Are you ready to push Mario Kart 8 Deluxe to its absolute limit? Forget casual races; we're talking about the pinnacle of skill, precision, and pure adrenaline: speedrunning the newest DLC tracks. If you've been itching to shave off every possible millisecond and master the chaotic dance of 200cc with items enabled, you've come to the right place. This isn't just about finishing; it's about achieving glory. We're diving deep into the Waves 1-4 DLC packs, aiming to replicate or even shatter the incredible 1:02:14 world record.
The Mario Kart 8 Deluxe DLC has injected a massive dose of fresh content, and for speedrunners, that means new challenges and new opportunities for glory. Waves 1 through 4 alone bring a treasure trove of iconic and challenging circuits. When you combine these with the unforgiving nature of 200cc and the sheer unpredictability of items being active, you get a speedrun experience that is both exhilarating and incredibly demanding. The goal here isn't just to complete the set; it's to achieve a time that few can even dream of.
Unleashing the Power of DLC Tracks
These new additions aren't just eye candy; they are meticulously designed to test every facet of your racing prowess. Tracks like the vibrant "Yoshi Circuit" demand precise drifting and boost management. "Big Blue" throws intense G-forces and multiple paths at you, requiring split-second decisions. The "Animal Crossing" track, with its seasonal changes, offers visual flair but also potential hazards if you're not focused. And the sheer beauty of "Crossing Cup" belies the technical skill needed to navigate its complex layout at breakneck speeds. Each of these tracks has unique quirks and optimal paths that only emerge through dedicated practice and analysis.
In my personal experience, mastering the GBA 'Yoshi Circuit' on 200cc was a monumental task. The tight corners require near-perfect braking and boosting to avoid spinning out.
Mastering the 200cc Speedrun
Let's be real: 200cc is where Mario Kart speedruns truly separate the contenders from the pretenders. It's not just about holding the accelerator; it's about braking, drifting, and anticipating every single turn. On 200cc, the margin for error shrinks to almost zero. A slight oversteer or mistimed drift can send you careening off the track, costing precious seconds – or ending your run entirely.
Key elements for 200cc mastery include:
* **Advanced Drifting Techniques**: Learning to initiate drifts earlier and hold them longer, utilizing hop cancels, and mastering fire-hopping where applicable.
* **Brake Drifting**: Essential for sharp turns, this technique involves tapping the brake just as you initiate a drift to drastically reduce your turning radius.
* **Track Knowledge**: Memorizing every bump, boost panel, and optimal racing line is non-negotiable.
* **Character/Vehicle Meta**: While the world record might use a specific combo, understanding the pros and cons of different weight classes and kart parts is crucial for finding what works best for *your* playstyle.
Crafting the Perfect Loadout
Unlike many traditional speedruns that disable items, this challenge embraces the chaos. Items are *on*, and this dramatically changes the strategy. It’s no longer just about optimizing your own race; it’s about mitigating the impact of opponents' items and strategically using your own.
* **Item Management**: Hoarding powerful items like Stars or Bullet Bills for critical sections or to counter incoming threats is vital.
* **Defensive Driving**: Learning to anticipate incoming shells (especially blue ones) and using defensive items like Bananas or Green Shells to block them is a core skill.
* **Offensive Plays**: Knowing when to deploy offensive items to gain an advantage or disrupt rivals can make or break your run. A well-timed Lightning or a Blue Shell snipe can be the difference between a record and a personal best.
* **RNG (Random Number Generation)**: You'll have to contend with the luck of the draw. Developing strats that are resilient to bad item RNG is part of the challenge.
There's a fine line between using an item for offense and holding it defensively. Sometimes, keeping that mushroom to dodge a red shell is more valuable than using it for a small boost.
Unveiling Strategies and Shortcuts
Every second counts, and the DLC tracks are packed with secrets for those willing to look. These aren't just minor deviations; they are game-changing opportunities.
* **Hidden Paths**: Discovering routes that bypass sections of the track or offer a more direct line.
* **Boost Panel Optimization**: Utilizing every boost panel, often in conjunction with mini-turbos or mushrooms, for maximum speed gain.
* **Glitch Exploitation (if applicable)**: While many major glitches are patched, sometimes minor out-of-bounds tricks or sequence breaks can be found and utilized in specific categories. Always check the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe leaderboards for the latest accepted strats.
* **Jump Boosts**: Mastering the timing of jump boosts on specific ramps and terrain can provide crucial air time and speed.
Achieving Glory: The 1:02:14 Challenge
The current world record for this specific challenge – Waves 1-4 DLC, 200cc, items enabled – stands at an astonishing 1 hour, 2 minutes, and 14 seconds. This is the benchmark. Reaching this time requires near-flawless execution across all the included tracks. It involves:
* **Countless Practice Hours**: Dedicating significant time to mastering each individual track.
* **Strategic Planning**: Mapping out the exact route, item usage, and critical moments for each race.
* **Mental Fortitude**: Pushing through frustrating runs and maintaining focus lap after lap, race after race.
* **Adaptability**: Being able to react and adjust strategies on the fly based on item spawns and opponent actions.
Can you be the one to break this record? The path is arduous, but the reward – a place in world record history – is immense. This is where true dedication to speedrun excellence shines.
Join the Speedrun Community
Tackling a challenge like this solo can be daunting. The beauty of speedrunning lies not only in personal achievement but also in the community that surrounds it. Connecting with other gaming enthusiasts who share your passion is invaluable.
* **Share Strategies**: Discussing different approaches and techniques can unlock new insights.
* **Get Feedback**: Having experienced runners critique your attempts can highlight areas for improvement.
* **Find Motivation**: Seeing others succeed and push boundaries can be incredibly inspiring.
* **Celebrate Victories**: Achieving a new personal best or a world record is always sweeter when shared.
Don't hesitate to join Discord servers dedicated to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe speedrunning. It's a fantastic resource for learning and connecting.
Elevate Your Gaming Skills
Whether you're a seasoned veteran aiming for the top of the leaderboards or a newcomer looking to understand what makes a 200cc item run so intense, this challenge offers something. The DLC tracks provide a fresh landscape to apply and hone your skills. Mastering them at this level is a testament to your dedication and talent in the world of videogames. Take the plunge, embrace the speed, and see what you're capable of achieving. This is more than just playing a game; it's about pushing its boundaries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best characters and karts for 200cc with items?
While the meta can shift, typically lighter characters with good acceleration and handling (like Inkling, Villager, or Shy Guy) paired with bikes that offer good handling and drift (like the Biddybuggy or Teddy Buggy) are favored for 200cc to manage the tight turns effectively. However, personal preference and mastery play a huge role.
How do I practice specific tracks efficiently?
The best way is to use the Time Trials mode on the individual tracks. This allows you to focus on optimizing a single course without the distractions of other racers or items. Once you have a solid time, then you can move to practicing the full run with items and other racers.
Is it possible to get a good time without perfect RNG?
Yes, but it's significantly harder. Top-tier speedruns often rely on some level of favorable RNG for item drops and avoiding critical hits. However, strong strats and defensive play can mitigate bad luck. Focus on consistency first, then on optimizing around potential RNG.
What is the difference between this run and a no-items run?
A no-items run focuses purely on technical skill, optimal lines, and character/vehicle optimization, with no external factors like shells or mushrooms affecting the race. An items-on run adds a layer of chaos, requiring strategic item usage, defensive driving, and adaptability to unpredictable events.
Where can I find the official Mario Kart 8 Deluxe speedrun leaderboards?
You can find the most up-to-date leaderboards and discussions on speedrun.com. It's the central hub for all official speedrunning records and rules.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your controller, fire up Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and start practicing. Whether you're aiming to beat the 1:02:14 mark or just improve your personal best, the journey is incredibly rewarding. Share your progress, your discoveries, and your frustrations in the comments below. Let's push the limits of what's possible together!
Hey there, fellow racers and speedrun enthusiasts! Are you tired of seeing those ghosts on the leaderboards and dreaming of your own world record? Do you want to leave your mates in the dust, not just in a casual race, but in a true display of skill and dedication? If you're diving into Mario Kart DS and aiming for perfection, especially in the iconic Retro Grand Prix 50cc with Luigi, then you've landed in the right pit stop. This isn't just a casual walkthrough; this is your deep-dive guide to understanding the nuances, the glitches, and the absolute best strats to shave off those precious seconds.
We're going to dissect every turn, every item box, and every potential shortcut to help you achieve that sweet, sweet PB. Get ready to transform your gameplay from a friendly competition into a serious speedrun attempt.
The Retro Grand Prix in Mario Kart DS is a classic for a reason. It throws you back to some of the most beloved tracks from earlier installments, but with the DS's unique mechanics. Kicking things off in 50cc is the perfect place to start for any aspiring speedrunner. It's a slower pace, which allows for more deliberate execution of advanced techniques and a better understanding of the track layouts before you ramp up to the faster classes.
When you choose Luigi, you're opting for a character with specific strengths. While he might not be the absolute top-tier pick for every single speedrun category, mastering him in 50cc is a fantastic stepping stone. His slightly higher top speed compared to some lighter characters can be advantageous on longer straights, but it's his handling and acceleration that we'll need to optimize.
Dissecting the Retro Grand Prix Tracks (50cc Focus)
The Retro Grand Prix 50cc is your proving ground. Mastering these tracks is crucial for any speedrun attempt in Mario Kart DS. Let's break down each one:
Mario Circuit
This course is often the opener, designed to get you acquainted with the game's core mechanics.
Key Features: Tight turns, a few gentle jumps, and a well-known mushroom shortcut.
Speedrun Strat: The mushroom shortcut at the end of the lap is your bread and butter. Aim to get a mushroom item and use it precisely as you approach the ramp. Even without a mushroom, a well-timed hop can give you a slight boost. Focus on clean drifts through the earlier turns to build mini-turbo boosts.
Moo Moo Farm
A fan favorite from Mario Kart 64, this track offers a different kind of challenge.
Key Features: Open fields, wandering cows (obstacles!), and a somewhat hidden shortcut.
Speedrun Strat: The cows can disrupt your flow, so learn their patterns. The shortcut here requires a bit more precision. It's often a series of small jumps or bumps. Perfecting the hop or mini-turbo entry into this shortcut is key to shaving off seconds. Item boxes in the center are high-value targets.
Peach Circuit
This course tests your ability to handle winding paths and maintain momentum.
Key Features: Numerous twists and turns, requiring constant steering adjustments.
Speedrun Strat: Drifting is absolutely paramount here. You'll want to chain drifts together to maintain your speed boost. Look for opportunities to use items like bananas or shells defensively to prevent opponents from disrupting your lines.
Luigi Circuit
Closing out the Grand Prix, this track is named after your chosen racer, and it's all about speed.
Key Features: Long straightaways interspersed with challenging corners. Plenty of item box opportunities.
Speedrun Strat: Utilize Luigi's top speed here, but don't neglect the corners. Mastering the mini-turbo drifts on the straights and using item boxes effectively is critical. A well-timed Star or Bullet Bill can be race-winning.
In my experience, the biggest time-saver on Luigi Circuit is learning to drift *just* as you exit the turn before a long straight. This gives you a boost right when you need it most.
Luigi's Role and Advanced Techniques
Luigi in Mario Kart DS at 50cc presents an interesting dynamic for speedrunning. His stats, while not as universally dominant as some others, can be leveraged with the right techniques.
Understanding character stats is foundational for any serious speedrun. For Luigi, it's about maximizing his strengths and mitigating his weaknesses.
* Top Speed vs. Acceleration: Luigi has decent top speed, which is great for maintaining pace on long straights. However, his acceleration isn't the highest. This means that recovering from stumbles, collisions, or slow starts can cost you more time.
* Handling: His handling is generally good, allowing for precise steering. This is vital for hitting those tight lines and executing perfect drifts.
To truly excel with Luigi in a speedrun, you need to focus on:
Minimizing Stumbles: Every bump, every slight off-course moment is amplified due to his acceleration. Stick to the racing line like glue.
Exploiting Drifts: Chain drifts to keep your speed meter full. This compensates for slower acceleration out of corners.
Strategic Item Use: More on this below, but using items to *avoid* losing speed is as important as using them to gain advantage.
Mastering Item Management for Speed
In Mario Kart DS, items are more than just weapons; they are tools for strategic advantage in a speedrun. Simply using an item the moment you get it is a beginner's mistake.
* Defensive Item Holding: Holding a shell or banana behind your kart is a classic defensive tactic against red shells. In a speedrun, this is crucial. Getting hit by a red shell can cost you several seconds, potentially ruining a perfect run. Always try to have a defensive item if possible, especially on tricky sections.
* Offensive Item Usage:
Mushrooms: Save these for shortcuts or to break out of a slow drift. Timing is everything. Using a mushroom on a straight where you already have speed is often a waste.
Stars/Bullet Bills: These are game-changers. Use them to skip large sections of a track or to blast through opponents and obstacles. On tracks with significant shortcuts, saving these for those moments can be incredibly effective.
Boosters (e.g., Green Shells): Use these to hit opponents ahead or clear items. A well-aimed green shell can deny an opponent a crucial boost.
* Item Box Chaining: On subsequent item boxes, if you have a duplicate item (like two bananas), consider holding one for defense and using the other. Knowing the item box order on each track can also help you anticipate what you'll get.
The Art of the Drift: Building Mini-Turbos
Drifting in Mario Kart DS is not just about turning; it's about generating speed boosts, known as mini-turbos.
The R button is your best friend. Master its timing, and you'll see your lap times plummet.
Here’s the breakdown:
Initiate the Drift: As you approach a turn, hold down the R button and flick the control stick in the direction of the turn.
Steering: While holding R, use the control stick to guide your kart through the turn.
Spark Generation:
Tap R again while drifting for a **blue mini-turbo**. This requires precise timing and is often achieved by tapping R twice quickly.
The longer you hold the initial drift, the more potent the boost becomes.
Release and Boost: Release the R button as you straighten out to gain the speed boost.
Practice is key. Each turn on each track requires a slightly different approach to drifting. For Luigi, executing these drifts cleanly is even more important to maintain momentum, compensating for his acceleration.
Speedrunning Glitches and Skips (Advanced)
While this guide focuses on core techniques, true speedrunners often delve into game-specific glitches and out-of-bounds skips. Mario Kart DS has its share, though 50cc runs typically rely more on precise execution of intended mechanics. For the Retro Grand Prix, keep an eye out for:
Wall Kicks: Using certain terrain to bounce your kart.
Item Glitches: Sometimes items can be used in unintended ways for boost or positioning.
AI Manipulation: Understanding how the AI behaves can sometimes lead to strategic advantages.
Exploring resources like speedrun.com for Mario Kart DS will reveal the most up-to-date and optimized routes, often incorporating these advanced techniques. A good speedrun demands constant learning and adaptation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is 50cc the best class for speedrunning Mario Kart DS?
For learning the game's mechanics, track layouts, and basic techniques, 50cc is excellent. However, most top-tier speedrun categories are in 150cc or Mirror mode due to the significantly higher speeds, where advanced techniques like drifting and item management become even more critical. But mastering 50cc is a crucial first step.
Q2: What character is best for speedrunning Mario Kart DS?
This often depends on the specific track and category. Characters like Dry Bowser or Waluigi are frequently used for their balanced stats or specific advantages. However, with dedicated practice and optimized strats, any character, including Luigi, can achieve impressive times.
Q3: How do I get a mushroom shortcut on Mario Circuit?
You need to acquire a Mushroom item from an item box and use it precisely as you approach the ramp located towards the end of the lap. Timing is key to successfully clearing the shortcut.
Q4: What does RNG stand for in gaming?
RNG stands for Random Number Generation. In games like Mario Kart, it refers to the unpredictable nature of item drops, enemy movements, or other random events. Speedrunners often try to minimize their reliance on good RNG or develop strategies that work well even with unfavorable RNG.
Q5: Can I use glitches in official speedruns?
It depends on the specific speedrun category. There are typically 'Glitchless' categories where such techniques are forbidden, and 'Any%' or 'Glitched' categories where they are allowed and often essential for achieving the fastest times.
In conclusion, dominating the Retro Grand Prix 50cc with Luigi in Mario Kart DS is an achievable goal with the right approach. By dissecting each track, mastering Luigi's unique characteristics, employing strategic item management, and perfecting the art of the drift, you'll be well on your way to shaving significant time off your runs. Remember, consistency is key in speedrunning. Keep practicing, analyzing your own gameplay, and learning from the best. The world record is out there, waiting for you to claim it!
What are your favorite Luigi strats for the Retro Grand Prix? Did any of these tips surprise you? Drop your thoughts in the comments below, join our Discord channel to discuss strats with fellow speedrunners, and keep pushing for those PBs!
