Mario Kart 8 Deluxe features several driver assistance tools designed to keep players on the track during intense races. While these settings are ideal for beginners, experienced racers often find that automatic steering limits their ability to take crucial shortcuts. Understanding how to adjust these options gives players total control over their vehicle's handling.
Understanding Smart Steering and Assist Features
Smart Steering acts as a virtual safety net by automatically nudging your vehicle away from ledges and walls. While this keeps new players from falling off the map, it actively prevents drivers from reaching off-road shortcuts. Additionally, disabling Smart Steering is required if you want to unlock ultra mini-turbo drifts.
How to Turn Off Smart Steering Before a Race
You can easily modify your driving assists before entering a match during vehicle selection. Press the plus or minus button on your Nintendo Switch controller to bring up the hidden options menu. From this screen, toggle off the antenna icon on the left to disable Smart Steering completely.
Changing Driving Settings During Active Gameplay
If you forget to change your preferences before starting, you can still adjust them in the middle of a track. Simply press the pause button during a race to access the control options instantly. From here, you can toggle Smart Steering, motion controls, and auto-acceleration on or off as needed.
Fine-Tuning Auto-Acceleration and Motion Controls
In addition to steering help, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe includes options for motion steering and automatic throttle. Auto-acceleration holds the gas pedal down for you, which helps reduce hand fatigue during long sessions. Motion controls let you tilt the controller to steer, providing a distinct driving style for casual fun.
Mastering these control toggles allows players to customize their setup for optimal performance on every track. Disabling driver assists unlocks advanced drift boosts and shortcut routes essential for high-level play. Taking full manual control ensures a more competitive and rewarding racing experience.