In the world of Mario Kart, the antenna serves a crucial role in helping players stay on track during races. Introduced in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, this antenna is more than just a cosmetic addition.
It’s an integral part of the game’s Smart Steering feature, which helps players navigate the courses with ease, especially if they’re new to the game. In this article, we’ll delve into the purpose of the antenna, its benefits and limitations, and tips on how to best utilize this feature.
Understanding Smart Steering
The antenna in Mario Kart, specifically in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, is a feature related to the Smart Steering system. Smart Steering is a helpful tool for new or inexperienced players that aids in guiding their kart on the track, preventing them from falling off or going too far off course.
The antenna, which is attached to the back of the kart, indicates whether Smart Steering is enabled or not. When the antenna is present, it means that Smart Steering is active, and when it is not visible, the feature is turned off.
Smart Steering can be toggled on or off in the game’s settings, and some players may choose to disable it as they gain more experience and confidence in their racing abilities. However, it is a valuable tool for those who are new to the game or find it difficult to stay on track.
Activating and Deactivating Smart Steering
By default, Smart Steering is enabled when you start playing Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. To activate or deactivate it, pause the game and access the kart customization menu.
You can toggle Smart Steering on or off by clicking on the antenna icon. You can also turn it off during a race by pressing the L button on your controller.
Benefits of Using the Antenna
Beginner’s Aid
For those new to Mario Kart or those struggling with the game’s mechanics, the antenna offers a helping hand, enabling them to enjoy the game without constantly falling off the course. It’s a great way to familiarize yourself with the game and learn the ropes before venturing into more advanced play.
Enhanced Course Navigation
Navigating through the twists and turns of Mario Kart tracks can be challenging, especially for novice players. The antenna and Smart Steering feature aid in course navigation, ensuring that players can stay on track without losing too much time.
Avoiding Course Hazards
Hazards such as Chain Chomps, Piranha Plants, and Thwomps can be a nightmare for players, causing them to lose positions and valuable time. With the help of the antenna, players can avoid these obstacles more easily, minimizing the risk of accidents and maintaining a better position in the race.
Limitations of the Antenna
Impact on Advanced Players
While the antenna can be helpful for beginners, it may hinder more experienced players. The assistance provided by Smart Steering can slow down seasoned racers and prevent them from executing advanced maneuvers like tight drifts and shortcuts.
Loss of Competitive Edge
Using Smart Steering in online or competitive races can put you at a disadvantage. Other players may have honed their skills without relying on the feature and may have a better grasp of advanced
techniques. To stay competitive, it’s crucial to eventually wean yourself off the antenna and develop your racing skills without the assistance of Smart Steering.
Tips and Strategies for Using the Antenna
Navigating Complex Courses
While mastering the game, use the antenna as a tool for familiarizing yourself with complex courses. As you get more comfortable with the tracks and their layouts, gradually reduce your reliance on the antenna to improve your racing skills.
Mastering Drifting
Drifting is an essential skill in Mario Kart, allowing you to take tight corners while maintaining speed. When using the antenna, practice drifting around turns to get a feel for the mechanic. As you grow more proficient, turn off Smart Steering to refine your drifting abilities further.
Turning Off Smart Steering
Once you’ve gained confidence in your racing skills, it’s time to turn off Smart Steering and test your abilities without the antenna. This will enable you to explore more advanced techniques and take full advantage of shortcuts and drifts to improve your race times and competitiveness.
