Controls and Techniques

Mario Kart 8 supports a variety of control schemes, including the Wii U GamePad, the Wii U Pro Controller, the Wii Wheel and the Wii Remote and Nunchuk. The game can also be played in off-TV mode using just the Wii U GamePad. On Nintendo Switch, you can play the game with standard and tilt controls with the Joy-Con, combined as one controller with the Joy-Con Grip, or the Pro Controller.

Here are the different techniques players can -- and should -- employ in Mario Kart 8. All of these will help your racer gain speed and ultimately overtake your opponents. Learn them:

• Spin Boost (Zero G Boost)
• Rocket Start (Countdown Boost)
• Drifting (Turn Boosts)
• Drafting (Slipstreaming)
• Tricks (Jump Boosts)
• Defense

Also, be sure to read up on Steering Assist if you're playing the Nintendo Switch version. You may have it enabled (since it's on by default) if you feel the controls in the Switch version feel odd or the kart is countersteering or preventing you from taking shortcuts.