Introduction
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe isn’t just a casual racing game; it’s quite deep with many techniques to learn and master. This guide dives into the specific terms and techniques that are crucial for anyone looking to dominate the competitive scene of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.
Key Terms in Competitive Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Purple Drift (Ultra Mini-Turbo)
By holding a drift until your sparks turn purple and then releasing, you unleash a massive speed boost. It’s perfect for long, sweeping curves where you have time to build up the charge.
Coin Farming
Coins increase your top speed, so collecting them is crucial. Each coin up to the tenth gives a slight speed boost, making them a priority in races.
Glide Pathing
In gliding sections, your path can shave seconds off your time. Finding the quickest route through the air is as important as on the ground.
Shortcut Optimization
Knowing your shortcuts and how to execute them can significantly cut down lap times. Some shortcuts are only effective with specific items, so understanding when and how to use them is key.
Trick Boosting
Performing tricks on jumps grants a small speed boost. It’s a simple but effective way to maintain or gain speed.
Item Smuggling
This is the art of bringing powerful items like Stars and Bullet Bills from the back of the pack to the front. It requires strategic item holding and timing.
Slipstreaming
Stay close behind another racer to get a slipstream speed boost. It’s a critical tactic for catching up or overtaking.
Hard Drifting
This involves sharply steering into a drift. It’s essential for tight corners and can be a game-changer in tracks with sharp bends.
Soft Drifting
This subtler technique involves a less intense joystick angle during a drift, allowing for a quicker charge of mini-turbos. It’s ideal for less sharp corners.
Neutral Hop
Use this to maintain speed or adjust your position without changing direction. It’s a small but useful move for precision racing.
Drafting
Similar to slipstreaming, this involves following close behind another racer to gain a speed boost. Timing is crucial to maximize its effect.
Bagging
Dropping back to get better items can be a strategic play, especially if you’re confident in your ability to catch up.
Front Running
If you’re in the lead, it’s all about maintaining it. This involves not just speed, but smart item use and defensive racing.
Shroomless
This refers to taking shortcuts that typically require mushrooms, without them. It requires precise driving and knowledge of the track.
Target Shocking
Strategically using the Lightning item to hit opponents at critical moments, like just before a jump, can dramatically change the race dynamic.
Bounce Tech
Use this technique to bounce off walls or barriers to maintain speed or navigate shortcuts more effectively.
Mushroom Dodging
A well-timed mushroom can save you from a Blue Shell or other hazards. It’s all about timing and anticipation.
Neutral Drift
This is drifting without steering left or right, allowing for straight-line speed maintenance during a drift.
Delay Drift
Delaying the start of your drift can be advantageous, especially in complex track layouts where traditional drift timing doesn’t work.
Low Glider
This technique minimizes your time in the air during gliding sections, allowing for quicker landings and faster overall times.
Shock Dodge
This is the act of avoiding the effects of a Lightning strike, often by timing the use of a Star or other invincibility item.
Start-up Boost
Timing your acceleration at the start of the race is critical for an initial boost. This can set the tone for the entire race.
Motion Glider
Using motion controls in gliding sections allows for more precise control, which can be crucial for optimal pathing.
Drift Charging
Opting to charge a drift during a jump instead of performing a trick can provide a strategic advantage, especially in tracks with immediate turns after jumps.
Hidden Mini Turbo Stat
This lesser-known stat affects the duration and effectiveness of your mini-turbos. Understanding and optimizing it can give you an edge in races.
Advanced Strategy: Drift Charging Over Trick Boosting
One advanced decision in competitive play is choosing between trick boosting and drift charging. This choice can significantly impact race dynamics and positioning. Opting for drift charging in scenarios where immediate acceleration is less beneficial than a well-timed drift can be a game-changer.
The Checkered Flag
Understanding and mastering these terms and strategies can elevate your Mario Kart 8 Deluxe gameplay from casual to competitive. Practice, experiment, and find what works best for your racing style. If you have any questions or comments make sure to leave them below.
