.
8. Take Advantage of Item Boxes
Timing is crucial when using items. Try to strategically collect item boxes when your opponents are within range, giving you a chance to use offensive items like shells or bombs to hinder their progress and secure your lead.
9. Learn Track-Specific Techniques
Each track in Mario Kart 8 has its own unique characteristics. Take the time to learn track-specific techniques, such as gliding over gaps, using boost pads effectively, and taking advantage of ramps or shortcuts to maintain speed and gain an advantage.
10. Practice Smart Defensive Driving
When leading a race, it’s crucial to anticipate and avoid hazards. Keep an eye out for banana peels, shells, or other obstacles on the track and steer clear of them to maintain your speed and prevent potential setbacks.
11. Study and Emulate Top Players
Learning from the best is a great way to improve your skills. Watch videos of top Mario Kart 8 players, study their racing lines, observe their item usage, and try to emulate their techniques. Incorporate their strategies into your own gameplay to raise your performance to the next level.
12. Practice, Practice, Practice
Improvement comes with practice. Dedicate time to play and practice different tracks, experiment with various characters and vehicles, and hone your drifting skills. With determination and persistence, you’ll become a formidable Mario Kart 8 player.
| Tips and Tricks | Description |
|---|---|
| Master the drifting system | Learn to drift around corners for speed boosts. |
| Maintain first place | Use defensive items and strategic driving to stay ahead. |
| Utilize the slipstream system | Draft behind opponents to gain a speed boost. |
| Use ghost data to improve time trials | Race against ghost data to learn new techniques. |
| Collect coins for speed boosts | Collect coins to increase your kart’s top speed. |
| Find shortcuts on each track | Explore tracks to discover hidden shortcuts. |
| Master the boost start trick | Execute a well-timed boost start for a rapid start. |
| Take advantage of item boxes | Strategically use offensive items to hinder opponents. |
| Learn track-specific techniques | Adapt your strategies based on each track’s features. |
| Practice smart defensive driving | Avoid hazards and obstacles to maintain speed. |
| Study and emulate top players | Learn from skilled players and incorporate their techniques. |
| Practice, practice, practice | Consistent practice is key to improving your skills. |
Control Options and Assists
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe offers a range of control options and assists to accommodate players of all skill levels. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a seasoned pro, there’s a control scheme that will suit your play style. In this section, we’ll explore the various control options and enabling assistance features that Mario Kart 8 Deluxe has to offer.
Enabling Assists
If you’re new to the world of Mario Kart or just want a little extra help, enabling assistance features can make a big difference in your racing experience. One such feature is smart steering, which automatically helps steer your kart to stay on the track. This is especially useful for younger or less experienced players.
To enable smart steering, follow these steps:
- From the main menu, select “Options.”
- Choose “Assist” from the menu.
- Toggle the “Smart Steering” option to “On.”
With smart steering enabled, you’ll find it easier to stay on course and avoid falling off the track, allowing you to focus more on your racing skills.
Various Control Schemes
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe offers a variety of control schemes to cater to different player preferences. Whether you prefer traditional controls or motion-based steering, you can find a scheme that suits you. Here are the three primary control schemes available:
- Joy-Con Grip or Pro Controller: This is the standard control scheme that provides a traditional button-based experience. It allows you to use the analog sticks and buttons to control your kart.
- Handheld Mode: If you’re playing in handheld mode, you can use the integrated Joy-Con controllers to steer your kart by tilting the console. This control scheme can provide a more immersive and intuitive racing experience.
- Single Joy-Con: If you’re playing with a friend or in a multiplayer setting, each player can use a single Joy-Con controller. This control scheme allows for a quick and easy setup, with one player using the left Joy-Con and the other using the right Joy-Con.
Experiment with different control schemes to find the one that feels most comfortable and natural for you. It’s all about finding the right balance between precision and enjoyment.
Speed Tips
Speed is a crucial aspect of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and with the right strategies, you can maximize your top speed and leave your opponents in the dust. Here are some tips to help you gain the edge:
1. Utilizing Boost Pads
Boost pads are scattered throughout every track, offering a significant speed boost when driven over. Make sure to steer your kart over these pads whenever possible to maintain your speed and gain an advantage over your rivals. Memorize the locations of boost pads on each track to optimize your racing line and take full advantage of their speed-boosting potential.
2. Maintaining Momentum
In Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, maintaining momentum is key to achieving top speeds. To do this, focus on smooth, controlled drifts around corners. Drifting around corners not only helps you maintain your speed but also builds up a boost that can be unleashed as you come out of the drift. Timing is crucial for maximizing your drift boosts, so practice your timing and learn the optimal duration for each drift to keep your momentum going strong.
3. Using Speed-Boosting Items
Items can play a significant role in boosting your speed and giving you an advantage in races. When you acquire speed-boosting items like mushrooms or stars, save them for strategic moments, such as after being hit by an opponent’s attack or when you need to catch up to the frontrunners. Using these items at the right time can help you quickly make up ground and propel yourself to the front of the pack.
Remember, mastering speed in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is not just about raw acceleration; it’s about making the most of every opportunity to gain an advantage. By utilizing boost pads effectively, maintaining momentum through skillful drifting, and strategically using speed-boosting items, you’ll be well on your way to crossing the finish line first.
| Boost Pad Locations | Track |
|---|---|
| 1 | Mario Circuit |
| 2 | Luigi Circuit |
| 3 | Princess Peach’s Castle |
| 4 | Bowser’s Castle |
| 5 | Yoshi Circuit |
Item Tips
In Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, mastering the use of items can give you a competitive edge on the race track. Whether it’s defensive items to protect yourself or offensive items to hinder your opponents, understanding how to utilize items strategically is key. Additionally, it’s essential to be aware of hazards on the track that can slow you down or even knock you out of the race. Here are some tips to help you make the most of items and avoid potential pitfalls:
1. Defensive Items
Defensive items can help you shield yourself from attacks and maintain your position in the race. Here are a few defensive items to watch out for:
- Green Shell: Hold this item behind your kart to block incoming shells or projectiles.
- Banana Peel: Drop a banana peel behind you to create a hazard for anyone driving close behind.
- Super Horn: Use the Super Horn to create a shockwave that destroys nearby projectiles.
2. Offensive Items
Offensive items are great for disrupting your opponents’ progress and moving up in the ranks. Use these items strategically to gain an advantage:
- Red Shell: Lock onto the racer in front of you and fire a homing shell to knock them off course.
- Bob-omb: Toss a Bob-omb ahead of you to create an explosive hazard that can hit nearby racers.
- Lightning Bolt: Unleash a lightning bolt to shrink your opponents, slowing them down and making them easier to pass.
3. Avoiding Hazards
The race track can be a treacherous place, with hazards that can slow you down or even knock you out of the race. Here are some tips for avoiding hazards:
- Thwomps: Keep an eye on the track for Thwomps, which slam down and can squish your kart. Try to time your approach to avoid getting crushed.
- Banana Peels: Be cautious of banana peels left by other racers. If you see one ahead, try to steer clear or, if possible, drive over it to knock it out of the way.
- Lava Pits: Some tracks have sections with pools of lava. Make sure to stay on the designated track and avoid falling into the lava, as it will slow you down significantly.
By utilizing defensive and offensive items strategically and avoiding hazards, you can increase your chances of success in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Remember to adapt your item usage based on your current position in the race and the actions of your opponents. With practice and a bit of luck, you’ll be outracing your competition and crossing the finish line in style.
Characters and Unlockables
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe offers an exciting roster of characters for players to choose from, each with their own unique abilities and traits. Whether you’re a fan of Mario, Luigi, or any other iconic Nintendo character, there’s a racer that suits your style. In this section, we’ll provide an overview of the available characters and share tips on how to unlock them.
Unlocking characters in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a rewarding experience that adds depth to your gameplay. By completing specific challenges and achieving certain milestones, you can expand your character selection and explore the abilities of different racers. Here are a few ways you can unlock characters:
- Winning races and cups: Enhance your racing skills and aim for victory in Grand Prix races and cups to unlock new characters.
- Completing Time Trials: Push your limits and set impressive records in Time Trials to unlock additional racers.
- Playing online: Take your skills to the global stage and compete in online multiplayer matches to unlock characters.
As you progress in the game and unlock characters, you’ll also have the opportunity to unlock kart parts and character-specific unlockables. Kart parts allow you to customize your vehicle’s performance and appearance, while character-specific unlockables offer special bonuses and enhancements unique to each racer. It’s worth exploring these unlockables to discover hidden abilities and gain a competitive edge.
To help you navigate the world of unlockables in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, we’ve compiled an overview of the available characters, their abilities, and how to unlock them:
| Character Name | Ability | Unlock Method |
|---|---|---|
| Mario | Well-balanced | Available from the start |
| Lugi | Extra handling | Available from the start |
| Peach | Accelerates quickly | Win the Mushroom Cup in any engine class |
Note: The table above is a sample and does not include all characters in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.
By unlocking characters and discovering their unique abilities, you can tailor your racing experience to your liking and explore new strategies on the track. Additionally, don’t forget to experiment with kart parts and character-specific unlockables to further enhance your gameplay.
Next, we’ll dive into the expansive world of courses in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, including DLC tracks and track-specific tips and shortcuts. Get ready to explore a variety of thrilling and challenging environments as you take your racing skills to the next level.
Courses and DLC
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe offers an exciting variety of courses for players to race on, including both standard tracks and additional DLC tracks. Whether you prefer the classic Mario Kart experience or want to try out new challenges, this game has something for everyone.
Standard Tracks
The standard tracks in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe are packed with thrilling twists, turns, and obstacles. Each track has its own unique design and theme, providing a diverse and immersive racing experience. From the iconic Mushroom Cup tracks like Mario Circuit and Toad Harbor, to the more challenging Flower Cup tracks like Bone-Dry Dunes and Water Park, players will never get bored exploring the standard tracks.
Here’s a glimpse of some popular standard tracks in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe:
| Track | Description |
|---|---|
| Mario Circuit | A classic racing circuit featuring jumps, turns, and power-up boxes. |
| Toad Harbor | A scenic track set in a bustling harbor town with shortcuts and ramps. |
| Bone-Dry Dunes | A desert track filled with swirling sands and hazardous obstacles. |
| Water Park | A watery wonderland complete with water slides and spinning propellers. |
DLC Tracks
In addition to the standard tracks, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe also features DLC tracks that expand the game’s content and offer new challenges. The DLC tracks can be accessed by purchasing the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe DLC pack or the individual DLC packs available on the Nintendo eShop.
There are two DLC packs available:
- The Legend of Zelda × Mario Kart 8 – This DLC pack includes new tracks inspired by The Legend of Zelda series. Race through iconic locations such as Hyrule Circuit and take on challenging courses filled with familiar characters and items from the Zelda universe.
- Animal Crossing × Mario Kart 8 – This DLC pack introduces tracks based on the charming world of Animal Crossing. Enjoy the scenic views of town life in courses like Animal Crossing Circuit and experience the seasonal changes as you race alongside beloved Animal Crossing characters.
Here are some popular DLC tracks in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe:
| Track | Description |
|---|---|
| Hyrule Circuit | A track inspired by The Legend of Zelda, featuring iconic symbols and characters from the series. |
| Animal Crossing Circuit | A tranquil racecourse set in the world of Animal Crossing, where you’ll race through changing seasons and encounter familiar faces. |
| Mute City | A fast-paced track that pays homage to the F-Zero series, with high-speed jumps and futuristic scenery. |
| Big Blue | Embrace the thrill of anti-gravity racing in this F-Zero-inspired track set by the ocean. |
Accessing DLC Content
To access the DLC tracks in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, follow these steps:
- Purchase the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe DLC pack or the individual DLC packs from the Nintendo eShop.
- Ensure that your Nintendo Switch console is connected to the internet.
- Launch Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and navigate to the main menu.
- Select the “Extras” option.
- Choose “Downloadable Content” and follow the on-screen prompts to download and install the DLC content.
- Once the DLC is installed, you will be able to access the new tracks and enjoy the additional content in your races.
By accessing the DLC content, you’ll have even more tracks to master and explore, adding a whole new level of excitement to your Mario Kart 8 Deluxe experience.
Now that you have an overview of the courses and DLC tracks in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, it’s time to hit the racetrack! Whether you’re competing against friends locally or challenging opponents online, don’t forget to utilize the track-specific tips and shortcuts shared throughout this guide to gain a competitive edge and reach the finish line first. Happy racing!
Multiplayer
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe offers an exhilarating multiplayer experience, allowing players to compete against friends and online opponents in thrilling races. Whether you prefer playing locally with friends or challenging racers from around the world, the game offers a variety of multiplayer modes to suit your preferences.
Local Multiplayer
One of the standout features of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the ability to enjoy local multiplayer races with friends. Gather around the TV and experience the excitement of split-screen racing, where each player can choose their favorite character and compete for victory. With up to four players supported, the local multiplayer mode offers endless hours of competitive fun.
Online Multiplayer
If you want to take your racing skills to the global stage, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe also offers online multiplayer, allowing you to compete against players from all over the world. Connect to the internet and join intense races filled with skilled opponents, where every maneuver counts. Put your skills to the test and strive for the top spot on the leaderboards, demonstrating your prowess as a racer.
Multiplayer Modes
In addition to local and online multiplayer races, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe features various multiplayer modes that add depth and variety to the gameplay experience. Take on the challenges of Battle mode, where you can engage in exciting arenas and use items strategically to outsmart your opponents. Work with your teammates in Team races, collaborating to secure victory and dominate the competition. Whichever mode you choose, multiplayer racing in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe delivers exhilarating and unforgettable moments.
Competitive Racing. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe multiplayer introduces competitive racing with friends and online opponents.Engage in local multiplayer split-screen races or connect with players worldwide for exciting online competitions. With different multiplayer modes available, including Battle mode and Team races, there’s always a thrilling challenge awaiting you. Show off your racing skills and strive to be the ultimate Mario Kart champion.
Join the race and experience the rush of multiplayer action in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Whether you’re playing with friends in local split-screen races or testing your skills against players from around the world online, the game provides endless hours of competitive fun. Formidable opponents and exhilarating race tracks await you—will you claim victory and become the ultimate racer?
Playing at 200cc
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe takes the excitement to the next level with the introduction of the challenging 200cc race class. If you’re ready to push the limits of your racing skills and experience adrenaline-pumping speeds, mastering 200cc races is a must. This section will provide you with valuable tips and techniques to help you adjust to the increased speed and excel in these intense races.
Adjusting to the increased speed of 200cc races can be quite a challenge. The higher velocity requires quick reflexes and precise handling to navigate the tracks successfully. Here are some tips to help you adjust and keep up with the increased pace:
- Practice makes perfect: Spend time honing your skills in individual time trial runs or single-player races before diving into competitive multiplayer matches.
- Master the art of braking: Knowing when and how to brake effectively is crucial when tackling the sharp turns and narrow paths in 200cc races. Practice braking just enough to maintain control without losing too much speed.
- Use advanced techniques: To gain an edge over your opponents, consider using advanced techniques such as fire hopping. Fire hopping involves rapidly hopping from side to side when landing after a jump, allowing you to maintain your speed and momentum.
- Study the tracks: Familiarize yourself with the layouts and intricacies of each track to anticipate upcoming turns, obstacles, and potential shortcuts. Understanding the curves and hazards in advance can significantly improve your performance.
As you become more comfortable with the increased speed, you can start employing advanced techniques to further enhance your racing skills at 200cc. Utilizing these techniques can give you a competitive edge and help you maintain control in the face of intense challenges. Here are a few advanced techniques to consider:
- Power-sliding: Master the art of power-sliding to maintain speed while navigating tight corners. Timing your drifts correctly and releasing the drift boost at the perfect moment will keep you ahead of the pack.
- Mini-turbos: Execute mini-turbos by releasing a drift boost at the right time. This technique allows you to gain a burst of speed when exiting a drift and is essential for maintaining momentum in 200cc races.
- Smart item usage: Strategically use defensive items like shells and bananas to protect yourself from attacks while unleashing offensive items at opportune moments to hinder your opponents. Knowing when to strike and when to defend can make all the difference.
By adjusting to the increased speed and mastering advanced techniques, you’ll be able to tackle 200cc races with confidence and skill. Practice, study the tracks, and implement the strategies outlined in this section to dominate the competition and experience the full thrill of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe at its fastest speed.
How to Use This Guide
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, this comprehensive Mario Kart 8 Deluxe guide is your ultimate resource for improving your gameplay. From mastering the controls to learning advanced tips and tricks, this guide has you covered.
For beginners, this guide offers a step-by-step reference that will help you understand the game mechanics, choose the right characters, and navigate the tracks with ease. It provides detailed explanations on how to effectively use power-ups, navigate shortcuts, and maintain your lead in races.
Experienced players will also find value in this guide as it offers a wealth of strategies to enhance your skills. Discover advanced techniques such as drifting, utilizing boost pads, and executing the boost start trick for a rapid start in each race. Additionally, learn how to maximize your speed, make strategic use of items, and excel in multiplayer modes.
No matter your skill level, this guide will serve as your go-to reference for all things Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Whether you’re looking for control options, track strategies, or character selection advice, you’ll find it all in this comprehensive resource. So, grab your Nintendo Switch and get ready to take your racing skills to the next level!
