Corner hugging is an advanced technique in Mario Kart that can help you take the shortest path around a turn, giving you a competitive edge. This guide breaks down the strategy for beginners, explaining what it is, when to use it, and why it’s beneficial.
What is Corner Hugging?
Corner hugging is a strategy used to optimize your racing line and minimize the distance traveled on a turn. It involves subtly adjusting your drift to closely follow the inside of a corner. This technique, when executed correctly, allows you to maintain speed and handling while shaving precious milliseconds off your lap times. While shortcuts grab headlines, corner hugging is about consistently finding the fastest route available on standard track layouts.
It’s important to note that corner hugging isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. The ideal execution depends on your kart or bike type. Here’s a simple guide to remember:
- Karts & Outside Drifters: “Middle, inside, middle.” Start in the middle of the road, turn early and drift outward to brush the inside corner, then level out near the middle of the road.
- Inside Drifters: “Cross, inside, cross.” Cross from your previous position to line up with the inside of the next turn, drift to scrape the inside, then end lined up with the next corner.
The difference stems from the turning mechanics of each vehicle type. Karts and outside drifters have a wider turning angle, so starting early and drifting outwards optimizes their speed and handling. Inside drifters, on the other hand, can handle tighter turns, making the “cross, inside, cross” technique ideal.
When to Corner Hug
Deciding when to employ corner hugging is a matter of experience and judgment. There’s no single right answer, but here are some factors to consider:
- Item Situation: Corner hugging is riskier when you’re vulnerable to items. If you’re stuck in the middle of the pack with no defensive item, it might be best to stick to a safer racing line. However, if you’re in the lead or trailing behind with item cover, corner hugging becomes a more viable option.
- Comfort Level: Your comfort level with the track and your kart/bike is crucial. Don’t try to force corner hugging if you’re not confident in your ability to execute it consistently. It’s better to maintain a steady pace than to risk a costly mistake.
- Track Knowledge: Understanding the layout of each track is essential for effective corner hugging. Knowing the precise location and angle of each turn allows you to anticipate and execute your drifts with greater accuracy.
Why Should You Corner Hug?
Corner hugging might seem like a minor adjustment, but it can have a significant impact on your overall performance. Here’s why it’s worth learning:
- Improved Lap Times: By minimizing the distance traveled on each turn, corner hugging shaves milliseconds off your lap times, leading to faster overall times.
- Competitive Advantage: In a competitive online environment, every little bit helps. Mastering corner hugging can give you the edge you need to pull ahead of the competition.
- Maximizing Vehicle Stats: Corner hugging allows you to make the most of your kart or bike’s stats, particularly acceleration and handling. By maintaining control and speed through turns, you can capitalize on these strengths.
- Enhanced Control: Done correctly, corner hugging enhances your control of the kart, preventing unnecessary speed loss and maintaining momentum through turns.
Conclusion
Corner hugging is an advanced technique that requires practice and patience to master. Start by focusing on the basic principles and gradually incorporating it into your racing strategy. Experiment with different karts and bikes to find what works best for you. With dedication and practice, corner hugging can become a valuable tool in your quest for Mario Kart domination. So get out there, hit those corners, and leave your opponents in the dust!
