How to Drift in MK DS: Tips and Tricks for Ultimate Drifting Control

Are you tired of being stuck in the middle of the pack in Mario Kart DS? Do you dream of leaving your opponents in the dust with stylish, breathtaking drifts? Then you’ve come to the right place! This comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to know about how to drift in MK DS, from the basics to advanced techniques. Get ready to unlock the secrets of drifting and become a true Mario Kart champion!

The Fundamentals of Drifting

Drifting in Mario Kart DS is a crucial skill for achieving victory. It allows you to maintain high speeds around corners, gain a significant speed boost, and even knock out your opponents. Here’s a breakdown of the basics:

1. Initiate the Drift:

• Press and hold the “R” button (or the “L” button on the opposite side of the track) while turning. This will initiate a drift, making your kart slide sideways.
• Hold the “R” button for longer to achieve a longer drift. The key is to find a balance between a long enough drift for a powerful boost and a short enough drift to avoid losing too much speed.

2. Maintain the Drift:

• Continuously steer in the direction you want to turn. This will keep your kart sliding smoothly around the corner.
• Adjust your steering input as needed. Don’t be afraid to make small corrections to keep your drift under control.

3. Exit the Drift:

• Release the “R” button to exit the drift. You will receive a speed boost based on how long you held the drift.
• Time your exit carefully. Aim to exit the drift just before you reach the apex of the corner to maximize your speed.

Mastering the Drift: Techniques and Tips

Now that you understand the basics, let’s delve into some advanced techniques that will elevate your drifting skills to the next level:

1. The Power Slide:

• Initiate a drift and hold the “R” button until your kart starts to slow down.
• Release the “R” button as your kart begins to slow down. This will trigger a powerful speed boost, giving you a significant advantage over your opponents.

2. The Mini-Turbo:

• Initiate a drift and release the “R” button just before your kart begins to slow down. This will trigger a small speed boost, known as the mini-turbo.
• Practice timing your mini-turbos to maximize their effectiveness.

3. The Drifting Chain:

• Initiate a drift and hold the “R” button until your kart starts to slow down.
• Release the “R” button briefly and then immediately press it again. This will allow you to chain multiple drifts together, maintaining high speed throughout the corner.

4. Drifting with Items:

• Use items strategically during your drifts. For example, a banana peel can be placed in front of a corner to slow down your opponents while you drift past them.
• Practice using items in combination with your drift techniques. This can be a powerful strategy for gaining an advantage.

5. Drifting on Different Surfaces:

• Drifting on different surfaces can affect your speed and control. For example, drifting on ice will require more careful control, while drifting on grass will result in slower speeds.
• Experiment with different surfaces to learn how to adapt your drifting techniques.

The Importance of Practice and Patience

Becoming a master of drifting in Mario Kart DS takes time and practice. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see immediate results. The key is to be persistent and gradually improve your skills.

Here are some tips for practicing your drifting:

• Start by practicing on simpler tracks. This will allow you to focus on mastering the basics without the added pressure of challenging corners.
• Gradually increase the difficulty of the tracks you practice on. As you become more confident, you can start tackling more challenging corners and tracks.
• Pay attention to your mistakes. Analyze what went wrong and try to correct it the next time.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment. Try out different techniques and find what works best for you.

Drifting Your Way to Victory

By mastering the art of drifting, you can unlock a whole new level of speed and control in Mario Kart DS. It’s a skill that separates the average players from the champions. So, put in the practice, experiment with different techniques, and watch as you drift your way to victory!

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Drifting Strategies

While the core techniques are crucial, there’s more to mastering drifting than just the fundamentals. Here are some advanced strategies that can take your drifting game to the next level:

• Drifting with Item Use: Combine your drifting with item usage for maximum impact. A well-timed banana peel while drifting can create a gap for you to exploit, or a shell can knock out a rival who’s trying to overtake you.
• Anticipating Opponents: Predict the moves of your opponents and use drifting to either cut them off or create an opening for yourself. This is particularly useful when entering a tight corner.
• Utilizing the Track Layout: Understanding the track’s layout and using drifting to take advantage of its curves and shortcuts can make a huge difference. Learn which corners are best for drift boosting and which ones require a more cautious approach.
• Mastering the “R” Button: The “R” button isn’t just for drifting. Use it to perform a quick 180-degree turn by holding it down while steering in the opposite direction. This can be a lifesaver when you need to avoid an obstacle or quickly change lanes.

The Final Lap: Embracing the Drifting Lifestyle

Drifting in Mario Kart DS is more than just a technique; it’s a philosophy. It’s about precision, control, and a touch of calculated chaos. It’s about pushing your kart to its limits and leaving your opponents in the dust.

So, embrace the drifting lifestyle. Practice, experiment, and never stop striving for that perfect drift. With dedication and a passion for the art of drifting, you’ll be on your way to becoming a Mario Kart champion!

What People Want to Know

Q: What is the best kart for drifting?

A: While any kart can be used for drifting, karts with better handling and acceleration will make it easier to initiate and maintain drifts. Karts like the Mach 8, the Wild Wing, and the Bowser’s Shell are excellent choices.

Q: How do I know when to release the “R” button for a mini-turbo?

A: The key is to release the “R” button just as your kart starts to slow down. You’ll hear a slight “whoosh” sound and see a small blue spark as you trigger the mini-turbo.

Q: Is it better to drift on the inside or outside of a corner?

A: It depends on the specific corner. The inside line is generally faster, but it requires more precision and control. The outside line is safer but can lead to a slower overall lap time.

Q: Can I drift without using the “R” button?

A: No, the “R” button is essential for initiating and maintaining a drift. There’s no way to drift without using it.

Q: What are some good resources for learning more about drifting in Mario Kart DS?

A: There are many online resources available, including YouTube videos, forums, and dedicated websites. Searching for “Mario Kart DS drifting tips” will yield a wealth of information.