Welcome to the ultimate Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Walkthrough! Ready to rev up your engines and dominate the track? This comprehensive guide is your go-to resource for mastering this action-packed, adrenaline-fueled racing game. Here’s what you’ll discover: from the essential tips in Starting Your Engines to navigating the most challenging courses in Key Tracks and Their Layouts. Discover the best ways to utilize your arsenal in Using Items and Power-Ups, learn unbeatable tactics in Strategies for Winning Races, and uncover all the secrets to Unlocking All Characters and Vehicles. Get set for a thrilling ride to karting glory!

Starting Your Engines#

So, you got your copy of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and you’re ready to jump into the driver’s seat. Buckle up, because kicking things off with a good start is super important in this high-speed racing game. Here’s how you can ensure you start strong and leave your competitors in the dust.

Master the Rocket Start#

The first secret to a great start is mastering the “Rocket Start”. This technique can give you a burst of speed right as the race begins, which is super handy for grabbing an early lead. Here’s how you do it:

1. Watch the countdown: As the numbers 3, 2, and 1 flash on the screen, don’t press anything.
2. Hit the gas at the right time: Just as the “2” is about to fade out and switch to “1,” press and hold the acceleration button (usually the A button on the Switch). Timing is crucial here – too early or too late, and you’ll just spin your tires.

With some practice, you’ll get a feel for the timing. Nail it, and you’ll get that coveted speed boost!

Picking the Right Character and Kart#

Choosing the right character and kart combination is almost as important as driving skill. Every character in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe has different stats that can affect your performance. Here’s the lowdown:

• Light Characters (e.g., Toad, Baby Mario): They have high acceleration and handling, making them good for newbies. They can recover quickly from bumps and crashes.
• Medium Characters (e.g., Mario, Peach): A balance between speed and handling, these characters are solid all-rounders.
• Heavy Characters (e.g., Bowser, Donkey Kong): They have the highest top speeds but slow acceleration. They’re great for aggressive players who don’t mind taking a few hits.

After picking a character, you’ll need to choose a kart, wheels, and glider. Here’s a quick tip: lighter karts also have better acceleration and handling, while heavier karts offer more top speed but can be harder to control.

Try mixing and matching to see what works best for your play style!

Learning the Tracks#

Getting familiar with the tracks is crucial. Each track has its own quirks, shortcuts, and hazards. The best way to learn them is by practice, but here are some general tips to help you out:

• Look for shortcuts: Many tracks have hidden paths or glitches that can shave seconds off your time. Some of these require mushrooms or other items to access.
• Memorize the hazards: Know where the tricky turns, jumps, and obstacles are. This gives you a huge advantage over drivers who aren’t prepared.
• Use the map: Keep an eye on the mini-map to see where you are and where your rivals are. It can also help you know when to use your items strategically.

Balancing Items and Speed#

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a game of both speed and strategy. Knowing when to use your items can make or break a race.

• Defensive Items: Green shells and bananas can be held behind you to block incoming attacks. Use them wisely!
• Offensive Items: Red shells and boomerangs are used to attack your rivals. Fire them off when you have a clear shot to take out the competition.
• Boost Items: Mushrooms and stars can give you a burst of speed. Save them for straightaways or when you need to cut through rough terrain or shortcut paths.

Remember, sometimes it’s better to hold onto an item until the perfect moment rather than using it right away. Think strategically!

Practice Makes Perfect#

Finally, the best way to get good at Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is to practice, practice, practice. Play through different modes, race against AI, or challenge your friends. With each race, you’ll get better and better.

So, start your engines and get ready to race like a pro! Good luck out there!

Key Tracks and Their Layouts#

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe has a ton of tracks that are as exciting as they are challenging. Whether you’re racing through the Mushroom Kingdom or zipping around futuristic space stations, each track has its own twists, turns, and shortcuts that can give you the edge. Here’s a closer look at some of the key tracks and their layouts.

Mushroom Cup#

Mario Kart Stadium#

• Layout: This is the first track in the game and a great place to start. It has a simple layout with wide turns and a few jumps. The anti-gravity section brings a bit of excitement, but overall, it’s pretty straightforward.
• Tips: Drift early on the turns to maintain speed. Watch out for the Piranha Plants in the anti-gravity section.

Water Park#

• Layout: This track is a mix of land and water sections with a looping roller-coaster-like design. The underwater parts slow you down slightly, so be prepared.
• Tips: Aim for the speed-boosting rings in the underwater sections, and use the jump boosts strategically.

Flower Cup#

Toad Harbor#

• Layout: Here, you’ll race through a vibrant city harbor. The track has tight alleyways, sprawling streets, and even a trolley car track.
• Tips: Take advantage of the multiple routes. Experiment to find the fastest path that suits your play style.

Twisted Mansion#

• Layout: Set in a spooky mansion, this track features anti-gravity sections and underwater areas. It’s twisty and full of tight corners.
• Tips: Use mushrooms to cut through the corners underwater. Watch out for the Boos in the corridors as they can steal your items.

Star Cup#

Sunshine Airport#

• Layout: A sunny airport with a runway and terminals to navigate. Expect split paths and plenty of ramps for trick boosts.
• Tips: Stay airborne as much as possible with the ramps. The conveyor belts in the terminal can also give you a speed boost.

Mount Wario#

• Layout: Unlike other tracks, Mount Wario is a one-way descent from a mountain top to the finish line. You’ll see icy slopes, winding forest paths, and a dam.
• Tips: Be cautious on the icy sections. Use the boost pads strategically to maintain your speed.

Special Cup#

Cloudtop Cruise#

• Layout: This track is high in the sky, with segments on storm clouds and airships. The track features a lot of sharp turns and boost opportunities.
• Tips: The storm cloud sections have random lightning strikes that can slow you down, so stay alert.

Bowser’s Castle#

• Layout: One of the trickiest tracks in the game. It’s filled with fireballs, mechanical Bowser statues, and plenty of twists and turns.
• Tips: Keep an eye on the moving hazards. Drift tightly in every corner to outmaneuver your opponents.

Lightning Cup#

Grumble Volcano#

• Layout: A fiery track on an erupting volcano. The track crumbles and changes as the race progresses.
• Tips: Memorize the layout as it changes. Use the boost pads over lava pits to stay ahead.

Rainbow Road (N64)#

• Layout: The iconic track returns with its winding paths and lack of guardrails. Fall off and you’ll quickly find yourself in last place.
• Tips: Focus on tight drifts and stay on the track. Use bananas and shells wisely to protect your position.

These are just some of the awesome tracks you’re going to race on in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Each one has its own unique layout and challenges, so take some time to practice and find the best strategy for each. Happy racing!

Using Items and Power-Ups#

One of the most exciting parts of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the wide array of items and power-ups you can use to gain an edge over your rivals. Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned player, mastering the use and strategies behind each item is crucial for racing success. Let’s break down some of the most common and game-changing items you’ll encounter on the track.

Shells#

Green Shell:
These are basic but effective. Aim and fire them straight to knock out other players. They’re best used in tight corridors where opponents have less room to dodge. Alternatively, hold one behind your kart to protect yourself from incoming shells.

Red Shell:
Red Shells are a step up. They home in on the racer in front of you, making it easier to land a hit. They’re perfect for taking down that pesky player just ahead, but be wary of their limited tracking ability in wider areas.

Blue Shell:
A.k.a. the Winged Terror. This bad boy targets the lead racer, flying over everyone else and wreaking havoc. If you’re in first place, your chances of dodging are slim, but using a Mushroom at the right time can give you that crucial escape speed.

Bananas#

Banana:
Simple yet effective. Drop these behind you as you race to create hazards for other players. You can also hold onto them to block incoming shells, just like Green Shells. Strategically placing bananas on tight corners or boost pads can cause major disruptions for your opponents.

Mushrooms and Boosts#

Mushroom:
These provide a short, sharp speed boost. Use them wisely to cut through off-road areas or power past opponents. They’re also a clutch move to dodge Blue Shells if used at precisely the right time.

Triple Mushroom:
Similar to the single Mushroom but with three boosts. These are handy for maintaining a lengthy lead or making a significant catch-up move. Time each boost strategically rather than using them all at once.

Golden Mushroom:
This gives you unlimited boosts for a short period. It’s excellent for making up lost ground or securing a last-minute victory. Be mindful of sharp turns and obstacles while boosting continuously.

Bombs and Explosives#

Bob-omb:
Throw or drop this to explode and temporarily paralyze nearby racers. It’s great for dealing with clusters of opponents ahead or disrupting the pack behind you. Just be careful not to get caught in your own blast!

Lightning#

Lightning Bolt:
Using this shrinks all other racers, making them slower and more vulnerable to being bumped off the track. It’s great to use when most players are mid-jump, as they’re more likely to fall and lose precious time. Keep an eye on the race positions to maximize damage.

Defensive and Utility Items#

Star:
The Star grants temporary invincibility and speed. While active, you can plow through any racers or obstacles without slowing down. It’s a great tool for breaking free from dense packs or navigating tricky terrain with ease.

Super Horn:
Perfect for fending off incoming Blue Shells and other projectiles. The Super Horn releases a shockwave that destroys items and spins out nearby opponents. Holding onto one when you’re in first is a game-changer.

Boo:
This sneaky ghost steals an item from a random racer and makes you temporarily invincible. Use it when you’re in a tight spot or to swipe a coveted item from someone ahead.

Using these items effectively can turn the tide of the race in your favor. Whether it’s disrupting the lead, making a comeback, or securing your position, mastering the timing and strategy behind each item is key to becoming a Mario Kart champion. Happy racing!

Strategies for Winning Races#

So, you want to dominate your friends and random strangers in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe? We’ve got you covered! From knowing which kart to choose to mastering drifting, here’s everything you need to climb the ranks and secure those gold trophies.

Choose the Right Character and Kart#

First things first: picking the right character and kart combination is crucial. Each character has different stats, and combining these with the right kart can give you the edge.

• Light characters like Toadette or Baby Mario have great acceleration and handling but lower top speeds.
• Medium characters like Mario and Luigi offer balanced stats.
• Heavy characters like Bowser and Wario have higher top speeds but slower acceleration and handling.

When choosing a kart, consider these four key stats: Speed, Acceleration, Handling, and Traction. Experiment with different combinations to find what suits your playstyle best.

Master Drifting#

Drifting around corners is not only essential for maintaining speed but also for earning mini-turbos. To drift, hold down the R button while turning. Keep holding the drift until sparks appear under your tires: blue sparks give you a small boost, and orange ones give you a bigger boost.

• Tip: Try to drift through every corner you can. The more you practice, the better you’ll become at timing those boosts perfectly.

Utilize Items Wisely#

Items can make or break your race, so using them effectively is key.

• Offensive items like shells and bombs are great for taking out opponents ahead of you.
• Defensive items like bananas and green shells can be held behind your kart to block incoming attacks.
• Boost items like mushrooms should be saved for straightaways or tricky shortcuts.

Remember, it’s often smart to hold onto defensive items, especially when you’re in the lead.

Learn the Tracks#

Knowing every twist and turn of a track can give you a significant advantage.

• Time Trials: Spend some time in Time Trials mode to familiarize yourself with each track. This helps you learn the best routes and where to drift.
• Shortcuts: Each track has shortcuts that can cut valuable seconds off your time. Some require mushrooms or other items to access them, so practice using them when you can.

Draft and Bump#

Drafting is super useful, and it’s easier than you think. When you’re right behind another racer, you’ll get a speed boost, allowing you to slingshot past them.

• Bumping: Heavier characters can bump lighter characters to throw them off-course, especially in tight spaces or just before a crucial turn.

Perfect the Start Boost#

Nailing the start boost can set the tone for the entire race. To get a perfect boost:

1. On “3” of the countdown, hold down the accelerate button.
2. If done correctly, you’ll rocket off the starting line with a burst of speed.

Keep an Eye on the Map#

The mini-map is your friend. Glance at it frequently to:

• Track opponents: Know when someone’s right behind you and be ready to deploy a defensive item.
• Plan: See where item boxes are and plan your item usage accordingly.

Adapt to the Situation#

Finally, adaptability is essential. Every race is different, and being able to quickly switch tactics can be the difference between victory and defeat.

• Falling Behind: If you’re at the back, focus on collecting powerful items and using shortcuts to catch up.
• Leading: If you’re in the lead, play defensively and be prepared for blue shells by holding onto items like the Super Horn.

Remember, becoming a Mario Kart champ takes time and practice. Keep these strategies in mind, and you’ll be dodging blue shells and crossing the finish line in first place in no time. Happy racing!

Unlocking All Characters and Vehicles in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe#

If you’re playing Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on the Nintendo Switch, you might be curious about how to unlock all the cool characters and awesome vehicles. Let’s break it down so you can get on the fast track to having every option in the game!

Unlocking Characters#

In Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, almost all the characters are available from the start. However, there’s one character that you need to unlock through gameplay:

• Gold Mario: To unlock this shiny version of Metal Mario, you need to get a gold trophy in all 12 cups in the 200cc category. It’s no easy task, but mastering the fastest and most challenging difficulty is definitely rewarding.

Vehicle Parts#

The vehicles in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe are made up of three different parts: the body, the tires, and the glider. You’ll start with a good selection, but there’s a bunch more to unlock as you play.

• Vehicle Bodies: There are 22 standard bodies plus four special gold bodies. To unlock these, you need to collect coins. Specifically, you unlock a new vehicle body for every 50 coins you collect, up until 450 coins. After that, you’ll need to collect 100 coins for each new unlock.

• Tires: The game features 21 sets of tires, and like the bodies, they also unlock as you collect coins.

• Gliders: There are 14 gliders to choose from. Keep collecting those coins to expand your glider collection.

Gold Parts#

There are three special vehicle parts you can unlock that are gold-themed, perfect for showing off your Mario Kart mastery:

• Gold Standard Body: Earn at least one star on every 150cc and Mirror Mode cup. That means coming in first, second, or third for an overall ranking of at least 54 out of 60 points.

• Gold Tires: You’ll need to beat all the staff ghosts in Time Trials at 150cc. These are some ghostly fast times set by the developers themselves, so it will take some practice!

• Gold Glider: The most coin-intensive part to unlock, requiring a whopping 5,000 coins. Remember, coins you collect both online and offline contribute to this total.

Tips for Collecting Coins#

• Don’t Skip Coins on the Track: Whether you’re racing against friends or the AI, always be on the lookout for coins scattered across the track. Every coin counts!

• Replay Races: Repeat your favorite tracks to rack up coins quickly. You’ll get to know where all the coins are, helping you collect them faster.

• Online Play: Coins collected in online races also contribute to your overall total, so hop online and race with other players to boost your coin count.

Conclusion#

With this guide, you’re well on your way to unlocking all the characters and vehicles in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Persevere through the races, master the tracks, and soon enough, Gold Mario and those shiny golden vehicle parts will be yours to boast on the racetrack. Happy racing! 🚗💨

Give it your best and let the heat of the race guide you to victory!