Master Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: Secret Cheese Strategies For Easy Wins

how to cheese it in mario kart 8 deluxe

In *Mario Kart 8 Deluxe*, cheesing it refers to using unconventional or overly strategic tactics to gain an unfair advantage over opponents, often exploiting mechanics or shortcuts that aren’t immediately obvious. While the game is designed for fair competition, players have discovered creative ways to dominate races, such as mastering hidden shortcuts, abusing item mechanics, or leveraging specific character and kart combinations for maximum speed and handling. Whether it’s zipping through the Cloudtop Cruise’s secret path or timing a well-placed Blue Shell to eliminate the leader, cheesing in *Mario Kart 8 Deluxe* requires a mix of skill, knowledge, and a willingness to bend the rules to secure victory.

Characteristics Values
Character Choice Lightweights (e.g., Baby characters, Lemmy, Larry) for higher acceleration and better item usage.
Kart Setup Body: Biddybuggy (high acceleration and mini-turbo stats).
Wheels: Roller tires (best mini-turbo and acceleration).
Glider: Any lightweight glider (e.g., Super Glider).
Item Strategy Prioritize holding Bananas, Shells, or Bob-ombs to block opponents or disrupt their momentum.
Track Exploits Use shortcuts and glitches specific to tracks (e.g., Dolphin Dive in Cheep Cheep Lagoon, wall-riding in Mario Circuit).
Boost Techniques Master mini-turbos and drift boosting to maintain speed, especially in tight corners.
Defensive Play Stay in the lead to avoid being targeted by items like Blue Shells.
Online Tactics Exploit lag or connection issues to gain an unfair advantage (not recommended for fair play).
AI Manipulation Use AI behavior to your advantage, such as forcing them into obstacles or item traps.
Weight Advantage Light characters are less affected by environmental hazards and have better recovery.
Consistency Focus on maintaining a high position throughout the race to minimize risks.

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Master Drift Boosting: Perfect timing for mini-turbo boosts to gain speed advantages in every race

Drift boosting in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe isn’t just about turning corners—it’s about timing. The mini-turbo boost, that burst of speed you get from a perfectly executed drift, is the cornerstone of gaining an edge in every race. But here’s the catch: timing is everything. Too early, and you lose control; too late, and you miss the boost entirely. The sweet spot lies in understanding the rhythm of your drift. As you enter a turn, hold the drift for a fraction of a second longer than feels natural. Release just as the sparks beneath your kart change color—blue to orange—and you’ll unleash a mini-turbo that propels you ahead of the pack.

Consider the track layout when mastering this technique. Tight corners on courses like Mario Kart Stadium demand shorter drifts, while sweeping turns on Rainbow Road allow for longer, more sustained boosts. Practice on courses with varied turns to internalize the timing. For instance, on Moo Moo Meadows, use the wide, open curves to experiment with drift duration. Aim for three to four spark transitions before releasing for maximum speed. Conversely, on Donut Plains 3, shorter, sharper drifts are key to maintaining momentum through its narrow paths.

Now, let’s break it down step-by-step. First, approach a turn at moderate speed—too slow, and you won’t build enough drift energy; too fast, and you’ll skid out. Second, initiate the drift by flicking the joystick or tilting the controller, depending on your setup. Third, hold the drift until you see the sparks beneath your kart transition from blue to orange. This is the critical moment—release the drift *just* as the sparks turn orange. Fourth, time your button release with the apex of the turn for maximum efficiency. Finally, repeat this process for every corner, chaining mini-turbos to maintain speed and outpace opponents.

A common mistake is overcorrecting during the drift. If you find yourself spinning out, reduce your initial speed and focus on smooth, controlled inputs. Another pitfall is neglecting to use the mini-turbo immediately after a boost. The speed gained is temporary, so plan your drifts to chain boosts together, especially on straightaways. For example, on Mount Wario, use the downhill sections to build speed, then drift into the first turn to carry that momentum forward.

In conclusion, mastering drift boosting isn’t about brute force—it’s about precision. By perfecting the timing of mini-turbo boosts, you’ll transform every corner from a hindrance into an opportunity. Practice makes perfect, so spend time in Time Trials honing your technique. Once you’ve internalized the rhythm, you’ll find yourself consistently outpacing opponents, turning “cheese” into a reliable strategy for victory.

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Item Box Manipulation: Learn optimal item box placement to maximize power-ups and disrupt opponents

In Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, mastering item box manipulation can be the difference between a mediocre race and a flawless victory. By strategically positioning yourself to collect items from specific boxes, you can maximize your offensive and defensive capabilities while simultaneously disrupting your opponents. The key lies in understanding the game’s item distribution mechanics and exploiting them to your advantage. For instance, driving on the inside of a turn near an item box increases your chances of receiving a high-tier item like a Shell or Banana, while trailing opponents are more likely to get defensive items like Coins or Horns. This simple tactic alone can shift the momentum of a race in your favor.

To effectively manipulate item boxes, start by memorizing track layouts and the locations of item boxes. Tracks like Mario Circuit and Moo Moo Meadows have predictable box placements, making them ideal for practicing this technique. Position yourself slightly ahead of the box as you approach it, ensuring you’re the first to interact with it. This increases the likelihood of receiving a powerful item, such as a Boomerang or Bob-omb, which can be used to target opponents directly. Conversely, if you’re in the lead, aim to collect items like Bananas or Green Shells to deter pursuers. The timing of your item collection is crucial—wait too long, and you risk missing the box entirely; go too early, and you might not get the desired item.

One advanced strategy involves using item box manipulation to create chaos among your opponents. On tracks with tight corners or narrow pathways, such as Rainbow Road or Twisted Mansion, strategically place a Banana or Shell behind you just before an item box. This forces the opponent to either risk hitting the obstacle or swerve, potentially causing them to miss their item box entirely. Meanwhile, you can safely collect your item and maintain your lead. This tactic requires precise timing and awareness of your surroundings but can be game-changing when executed correctly.

While item box manipulation is powerful, it’s not without risks. Over-reliance on this strategy can make you predictable, especially in higher-skill lobbies where opponents may anticipate your moves. To counter this, vary your approach by occasionally skipping item boxes or using items immediately after collection to keep your opponents guessing. Additionally, be mindful of your position in the race—if you’re far ahead, focus on defensive items to protect your lead rather than risking an offensive play that could backfire. Mastering this balance between aggression and caution is key to consistently leveraging item box manipulation to your advantage.

In conclusion, item box manipulation is a nuanced yet highly effective technique in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. By understanding item distribution mechanics, memorizing track layouts, and practicing precise timing, you can maximize your power-ups while disrupting your opponents’ momentum. While it requires practice and adaptability, the payoff is well worth the effort, turning you into a formidable racer capable of dominating even the most competitive matches.

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Shortcut Exploits: Discover hidden routes on every track to shave seconds off lap times

Mastering Mario Kart 8 Deluxe isn’t just about drifting and item management—it’s about knowing the track like the back of your glove. Every course hides at least one shortcut, often guarded by tricky terrain or deceptive angles. Take *Moo Moo Meadows*, for instance: a well-timed mushroom boost through the grassy patches near the start shaves off a full second per lap. These hidden routes aren’t always obvious, but they’re game-changers for players aiming to dominate online races.

To uncover these exploits, adopt a detective’s mindset. Study the track layout during practice sessions, paying attention to barriers, ramps, and out-of-bounds areas. Look for gaps in fences, elevated platforms, or water patches that might allow passage with the right item or speed. For example, in *Mario Circuit*, a precise drift into the narrow gap between the first turn’s fence and the track can bypass half the corner. Pair this with a mushroom for maximum efficiency, but beware: mistiming can lead to a crash, costing you more than you gain.

Not all shortcuts require speed items. Some rely on character and kart combinations. Lightweight characters like Baby Daisy paired with high acceleration karts excel at exploiting tight spaces, while heavier builds can break through weak barriers. In *Donut Plains 3*, a well-angled drift with a heavy character can smash through the shortcut’s flimsy wall, saving nearly two seconds. Experiment with setups to find the optimal balance for each track’s unique demands.

Caution is key when attempting these exploits. Overconfidence can turn a shortcut into a setback. In *Rainbow Road*, a risky jump near the final stretch offers a massive time save, but missing the landing sends you tumbling. Practice in Time Trials to refine your approach, and always prioritize consistency over flashiness in competitive races. Remember, shortcuts are tools, not guarantees—use them wisely to outmaneuver opponents without sacrificing stability.

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Character & Kart Combos: Optimize character and kart setups for maximum speed and handling

In Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, the right character and kart combination can make or break your race. Heavy characters like Bowser or Morton paired with the Mach 8 kart and Slim tires create a setup that maximizes speed and acceleration, ideal for straightaways and overtaking. This combo sacrifices handling, so it’s best suited for tracks with fewer tight turns, like Mario Circuit or Toad Harbor. If you’re aiming to cheese your way to victory, this setup leverages raw power over precision, giving you an edge in open courses.

Now, let’s talk handling. For tracks demanding sharp turns and technical skill, like Twisted Mansion or Baby Park, opt for lightweight characters like Yoshi or Toad paired with the Biddybuggy kart and Roller tires. This setup prioritizes agility and responsiveness, allowing you to navigate tight corners with ease. While you’ll sacrifice top speed, the ability to maintain momentum through turns often outweighs the loss, especially in chaotic, obstacle-filled races. This combo is perfect for cheesing your way through tricky courses where control trumps brute force.

If you’re looking for a balanced approach, medium-weight characters like Mario or Peach paired with the Streetle kart and Standard tires offer a happy medium. This setup provides decent speed, acceleration, and handling, making it versatile for a variety of tracks. It’s not the most extreme cheese strategy, but its adaptability ensures consistent performance across different race conditions. This combo is ideal for players who want to cheese without committing to a single playstyle.

Lastly, don’t overlook the importance of gliders. While they don’t directly impact speed or handling, choosing a glider like the Super Glider or Cloud Glider can extend your airtime, giving you more opportunities to maintain speed or reposition during jumps. Pairing the right glider with your character and kart combo can subtly enhance your overall performance, adding an extra layer of cheese to your strategy. Experiment with these setups, and you’ll find the perfect balance to dominate the track.

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Blue Shell Avoidance: Strategically use items and positioning to dodge blue shells consistently

In Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, the Blue Shell is every racer's nightmare—a homing missile that targets the leader, guaranteeing chaos. However, with strategic item use and positioning, you can consistently dodge this dreaded projectile and maintain your lead. The key lies in understanding its mechanics: the Blue Shell follows a straight path to the front-runner, but its trajectory can be disrupted by obstacles, clever timing, and well-placed items.

One effective method is to leverage the Super Horn, the only item capable of destroying a Blue Shell on impact. If you’re in first place and hear the ominous hum signaling its approach, hold onto the Super Horn until the last moment. Activate it just as the Blue Shell is about to strike, neutralizing the threat and preserving your position. This requires quick reflexes and a keen ear, but mastering this technique can turn the tide of a race.

Another strategy involves manipulating your position to avoid being the target in the first place. If you’re in first but see a Blue Shell incoming, intentionally slow down or drift wide to let another racer pass you momentarily. The Blue Shell will then target them instead, giving you a free pass to reclaim the lead. This tactic works best on straightaways or wide tracks where overtaking is easy. Pair it with a well-timed Mushroom boost to regain your position swiftly.

Track knowledge is equally crucial for Blue Shell avoidance. Familiarize yourself with layouts to identify safe zones—areas where obstacles like walls, ramps, or tight turns can disrupt the Blue Shell’s path. For instance, on tracks like Rainbow Road or Big Donut, position yourself near barriers or corners to increase the chances of the Blue Shell hitting an obstacle instead of you. Additionally, staying in second place just behind the leader can be a safer bet, as the Blue Shell will target the racer ahead of you.

Finally, item management plays a pivotal role. If you’re in the lead, prioritize holding defensive items like the Super Horn, Banana, or Triple Shells. These can either destroy the Blue Shell or create obstacles to block its path. Avoid using items recklessly when in first place, as an empty item slot leaves you vulnerable. Always keep an eye on your item inventory and plan ahead to ensure you’re prepared for the inevitable Blue Shell attack.

By combining these strategies—using the Super Horn, manipulating your position, leveraging track knowledge, and managing items—you can turn Blue Shell avoidance into an art form. While it requires practice and precision, consistently dodging this game-changing item will elevate your Mario Kart 8 Deluxe gameplay and secure more victories.

Frequently asked questions

"Cheese it" refers to using strategies or exploits that are considered cheap or unfair to gain an advantage over opponents, often involving glitches, overpowered items, or specific track shortcuts.

Common cheese strategies include using the Blue Shell repeatedly to target the leader, exploiting the Boomerang item for easy hits, or taking advantage of specific track shortcuts like the one in Rainbow Road.

Yes, using the Bowser's Shell on the final lap to block or slow down opponents, especially in online races, is often considered a cheese tactic due to its effectiveness and lack of counterplay.

Yes, some tournaments ban specific cheese tactics, such as the "Light Blue Shell glitch" or excessive use of the Boo item, as they are deemed unfair and uncompetitive. Always check tournament rules before using such strategies.

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