Mastering the Backward Throw in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you want to master the art of the backward throw in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe? It’s a crucial skill for staying ahead (or rather, behind!) of the competition, and luckily, it’s pretty straightforward.

Here’s the core mechanic: To throw an item backwards, simply hold the Left Stick down (towards your character) and press the ZL or L button. This launches the chosen item directly behind you, perfect for thwarting pursuers attempting a sneaky overtake. Keep practicing to perfect the timing!

Now, let’s delve deeper into the nuances of this essential technique and address some common questions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I specifically throw a shell backwards?

While the generic method works for most items, there’s an alternative technique, particularly useful for shells. You can press and hold the Fire button (usually Y), then hold the directional stick (Left Stick) backwards, and finally release the Fire button. This gives you a bit more control over the trajectory of the shell.

Can I drag items behind me for defensive purposes?

Absolutely! Certain items, like bananas, green shells, red shells, and Bob-ombs, can be dragged behind your kart to create a temporary obstacle. Just hold down the item button (ZL/L) and your character will hold the item behind them. Be cautious when dragging a Bob-omb, as it can explode unexpectedly!

How do I reverse in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?

Reversing is essential for escaping tight spots or strategically blocking opponents. To drive backward, hold the B button to brake until you come to a complete stop, then continue holding it. Your kart will then start moving in reverse.

Is it possible to switch the order of my items?

Yes, item management can be strategic! While there isn’t a direct “switch items” button, some interesting interactions exist. For instance, if you have the Boomerang Flower in your first item slot and throw it while having another item in the second slot, they will swap places. The second item will then occupy the first slot.

What does the ‘R’ option do in the pause menu?

The ‘R’ button toggles Auto-Accelerate. When enabled, your kart will automatically accelerate to its maximum speed. You can turn this on or off in the vehicle customization menu (press + or -) or during a race by pressing R on the pause menu. This can be helpful for younger players or those who prefer a more streamlined experience.

What’s considered the “best” kart combination?

Ah, the age-old question! There’s no universally “best” combination, as it depends on your play style. However, some popular and effective setups include:

• Kamek, Teddy Buggy, Roller Wheels, & Paper Glider: A well-rounded choice.
• Luigi, Streetle, Rollers, & Parachute: Good handling and acceleration.
• Yoshi, Inkstriker, Rollers, & Clouds: Another balanced option with good speed.
• Rosalina, Teddy Buggy, Rollers, & Paper Glider: Similar to the Kamek setup.
• Dry Bones, Biddybuggy, Azure Rollers, & Paper Glider: Excellent acceleration and handling for beginners. Experiment with different characters, karts, tires, and gliders to find what suits your preferences.

Why am I constantly going backwards? How can I fix it?

If you’re unintentionally reversing, it might be due to a controller issue. Try recalibrating your controller. For a Pro Controller, hold A, B, +, and – simultaneously to reset the sticks to their neutral position.

What is the rarest item in the game?

The Boo item, which allows you to become invisible and steal an item from another player, cannot steal the Crazy 8 and is the rarest item in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

How do I throw items backwards in Mario Kart Wii using the Nunchuk?

While this article focuses on Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, the Wii version has a different control scheme. Hold onto the item, and when you want to throw it backwards, pull the analog stick backwards and release.

How do I throw shells backwards in Mario Kart Wii with a steering wheel?

With the Wii Wheel, press down on the D-Pad to throw items backward. This allows you to do so easily during turns without letting go of the wheel.

What’s the fastest kart setup for pure speed?

If your goal is maximum velocity, a popular choice is Dry Bowser’s B-Dasher with Slick wheels and a suitable glider. This combination prioritizes speed and weight, making you a formidable force on straightaways.

What do the ‘L’ and ‘R’ icons (antenna and arrow) indicate in the game settings?

The ‘L’ icon (antenna) represents Smart Steering, which prevents you from driving off the track. The ‘R’ icon (arrow) represents Auto-Accelerate, which automatically accelerates your kart.

How do I place a banana directly behind my kart?

As mentioned earlier, hold the item button (ZL/L) to drag the banana behind you. This is an effective strategy for blocking incoming shells or surprising opponents.

Can you beat the entire game while only driving backwards?

While attempting unusual challenges can be fun, it is not possible to beat New Super Mario Bros. DS backwards.

Can you brake in Mario Kart 8?

Yes, braking is vital, especially in 200cc mode. Braking while power-sliding allows you to navigate sharp turns more effectively. This adds a strategic layer to the driving mechanics.

Is Fire Hopping still possible?

Fire Hopping, which allowed you to extend boosts, has been patched out of the Nintendo Switch version of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

Should I always be drifting?

Drifting is almost always advantageous. Turning normally causes your kart to lose speed, whereas drifting, initiated by pressing R, maintains momentum and builds up boost. Mastering drifting is key to becoming a competitive player.

Who is the fastest character in the game?

According to the official stats, Bowser has the highest speed rating.

Conclusion

Mastering the backward throw, understanding item management, and optimizing your kart setup are all crucial elements for success in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. By implementing these strategies and continuously refining your skills, you’ll be well on your way to dominating the competition. Remember that playing with others can encourage you to push your skills to the next level! Consider the work done at the Games Learning Society or GamesLearningSociety.org to understand the value of using game play to help students learn. So get out there, practice your backward throws, and show your rivals who’s boss!