Should you use Smart Steering in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?

One of the most controversial topics when it comes to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is smart steering. It’s a hated setting by some players and is seen as more of a hinderance than a help. So what is smart steering, and how do you use it properly?

Smart Steering is essentially auto-pilot. When it’s turned on, Smart Steering will guide a player along the track and not let them steer off-course. When it’s on, you’ll see an antenna on the back of the kart that lights up when you get close to the edge of the road.

When do you need Smart Steering in Mario Kart?

Smart Steering is often seen as a handicap, a feature used by new players who are still getting used to the game’s steering and controls. Smart Steering may also be helpful when learning a new course if you’re not looking to be competitive, but its use is frowned upon by more serious players looking to set record times.

Is Smart Steering fair to use?

The answer to whether Smart Steering is fair is most likely up to whoever you are racing with. Smart Steering still requires players to steer their kart to a degree, though there is no risk of falling off the track or skidding into grass on the side of the road. Conversely, Smart Steering will follow a strict path, meaning you can’t veer off course to use a shortcut or to gather up coins for extra speed. This could cause you to fall behind in a race, which is a big reason why Smart Steering isn’t often used by more competitive racers.

How to turn on Smart Steering in Mario Kart

There are two ways to turn on Smart Steering. The first can be done before a race. While selecting your kart, hit the plus or minus button on your Joy Con or Pro Controller to open up additional options. You’ll see motion control, auto-accelerate, and Smart Steering. Press the L button to turn on Smart Steering. You’ll notice that Smart Steering is automatically turned on by default.

The second way to turn on Smart Steering is during a race. Press pause during the race, hit the plus or minus button, and you’ll see the same options in the top left corner of your screen. Hit L to toggle Smart Steering on or off.