How to Throw Stuff on Mario Kart 8 on Nintendo Switch: A Comprehensive Guide
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on the Nintendo Switch has brought back the excitement of throwing shells, bananas, and other items to rival racers on the track. But for new players, it can be daunting to learn how to use these items effectively. In this article, we’ll break down the basics of throwing items in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and provide tips to help you improve your skills.
What Items Can You Throw?
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe features a wide range of items that you can throw at your opponents, including:
- Shells: These are the most common items that you’ll use. There are three types of shells: the small, medium, and large shell. The large shell is the most powerful and can KO opponents with a single hit.
- Bananas: These slippery items can make it difficult for opponents to control their karts.
- Blooms: These colorful items can knock opponents back and reduce their speed.
- Stars: These rare items grant invincibility for a short period and allow you to ignore item-based attacks.
How to Throw Items
Throwing items is a crucial part of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Here’s how to do it:
- Pick up an item: When an item appears on the track, your character will grab it automatically. You can also pick up items that are lying on the ground.
- Hold the item: Hold down the + button to hold the item in your hand.
- Aim: Use the left stick to aim the item. You can adjust the aim by tilting the stick left or right.
- Throw: Press the – button to throw the item. The speed and distance of the throw depend on how long you hold the button.
Tips for Throwing Items Effectively
Here are some tips to help you throw items more effectively:
- Timing is everything: Throw items when your opponents are approaching a sharp turn or a tight spot, as this will make it harder for them to react and avoid the item.
- Practice your aim: Get used to using the left stick to aim your items. This will take some practice, but it’s essential for throwing items accurately.
- Use the right item: Choose the right item for the situation. For example, if an opponent is trying to pass you, a shell might be a better choice than a banana.
- Combine items: Use multiple items in combination to take down opponents. For example, throw a shell followed by a banana to create a tricky obstacle.
Using Items Defensively
While throwing items is fun, it’s also important to know how to defend yourself against opponents’ attacks. Here are some tips:
- Keep moving: Try to maintain a high speed to make it harder for opponents to hit you with items.
- Use a defensive item: If an opponent throws an item at you, try to pick up a defensive item like a shield or a mushroom to block the attack.
- Duck and weave: Use the down arrow button to duck and avoid incoming items. This can be especially useful when an opponent is trying to throw a shell at you.
Common FAQs and Answers
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about throwing items in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe:
- Q: Can I throw items backwards?
- A: No, you can only throw items forwards.
- Q: Can I throw items while boosting?
- A: Yes, you can throw items while boosting, but it’s harder to aim accurately.
- Q: Can I throw items when I’m in the lead?
- A: Yes, you can throw items even when you’re in the lead, as long as you have the item and are not currently using a shield.
- Q: Can I throw items while driving off a ramp?
- A: Yes, you can throw items while driving off a ramp, but the item will be thrown at the angle of the ramp.
- Q: Can I throw items while on a track obstacle?
- A: Yes, you can throw items while on a track obstacle, but the item will be thrown at the angle of the obstacle.
- Q: Can I throw items when I’m under the effect of a mushroom?
- A: Yes, you can throw items even when you’re under the effect of a mushroom, but your throwing distance will be reduced.
- Q: Can I throw items when I’m invincible?
- A: Yes, you can throw items even when you’re invincible, but the item will not deal damage to opponents.
- Q: Can I throw items while in the air?
- A: Yes, you can throw items while in the air, but the item will be thrown at the angle of your character’s jump.
Conclusion
Throwing items is a key part of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and with practice, you can become a pro at using items to your advantage. Remember to use the right item for the situation, aim carefully, and practice your timing. By following these tips and learning how to throw items effectively, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a Mario Kart champion.