Mastering the Art of the Backwards Throw in Mario Kart: A Comprehensive Guide

The essence of Mario Kart isn’t just about speed; it’s about strategy. And a crucial strategic element across almost all iterations of the game is mastering the art of the backwards throw. This simple maneuver can be the difference between victory and a shell-induced spinout. So, how do you do it?

The exact method depends on the specific Mario Kart game you’re playing, as the controls have evolved over time. However, the underlying principle remains the same: you are attempting to deploy an item behind your kart instead of in front. Generally it involves holding a specific button or directional input while activating the item use button.

Here’s a breakdown by game:

• Super Mario Kart (SNES): While not a dedicated backwards throw, strategic item placement was crucial. Dropping items often involved simply releasing the item button at the right moment. Yoshi could throw eggs backward as a CPU controlled racer in Grand Prix mode.
• Mario Kart 64: No dedicated backwards throw. You could only drop bananas and shells by releasing the item button.
• Mario Kart: Double Dash!! (GameCube): Again, no specific backwards throw button. Placement relied on timing and track knowledge.
• Mario Kart DS: No dedicated backwards throw. Items were automatically deployed based on their type.
• Mario Kart Wii: Here’s where things got more specific. To throw a shell or other throwable item backwards in Mario Kart Wii, you generally hold the control stick or D-pad down (away from the direction you are moving, usually directly down) while pressing the item button. For the Wii Wheel, pressing down on the D-Pad will achieve the same effect. The specific item, like a bob-omb, would be dropped behind you automatically.
• Mario Kart 7 (3DS): Similar to Mario Kart Wii, holding the item button would allow you to drag items like bananas and shells behind you. Releasing the button would then deploy them.
• Mario Kart 8 / Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (Wii U/Switch): To throw an item backwards in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, hold the control stick down (again, away from the direction you are moving) and press the item button (ZL/L). A quick press of the ‘X’ button allows you to look behind you for tactical awareness.
• Mario Kart Tour (Mobile): This version uses touch controls. Swiping down on the screen while using an item throws it backwards. Swiping up throws it forward.

The backwards throw is more than just a defensive tactic; it can be used offensively to surprise opponents tailgating you or to set traps around corners. Practicing the timing and execution is essential to becoming a truly skilled Mario Kart player.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions to further enhance your knowledge of throwing items behind you and other related Mario Kart strategies:

How do I hold an item behind me for defense?

In many Mario Kart games (especially 7 and 8/Deluxe), you can hold the item button down to keep a single item trailing behind you, providing a shield against incoming shells or other projectiles. Releasing the button deploys the item.

What items are best for throwing behind me?

The best items for a backwards throw are generally shells (green and red), bananas, and bombs. These create immediate obstacles for opponents to avoid. The Spiny Shell (Blue Shell) is usually thrown forward targeting the leader.

How do I avoid getting hit by a red shell?

There are several ways to avoid a red shell:

1. Trailing an item behind you: As mentioned above, holding an item like a banana or shell will often act as a shield.
2. Drifting: A well-timed drift can sometimes cause the shell to miss you.
3. Using a Super Horn: This item creates a shockwave that destroys nearby projectiles, including red shells.
4. Dropping off the edge: In some situations, intentionally falling off the track and being rescued by Lakitu can evade a red shell just before impact.
5. Using a boost pad or mushroom: Boosting can sometimes provide enough speed to outrun the shell’s tracking.

What’s the difference between a red shell and a green shell?

A red shell homes in on the kart in front of you, making it more accurate. A green shell travels in a straight line and bounces off walls, requiring more skill to aim effectively.

How do I get better at drifting in Mario Kart?

Drifting is crucial for maintaining speed and earning boost. To drift, hold down the drift button (usually a shoulder button) while turning. The longer you drift, the bigger the boost you’ll get upon releasing the button. Practice timing your drifts to maximize your boost potential.

What are the best kart combinations for speed and handling?

The best kart combinations vary from game to game, and even depending on your play style, but generally, look for combinations that balance speed, acceleration, handling, and traction. Lighter characters paired with karts that offer good acceleration and handling are often a good choice for beginners. The article mentioned some good combinations for Mario Kart 8, like Kamek, Teddy Buggy, Roller Wheels, & Paper Glider.

How do I do a boost start?

A boost start gives you a speed advantage at the beginning of a race. The timing varies slightly between games, but the general principle is to press and hold the acceleration button just before the second light turns on during the countdown. Release as the race begins for maximum boost.

Why am I so slow in Mario Kart?

Several factors can contribute to being slow:

• Poor kart selection: Choose a kart that suits your playstyle.
• Not drifting enough: Drifting builds up boost, which is essential for speed.
• Hitting obstacles: Bumping into walls and other racers slows you down significantly.
• Not using items effectively: Items can provide speed boosts or hinder opponents.
• Lag (in online play): A poor internet connection can cause lag, making it difficult to control your kart and maintain speed.

Who are the fastest characters in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?

According to the provided text, the fastest character is Bowser. Note that character statistics vary based on the Mario Kart version.

Is it better to hold onto an item or use it immediately?

This depends on the item and the situation. Holding onto a banana or shell for defense can be beneficial, while using a mushroom for a quick boost can help you overtake opponents or recover from a mistake. Evaluate the circumstances and make a strategic decision.

How can I improve my lap times?

Improving lap times requires a combination of skill and strategy:

• Master drifting: Optimize your drift timing and angle for maximum boost.
• Learn the tracks: Memorize the layout of each track to anticipate turns and plan your item usage.
• Use shortcuts: Many tracks have hidden shortcuts that can shave valuable seconds off your lap time.
• Optimize your kart: Choose a kart combination that suits your playstyle and the track.
• Practice consistently: The more you play, the better you’ll become at anticipating situations and reacting accordingly.

What’s the best way to use a Blooper?

The Blooper squirts ink on opponents’ screens, obscuring their vision. The best time to use a Blooper is when multiple opponents are close together, maximizing its disruptive effect. It’s especially effective in tight corridors or around sharp turns.

How do I use a Bullet Bill effectively?

The Bullet Bill transforms your kart into a powerful projectile, automatically driving you forward along the track at high speed. Use it strategically to catch up to the pack or to avoid obstacles or attacks. Be aware that you have limited control while in Bullet Bill form.

How do I get better at Mario Kart Tour?

Mario Kart Tour utilizes different mechanics than its console counterparts. Focus on:

• Mastering the touch controls: Practice swiping and tapping to control your kart and use items effectively.
• Collecting Grand Stars: Earning Grand Stars unlocks new characters, karts, and gliders.
• Completing challenges: Completing challenges provides rewards and helps you level up.
• Taking advantage of Frenzy mode: Landing three of the same item in a box will cause your character to go into a brief Frenzy, during which you can use that item limitlessly.
• Choosing the correct driver/kart/glider for each course. The game provides recommendations before each race.

Where can I learn more about the educational benefits of gaming?

For more information on the educational aspects of gaming and learning, check out the Games Learning Society website at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ or GamesLearningSociety.org. They have some very interesting articles on gaming and learning.

Mastering the backward throw, and more importantly strategic item usage, is an important part of succeeding in Mario Kart. With practice and knowledge you can easily dominate your friends on the track.