Mario Kart World Tips and Tricks
Written by Jason B.
If you're struggling in Mario Kart World, you’re not alone. The game throws a lot at you... and some of it is flying in from behind at 90 mph. These tips will make things easier whether you're racing online, exploring in Free Roam, or just trying not to fall off Rainbow Road again.
Basic Controls and Game Settings
1. Turn off Smart Steering if you want full control
Smart Steering is on by default. It helps you stay on track but blocks the highest level of drift boost.
2. Use auto-accelerate for relaxed play
You can let the game handle gas. Great for long Free Roam sessions or... grabbing a snack mid-race.
3. Remap your buttons
You can change controls in system settings. Helpful if you’re used to drifting with Y or want to move gas to a back trigger.
Racing and Drifting Tips
4. Start drifting early
Drift inputs feel slower than older games, so prep your turns early. Don’t mash... feather the direction smoothly.
5. Get that third drift boost
You’ll need Smart Steering off and a long enough turn. The purple spark is worth it.
6. Use ZR while going straight for bonus charge
Holding ZR even on straightaways lets your wheels pop and builds boost if you hop off rails or walls.
7. Wall ride and rail grind
Once your wheels pop, aim into a wall or railing and let go of ZR to grind and keep momentum.
8. Use mushrooms to cross mud
Some maps have dark mud that slows you down. One mushroom will skip you across like it’s dry road.
9. Each character has unique food unlocks
If you see Dash Food on a track, grab it at least once with each character you want outfits for.
10. Switch characters mid-session
In Free Roam, you can change characters instantly. Great for farming outfits at one food cart.
11. The world map needs help
It’s not very clear. Stick to the mini map when looking for P Switches, sticker spots, or food stands.
12. You can rewind P Switch missions
If you mess up, hit rewind. Saves time and frustration when you miss the final target by an inch.
13. Drafting matters way more
With more racers on the track, everyone’s drafting. You should be too. Stick close behind for a free speed boost.
14. Blue shell dodge still works
You can dodge blue shells using a mushroom. Time it right when the shell flips above you.
15. Knockout Tour is the most fun online
Regular races are fine, but Knockout mode is where the chaos is and where most players hang out.
16. You don’t have to place first to unlock characters
Finishing any Grand Prix cup unlocks its racer, even if you end up in third.
17. Hold A + B for sharper turns
Useful when stopped or in tight areas during Free Roam.
18. Characters transformed by Kamek get unlocked
If you get turned into someone like Spike or Pianta, you unlock them. It’s random, but it counts.
19. Use the soundtrack menu to relax
The Mode Select screen has shuffling music and a great vibe if you want to chill after a bad run.
20. Knockout Tour gives better rewards’
It’s faster-paced than standard Grand Prix and tends to give out more unlocks and coins over time.
Final Blurb
Mario Kart World is fast, messy, and full of hidden stuff. If you keep racing, exploring, and crashing into food carts, you’ll figure it all out. Just remember the CPU is always out to ruin your day, but at least now you’re ready for it.
FAQ
Q: How do I unlock more drift boost levels?
Turn off Smart Steering in the pause menu or settings.
Q: Can you change characters in Free Roam?
Yes, open the menu and swap instantly. Great for farming outfits.
Q: What’s the best way to dodge blue shells?
Use a mushroom just before the shell drops down to hit you.
Q: Is there a way to improve Kamek spawn rate?
Not right now. You just have to keep racing and hope.
Q: What’s the best race mode for rewards?
Knockout Tour has better rewards and faster pacing than standard Grand Prix.
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