Welcome to our ultimate guide on the best Mario Kart 8 Deluxe setup. If you’re looking to dominate the race track and leave your opponents in the dust, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll explore expert strategies and tips that will help you optimize your kart and stay ahead of the competition.
Key Takeaways
- Choosing the right character can significantly impact your performance on the track.
- Selecting the ideal kart body, tires, and glider combinations is crucial to your success.
- Mastering drifting techniques and item management can give you an edge over your opponents.
- Understanding track shortcuts and perfecting racing techniques can help you maintain high speeds and outmaneuver your competition.
- Online multiplayer strategies require adapting your approach to real opponents to secure victory.
Choosing the Right Character
When choosing your character in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, it’s important to consider their stats and abilities to give yourself the best chance of success on the race track. With over 40 characters to choose from, it can be overwhelming to find the right fit. Here are some of the best characters to choose:
| Name | Speed | Acceleration | Weight | Handling | Traction |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mario | 3.25 | 2.75 | 3.25 | 3.25 | 3.00 |
| Metal Mario | 3.50 | 2.25 | 4.50 | 2.75 | 2.75 |
| Rosalina | 2.75 | 2.25 | 2.75 | 4.00 | 3.00 |
| Bowser | 4.00 | 2.25 | 4.75 | 2.25 | 2.25 |
As you can see from the table above, the optimal character is dependent on your personal preferences and playstyle. For example, if you value a high top speed, choose Bowser. If you want a well-rounded build, Mario is a good choice. You can experiment with different characters to find the one that suits your needs best and provides a competitive edge.
Selecting the Ideal Kart Body
When it comes to choosing the perfect kart body for your Mario Kart 8 Deluxe setup, several factors come into play. Speed, acceleration, and handling are all crucial considerations that can make a significant difference in your racing performance. Luckily, there are several kart bodies available, each offering unique advantages and disadvantages.
| Name | Speed | Acceleration | Handling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mach 8 | 4/5 | 3/5 | 2/5 |
| Biddybuggy | 2/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 |
| Prancer | 3/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 |
| Circuit Special | 5/5 | 2/5 | 1/5 |
Mach 8
The Mach 8 is a fast and sturdy kart body, ideal for players looking for speed on straight tracks. Its acceleration and handling, however, are less impressive, making sharp turns and tricky corners more challenging.
Biddybuggy
For those who prioritize acceleration and handling over speed, the Biddybuggy is a popular choice. Its small size and lightweight make it easier to handle in tight turns, but it sacrifices some top speed in the process.
Prancer
The Prancer is a balanced kart body, suited for all-round gameplay. With decent speed, acceleration, and handling, it’s a dependable choice for newer players still developing their racing style.
Circuit Special
The Circuit Special is a high-speed kart body for experienced players looking to dominate on straight tracks. Its weak acceleration and handling make it more challenging to control on trickier courses, but for confident drivers, its speed is unbeatable.
Ultimately, the ideal kart body choice depends on your playstyle and track preferences. Experiment with different combinations until you find the perfect fit for your best Mario Kart 8 Deluxe setup.
Optimizing Tire Selection
Tires are a crucial component of your kart setup in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. They affect your kart’s grip and handling, making the right tire selection vital for success on the race track.
The best tire choice depends on the track conditions, such as the surface type, corners, and gradients. In general, slick tires are ideal for smooth and dry tracks, while off-road tires perform better on courses with a lot of dirt, gravel, and grass.
If the track has a mix of surfaces, such as asphalt and mud, you might want to consider all-round tires that offer a balanced grip on different terrains. Similarly, if the course has many tight corners, you might prefer small tires that provide faster acceleration and sharper turns.
| Tire Type | Description | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | Balanced grip and speed on most surfaces | All tracks |
| Slick | High speed on smooth and dry surfaces | Dry tracks without many turns |
| Cyber Slick | Maximum speed and drift boost on smooth and dry surfaces | Time Trials and speed-based races |
| Off-Road | Excellent grip and speed on dirt, grass, and sand | Tracks with many off-road areas |
| Monster | Maximum grip and off-road speed | Muddy tracks with many obstacles |
| Retro | Balanced grip and speed with a classic style | Retro tracks and classic racing mode |
Experiment with different tire types and sizes to find the optimal combination for your style and the current race course. Keep in mind that the right tire selection also depends on the character, kart body, and glider you choose.
Picking the Perfect Glider
Your glider choice can make all the difference in races that feature jumps and gliding sections. Different gliders offer various bonuses such as speed, acceleration, or handling. Choosing the best glider that matches your playstyle is crucial.
| Glider Name | Description | Unlock Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Super Glider | Average glider with no real advantages | Default Glider |
| Cloud Glider | Great acceleration and handling, low speed | Complete 150cc Lightning Cup |
| Waddle Wing | Good speed and acceleration, low handling | Complete 150cc Egg Cup |
| Gold Glider | Great speed and acceleration, low handling | Collect 10,000 coins in total |
We recommend the Cloud Glider for beginners as it offers a balanced mix of handling and acceleration. Advanced players who prioritize speed might prefer the Gold Glider, whereas experts who can handle low handling might prefer the Waddle Wing. It’s worth unlocking all the gliders and trying them out on different tracks to find the one that works best for you.
Pro Tip: In tracks with long gliding sections, use a glider with high speed and acceleration to make the most out of the glide and cover more distance.
Adjusting Kart Parts for Each Race
Customizing your kart parts is an essential aspect of achieving the best Mario Kart 8 Deluxe setup. Depending on the characteristics of each race track and your playstyle, certain combinations of character, kart body, tires, and glider may work better than others.
For example, if you’re playing on a track with sharp turns and obstacles, choosing a character with high acceleration and handling stats may be advantageous. Pairing them with a kart body that has good acceleration and a glider that provides additional speed can further improve your chances of success.
On the other hand, if you’re racing on a track with long straightaways, a character with high speed and weight stats may be a better choice. Opting for a kart body with high speed and strong tires that provide good grip can enhance your performance even further.
Experimenting with different combinations of kart parts and paying attention to how they impact your performance can help you find the ideal setup for each race track. With the right kart customization, you’ll be able to outpace your opponents and finish first on the podium.
Mastering Drifting Techniques
One of the most important techniques to master in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is drifting. It can help maintain your kart’s speed and execute sharp turns, giving you an edge over your opponents. To perfect your drifting skills, try these expert tips:
1. Hold the Drift Button
Make sure to hold down the drift button as soon as you initiate the drift. This will help you maintain the drift for longer periods and build up a boost that will increase your speed.
2. Choose the Right Angle
When drifting, it’s important to choose the right angle for the turn. You want to avoid hitting the walls or going too wide. Try to take a tight angle that will allow you to cut corners and maintain your speed.
3. Release the Drift Button at the Right Time
Knowing when to release the drift button is crucial to a successful drift. Release the button too early, and you won’t get the full boost. Release it too late, and you might spin out. Practice timing your releases to maximize your drift boost.
By mastering drifting techniques, you’ll be able to take on sharp turns easily and maintain your speed throughout the race. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different drifting styles and find the one that works best for you and your kart setup!
Utilizing Items Strategically
One of the most exciting parts of playing Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the items you receive during each race. From the classic green shell to the devastating blue shell, items can be used to gain an edge over your opponents or recover from a spin-out.
However, knowing when and how to use items strategically is crucial to maintaining your lead and avoiding obstacles. Here are some tips to help you master item management:
- Hold onto your defensive items, such as bananas and shells, until you’re in a position to use them to block or attack.
- Use speed-boosting items, such as mushrooms and stars, at the right time to gain a crucial advantage or catch up to other racers.
- Be aware of your surroundings and avoid using items that could easily backfire and hit you instead.
- Pay attention to the items other racers are using and strategize how to counter them.
By utilizing items strategically, you can turn the tide of a race in your favor and secure a victory. Remember to practice and experiment with different item management techniques to find what works best for your playstyle and the specific race track.
Understanding Track Shortcuts
Track shortcuts can be the key to winning in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe! Finding the right shortcuts can give you a huge advantage over your opponents. Here are some tips to help you make the most of them:
Best Shortcuts in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
| Track | Shortcut | How to Take It |
|---|---|---|
| Mount Wario | The tree shortcut that cuts off a corner. | Look for a tight gap between two trees on a hairpin turn. |
| Dolphin Shoals | The coral shortcut that saves time around a banked turn. | Stay close to the coral at the apex of the turn, then hop over it as you exit. |
| Toad Harbor | The ramp shortcut that saves time on a long stretch. | Look for a curved ramp on the right, just before you reach the long stretch. Jump from the ramp to save time. |
Some shortcuts are riskier than others, so it’s important to practice them in Time Trials before trying them in a race. Once you’re confident, take advantage of these shortcuts to zoom past your opponents and claim the checkered flag!
Perfecting Racing Techniques
As you strive to improve your Mario Kart 8 Deluxe setup, mastering racing techniques is crucial to outpacing your opponents. Here are some tips to help you achieve your best results on the track.
Maintain High Speeds
To maintain high speeds, start by selecting a character with high speed and acceleration, combined with the right kart combination. Practice powersliding around corners to get a mini-turbo boost. Frequent small boosts are better than fewer large ones, so avoid drifting for too long.
Navigate Around Obstacles Effectively
Use tricks such as jumping to avoid obstacles when possible. When you can’t avoid them, try to stay as close to the center of the track as possible so that you endure minimal loss of speed. For obstacles that are too high to jump over, you may have to swerve your kart to avoid them or use an item to break through them.
Outmaneuver Opponents
Always aim to stay ahead of the pack but if you’re in second place, you can use some techniques to outmaneuver the leader and take the lead. Try to use your items effectively to obstruct your opponent. Learn to anticipate their moves, by watching their Kart in the mini-map, remember to avoid being too predictable, and timing your attacks deftly.
Online Multiplayer Strategies
Playing Mario Kart 8 Deluxe online can be exhilarating but highly competitive. To dominate in online multiplayer races, it’s essential to have the best Mario Kart 8 Deluxe setup and adapt your racing strategies and tactics when facing real opponents.
Tip 1: Stay ahead of the competition
The key to winning online multiplayer races is to stay ahead of your opponents from the start. Try to get off to a good start by using a boost at the beginning of the race, and maintain high speeds by drifting around corners.
Tip 2: Use items wisely
Using items effectively can make all the difference in an online race. Don’t waste items by using them unnecessarily or at the wrong time. Use them to strategically hit opponents or protect yourself from incoming attacks.
Tip 3: Play to your character’s strengths
Each character in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe has its own stats and abilities. Use this to your advantage by selecting a character that fits your playstyle and the track you’re racing on. For example, if you prefer speed, choose a character with high speed stats.
| Character | Top Stats |
|---|---|
| Mario | Speed |
| Bowser | Weight |
| Yoshi | Acceleration |
| Luigi | Handling |
Tip 4: Watch out for track hazards
Be mindful of hazards and obstacles on the track, such as Banana Peels or Red Shells. Use your surroundings to your advantage by using platforms to jump over hazards or narrow paths to cut corners.
Tip 5: Learn the tracks
Practice makes perfect! Learn each track’s layout to gain a significant advantage over other players. Knowing where to take shortcuts and how to handle tricky turns can make a huge difference in online races.
By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to dominating in online multiplayer races. Remember to have fun and stay focused on your strategies to secure victory!
Conclusion
Optimizing your Mario Kart 8 Deluxe setup is the key to success on the race track. By following the expert tips and strategies outlined in this article, you’ll be able to choose the best character, kart body, tires, and glider for your playstyle and the track conditions. Additionally, mastering advanced racing techniques such as drifting and learning how to strategically use items can give you a significant edge over your opponents.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting, investing time into perfecting your setup and racing techniques is essential for dominating the competition. So, follow these tips and put them into practice to become a fierce contender in online multiplayer matches or local competitions. Remember, the best Mario Kart 8 Deluxe setup for you is the one that works best for your playstyle – so experiment, have fun, and race to victory!
Thank you for reading and we hope you found this guide to the best Mario Kart 8 Deluxe setup informative and helpful.
Keep on racing!
Keywords: best mario kart 8 deluxe setup
FAQ
Which character should I choose in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?
The choice of character can significantly impact your performance. Characters with high speed and acceleration stats are often recommended for competitive play, such as Metal Mario or Daisy. Ultimately, it depends on your playstyle and preferences.
What are the best kart bodies in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?
The ideal kart body depends on your desired balance of speed, acceleration, and handling. Some popular choices include the Standard Kart, Pipe Frame, and Circuit Special. Experiment with different bodies to find the one that suits your racing style best.
How do I choose the right tires in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?
Tires affect your kart’s grip and handling. For tracks with lots of twists and turns, opt for tires with high handling stats like Slick or Roller. For tracks with straight sections, go for tires with high speed stats like Slim or Azure Roller.
What is the best glider to use in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?
The glider choice depends on the track and your strategy. For tracks with many jumps and gliding opportunities, gliders with high speed and acceleration stats like the Cloud Glider are recommended. In races with few gliding sections, gliders that boost acceleration and handling, such as the Super Glider, are a good choice.
How can I optimize my kart parts for different tracks in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?
Customizing your kart parts based on the track characteristics can give you an advantage. For tracks with long straight sections, prioritize speed and acceleration. For tracks with sharp turns, focus on handling and grip. Experiment with different combinations to find the setup that suits each track best.
What are some tips for mastering drifting in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?
Drifting is essential for maintaining speed and executing sharp turns. To drift effectively, start by holding down the drift button (B for most controllers) as you approach a turn, then steer into the turn. Release the drift button at the optimal time to get a boost out of the drift. Practice timing and experiment with different drift angles to become a drifting pro.
How can I use items strategically in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?
Use items to gain an advantage or defend yourself from attacks. Timing is crucial, so save powerful items like the Bullet Bill or Lightning Bolt for opportune moments. Use defensive items like shells or bananas to block incoming attacks. Anticipate your opponents’ moves and plan your item usage accordingly.
Are there any shortcuts in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?
Yes, there are hidden shortcuts in many tracks that can give you a significant advantage. Look out for alternative paths, ramps, or off-road sections that can shave off valuable seconds. Mastering these shortcuts can greatly improve your race times and put you ahead of your competitors.
What are some advanced racing techniques in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?
Advanced techniques include snaking, which involves power sliding back and forth to maintain high speeds, and using mini-turbos for additional bursts of speed. Mastering these techniques, along with precise drifts, can help you maintain a competitive edge and outmaneuver your opponents.
Any tips for online multiplayer races in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?
Online multiplayer introduces real opponents who likely have varying skill levels. Adapt your strategies and tactics based on the competition. Be aware of other players’ item usage and adjust your defensive maneuvers accordingly. Stay focused, anticipate your opponents’ moves, and strive to maintain a consistent racing line.
