Mario Kart DS Walkthrough
Guide Written By: Eric Tam
Email: cnucksgx<at>gmail<dot>com
Current Version History: 0.81 (Last updated Dec. 24)
Copyright 2005 Eric Tam
General Information
---------------------------------------------------------------------
/ \
Game Name: Mario Kart DS (Nintendo)
Game System: Nintendo DS
Release Date: November 14th, 2005 (North America)
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Wireless DS Single-Card Download Play: Yes
Wireless DS Multi-Card Play: Yes
Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection: Yes
\ /
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Table of Contents
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/ \
[1] - Introduction (1intd)
[2] - Controls (2ctrs)
- Game Play (agmpy)
[3] - Characters and Karts (3ckrt)
[4] - Items (4itms)
[5] - Game Courses (5gmcr)
[6] - Game Modes (6gmmd)
- Grand Prix (agrpx)
- Time Trails (btmtr)
- VS (cvrss)
- Battle (dbttl)
- Missions (emsss)
[7] - Missions (7mssn)
[8] - Nintendo WFC (8nwfc)
- Connection Set-up (acnsu)
- Friend Codes (bfrcd)
- Emblems (cembl)
- Nintendo WFC Match (dnwfm)
[9] - Tips & Things to Unlock (9tttu)
[10] - Misc. (10msc)
- Copyright (acpyr)
- Contact Information (bctin)
- Special Thanks (cspth)
- Frequently Asked Questions (dfaqs)
\ /
---------------------------------------------------------------------
>>----------------------------<<
| 1 / Introduction \ [1intd]
|-------------------------------/-------------------------------------\
| Version History /
<<-------------------------------------------------------------------<<
Welcome to the Mario Kart DS Walkthrough. This is a walkthrough to the
game, Mario Kart DS. If you need any help on a certain task in the
game, it's all here.
In case you're interested, here are some things about myself. I enjoy
playing video games and whenever I got really into one, I decide to
make a guide for it. I've started other walkthroughs on other games but
I've never actually finished them. This Mario Kart DS walkthrough is
the first that I really plan to finish. I've gotten really into the F-
Zero series and competed in the latest F-Zero games in Time Attack. You
might've seen my name in the ladders before. I know this one paragraph
keeps jumping around but lastly, I live "north of the border" so I'm a
huge hockey fan. I started watching the sport a few years ago when our
local team started to get really good. Maybe I've jumped on the
bandwagon, I'm not sure, but I doubt that I'll be getting off anytime
soon.
Below is the Version History of the guide if any reference is needed.
Version: 0.25
Updated: Nov. 20, 2005
Added: Started the Walkthrough and finished Sections 1 to 3.
Version: 0.4
Updated: Nov. 25, 2005
Added: Forgot about the Items so I added and finished that section.
Also started Game Modes and finished up to Battle.
Version: 0.5
Updated: Nov. 28, 2005
Added: Finished off Game Modes and started Level 1 of the Missions.
Version: 0.6
Updated: Dec. 4, 2005
Added: Finished off Levels 1-3 of Mission Mode
Version: 0.7
Updated: Dec. 10/17/19, 2005
Added: Level 4-7 of Mission Mode over those past three days. I'm
finally done with it which I'm glad.
Version: 0.75
Updated: Dec. 20, 2005
Added: A finished section of Nintendo's Wi-Fi Connection and started
Section 9.
Version: 0.8
Updated: Dec. 21, 2005
Added: Section 10 as I get ready to put this guide on the web.
Version: 0.825
Updated: Jan 8, 2006
Added: Started Staff Ghost strategies. I finished Flower Cup and 4
other tracks. Happy New Year!
I still need to finish writing up guides to the tracks and Time Trial
strategies which I plan to do next. Section 9 also needs to be
completed.
If you want to skip to a certain section of the walkthrough, go up to
the Table of Contents and beside the section is a code in brackets.
Copy that code into the Find text (Ctrl+F) and paste it in. It will
skip to that section.
This walkthrough was started for my purpose of looking back if I forgot
how to do something. It's meant to give people a laugh so I'll warn you
now but it all depends on the mood when the guide is written.
Enjoy!
>>----------------------------<<
| 2 / Controls \ [1intd]
|-------------------------------/-------------------------------------\
| Game Play /
<<-------------------------------------------------------------------<<
Here are the controls for MKDS. They can't be changed so learn them
wisely. All of the buttons are used, but some controls can be done with
either button.
Control Pad + Steer (Mini-Turbos, see Tips section for info)
A Accelerate
B Brake/Reverse
Y or Touch Screen Change Map Display
X or L Use Items
R Hop/Drift
Start Pause
Select Not used
A few controls are simple while others may need some explanation.
Reverse: One thing to keep in mind is that when you are turning and
using reverse, pushing right on the control pad will make you go left
(screen facing the front of the kart) although it's actually right. It
can take a while to adjust but reverse isn't used too often.
Change Map Display: The map is on the bottom screen (see Game Play for
more info) and there are two types of display, a detailed one and a
less detailed one. You can switch between these two with Y.
Use Items: When you get an item, you can use it with X or L. I find L
easier to use. With a push of that button, certain items will go
forward while others will go behind your kart. To throw items ahead of
you, press Up on the control pad and then X or L. To throw items behind
you, press Down on the control pad and then X or L. Some items, like
the single Banana, can be held behind your kart but not thrown. To do
this, hold X or L and let go of it when you want to throw it.
Drift: Drifting around corners is important to winning races. It does
not lower your speed while turning. However, you may need to practice
with your kart to see when the best time to drift is as each kart has a
different drifting ability.
>>------------------------------------------------------------------<<<
>/ / Game Play <<<<
>----------------------------------------------------------( )----<
There are three laps in every race (Baby Park needs five laps however)
and of course, it's best to come in first place. It isn't just normal
racing though in Mario Kart DS, you can use all sorts of items to your
advantage. Drive through an item box to get an item. These can help
change your racing positions a lot! Usually, item boxes are located in
a line but sometimes, you'll see one floating around on its own on the
road. Also, try not to go off the road, unless you have a Mushroom and
plan to cut through it. Driving through dirt or grass without one will
slow you down.
The game screen is quite simple. On the top screen, it shows the track
as well as the item you're holding (in the top left hand corner), your
current lap (top right hand corner) and your place in the race (bottom
left hand corner). The bottom screen has a few more things. On the left
side are everyone's current place in the race and the item they're
holding, if any. In the top right hand corner is your time too.
However, the most useful thing about the bottom screen is the map. The
default map, a more detailed one, shows you the opponents within range
and all the items and dangers on the track. There is a much less
detailed map which just shows you the layout of the track and where
your opponents are. Use the map to your advantage!
>>----------------------------<<
| 3 / Characters and Karts \ [3ckrt]
|-------------------------------/-------------------------------------\
| /
<<-------------------------------------------------------------------<<
Without a kart, there is nothing to race with and without a character,
no one can drive. Here is a list of the characters and their karts.
There are twelve in total and each character has three of their own.
Mario - He is the main character and all, and his karts are all very
average. They're great for beginners.
Luigi - Mario's brother and the man in green is Luigi. His karts are
very similar to Mario's in stats but they have their differences.
Peach - Princess Peach is also another character and she doesn't want
to be messed with. Her karts tend to be quite fast but handling can be
a problem.
Yoshi - The green little dinosaur has a few games of his own on various
game systems and earned a racing spot in Mario Kart. He is fast and
light but be aware that Yoshi can be pushed off the tracks by heavier
characters.
Toad - Toad is small and light so his karts have about the same stats
as Yoshi's.
Donkey Kong - He lives in the jungles and has games of his own but the
ape can race. He's a heavy character but in return, is quite slow.
Bowser - Bowser can be seen as the bad guy and is Mario's enemy. He's
very big and heavy but is also very slow.
Wario - Wario can be a dangerous character in his adventures. His karts
are slightly less heavier than Bowser's and is also a bit faster.
Daisy -
Dry Bones - This skeleton of a Koopa is fast and of course light with
no meat. Beware of the heavy bullies though.
Waluigi -
R.O.B - This robot made a surprise appearance to the Mario Kart series.
Its kart's are heavy and aren't that fast.
The Karts
Here is a list of karts and their statistics in Speed, Acceleration,
Weight, Handling and Items. The higher the speed, the faster the kart
goes when it gets a mushroom or some sort of speed boost. Acceleration
is the normal speed the kart can go - generally light karts have high
acceleration. Having a high weight rating let's the driver bump people
around. This can be a great advantage, especially when the track has no
walls like Rainbow Road. Handling and Drift are somewhat similar. The
higher these to are, the easier it is to navigate around turns. If a
kart has a high Item rating, it lets the driver get better items. It
will also give the driver more mushrooms to use in Time Trails.
Below is a sample chart of how the karts will be listed. The stats are
rated out of ten - some of the scores are rounded.
Note: The Weight rating will change depending on who drives the kart.
Also note that the number rating has been rounded.
------------------------------------
/ Name of Kart |
|------------------------------------/
| Name of Driver /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/---/10|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/ /.9|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/ / /.8|
-> Handling |---/---/ / / 5 / / / / /.2|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/---5 / / / / /.5|
-> Items |---/ / / / 5 / / / / /.1|
----------------------------------------------------------/
Let's get started then!
------------------------------------
/ Standard MR |
|------------------------------------/
| Mario /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5---/- / / / /.6|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5---/---/ / / /.7|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5---/- / / / /.6|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5-- / / / / /.6|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/---5-- / / / / /.6|
-> Items |---/---/---/---/---5---/-- / / / /.7|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ B Dasher |
|------------------------------------/
| Mario /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5---/ / / / /.6|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5---/---/ / / /.7|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/ / / /.7|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5 / / / / /.5|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/---5- / / / / /.5|
-> Items |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/---/10|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Shooting Star |
|------------------------------------/
| Mario /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5---/-- / / / /.7|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5---/---/- / / /.7|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/- 5 / / / / /.4|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5---/ / / / /.6|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/---5---/ / / / /.6|
-> Items |---/---/---/ / 5 / / / / /.3|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Standard LG |
|------------------------------------/
| Luigi /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/ / / /.7|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5---/---/- / / /.7|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5---/- / / / /.6|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/ / / /.7|
-> Drift |---/---/---/ / 5 / / / / /.3|
-> Items |---/---/---/---/---5---/-- / / / /.7|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Poltergust 4000 |
|------------------------------------/
| Luigi /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/- / / /.7|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5---/---/-- / / /.8|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5 / / / / /.5|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/ / /.8|
-> Drift |---/---/---/ / 5 / / / / /.3|
-> Items |---/---/---/ / 5 / / / / /.3|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Streamliner |
|------------------------------------/
| Luigi /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5---/-- / / / /.7|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5---/---/ / / /.7|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/- / / /.7|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/ / / /.7|
-> Drift |---/---/---/ / 5 / / / / /.3|
-> Items |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/---/10|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Standard PC |
|------------------------------------/
| Peach /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/-- 5 / / / / /.5|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5---/---/- / / /.7|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5- / / / / /.5|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5 / / / / /.5|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/-- /10|
-> Items |---/---/---/---/---5---/-- / / / /.7|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Royale |
|------------------------------------/
| Peach /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/ 5 / / / / /.4|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5---/---/ / / /.7|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5---/-- / / / /.7|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/ 5 / / / / /.4|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/- /.9|
-> Items |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/---/10|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Light Tripper |
|------------------------------------/
| Peach /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5 / / / / /.5|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5---/---/- / / /.7|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/ 5 / / / / /.4|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5 / / / / /.5|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/---/10|
-> Items |---/---/---/ / 5 / / / / /.3|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Standard YS |
|------------------------------------/
| Yoshi /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5- / / / / /.5|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/ /.9|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5 / / / / /.5|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/- / /.8|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/ 5 / / / / /.4|
-> Items |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/- / / /.7|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Egg 1 |
|------------------------------------/
| Yoshi /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5---/ / / / /.6|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/ /.9|
-> Weight |---/---/---/- / 5 / / / / /.3|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/ /.9|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/ 5 / / / / /.4|
-> Items |---/---/---/ / 5 / / / / /.3|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Cucumber |
|------------------------------------/
| Yoshi /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5 / / / / /.5|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/ /.9|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5-- / / / / /.6|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/ / /.8|
-> Drift |---/---/---/-- / 5 / / / / /.4|
-> Items |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/---/10|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Standard TD |
|------------------------------------/
| Toad /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/ 5 / / / / /.4|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/-- / /.9|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5 / / / / /.5|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5---/- / / / /.6|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/---5---/- / / / /.6|
-> Items |---/---/---/---/---5---/- / / / /.6|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Mushmellow |
|------------------------------------/
| Toad /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/ 5 / / / / /.4|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/ /.9|
-> Weight |---/---/---/ / 5 / / / / /.3|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/ / / /.7|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/ / / /.7|
-> Items |---/---/---/ / 5 / / / / /.3|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ 4-Wheel Cradle |
|------------------------------------/
| Toad /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/ / 5 / / / / /.3|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/ /.9|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5---/ / / / /.6|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5---/ / / / /.6|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/---5---/- / / / /.6|
-> Items |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/---/10|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Standard DK |
|------------------------------------/
| Donkey Kong /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/ / /.8|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5-- / / / / /.6|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/- / / /.7|
-> Handling |---/---/---/ / 5 / / / / /.3|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/- / /.8|
-> Items |---/---/---/---/---5---/-- / / / /.7|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Rambi Rider |
|------------------------------------/
| Donkey Kong /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/- / / /.7|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/- 5 / / / / /.4|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/ /.9|
-> Handling |---/---/---/ / 5 / / / / /.3|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/ / /.8|
-> Items |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/---/10|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Wildlife |
|------------------------------------/
| Donkey Kong /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/- / /.8|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5 / / / / /.5|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5---/- / / / /.6|
-> Handling |---/---/---/-- / 5 / / / / /.4|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/ / /.8|
-> Items |---/---/---/ / 5 / / / / /.3|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Standard WR |
|------------------------------------/
| Wario /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/ /.9|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5 / / / / /.5|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/-- / / /.8|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5 / / / / /.5|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/-- 5 / / / / /.5|
-> Items |---/---/---/---/---5---/-- / / / /.7|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Brute |
|------------------------------------/
| Wario /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/- /.9|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5 / / / / /.5|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5---/-- / / / /.7|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5 / / / / /.5|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/---5 / / / / /.5|
-> Items |---/---/---/ / 5 / / / / /.3|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Dragonfly |
|------------------------------------/
| Wario /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/ / /.8|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5 / / / / /.5|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/-- / / /.9|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5- / / / / /.5|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/---5- / / / / /.5|
-> Items |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/---/10|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Standard BW |
|------------------------------------/
| Bowser /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/-- /10|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/ / 5 / / / / /.3|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/ / /.8|
-> Handling |---/---/---/ / 5 / / / / /.3|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/- / / /.7|
-> Items |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/- / / /.7|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Tyrant |
|------------------------------------/
| Bowser /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/ /.9|
-> Acceleration|---/---/ / / 5 / / / / /.2|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/---/10|
-> Handling |---/---/ / / 5 / / / / /.2|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/---5---/- / / / /.6|
-> Items |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/---/10|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Hurricane |
|------------------------------------/
| Bowser /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/-- /10|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/ / 5 / / / / /.3|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/ / /.8|
-> Handling |---/---/---/ / 5 / / / / /.3|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/- / / /.7|
-> Items |---/---/---/ / 5 / / / / /.3|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Standard DS |
|------------------------------------/
| Daisy /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5---/- / / / /.6|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5---/- / / / /.6|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5---/ / / / /.6|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/ 5 / / / / /.4|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/ /.9|
-> Items |---/---/---/---/---5---/-- / / / /.7|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Power Flower |
|------------------------------------/
| Daisy /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5-- / / / / /.6|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5---/ / / / /.6|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5---/ / / / /.6|
-> Handling |---/---/---/- / 5 / / / / /.3|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/ / /.8|
-> Items |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/---/10|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Light Dancer |
|------------------------------------/
| Daisy /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5---/-- / / / /.7|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5---/-- / / / /.7|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5-- / / / / /.6|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5- / / / / /.5|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/ /.9|
-> Items |---/---/---/ / 5 / / / / /.3|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Standard DB |
|------------------------------------/
| Dry Bones /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/ / 5 / / / / /.3|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/---/10|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/-- 5 / / / / /.5|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/-- /10|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/-- 5 / / / / /.5|
-> Items |---/---/---/---/---5---/-- / / / /.7|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Banisher |
|------------------------------------/
| Dry Bones /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/- / / 5 / / / / /.2|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/-- /10|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5 / / / / /.5|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/ /.9|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/ 5 / / / / /.4|
-> Items |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/---/10|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Dry Bomber |
|------------------------------------/
| Dry Bones /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/- / 5 / / / / /.3|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/---/10|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/ 5 / / / / /.4|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/---/10|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/---5 / / / / /.5|
-> Items |---/---/---/- / 5 / / / / /.3|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Standard WL |
|------------------------------------/
| Waluigi /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/ / / /.7|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5---/ / / / /.6|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5---/-- / / / /.7|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5-- / / / / /.6|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/---5-- / / / / /.6|
-> Items |---/---/---/---/---5---/-- / / / /.7|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Gold Mantis |
|------------------------------------/
| Waluigi /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/-- / / /.8|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5---/- / / / /.6|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5---/- / / / /.6|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5---/ / / / /.6|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/---5---/ / / / /.6|
-> Items |---/---/---/ / 5 / / / / /.3|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Zipper |
|------------------------------------/
| Waluigi /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/ / / /.7|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5---/ / / / /.6|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/ / / /.7|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5 / / / / /.5|
-> Drift |---/---/---/---/---5- / / / / /.5|
-> Items |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/---/10|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ Standard RB |
|------------------------------------/
| R.O.B /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/-- /10|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5 / / / / /.5|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/ / /.8|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5---/-- / / / /.7|
-> Drift |---/---/- / / 5 / / / / /.2|
-> Items |---/---/---/---/---5---/-- / / / /.7|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ ROB-BLS |
|------------------------------------/
| R.O.B /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/---/10|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5- / / / / /.5|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/- / / /.7|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/ / / /.7|
-> Drift |---/---/---/ / 5 / / / / /.3|
-> Items |---/---/---/ / 5 / / / / /.3|
----------------------------------------------------------/
------------------------------------
/ ROB-LGS |
|------------------------------------/
| R.O.B /
>>----------------------------------------------------->>>>
-> Speed |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/ /.9|
-> Acceleration|---/---/---/---/---5 / / / / /.5|
-> Weight |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/ /.9|
-> Handling |---/---/---/---/---5---/ / / / /.6|
-> Drift |---/---/- / / 5 / / / / /.2|
-> Items |---/---/---/---/---5---/---/---/---/---/10|
----------------------------------------------------------/
>>----------------------------<<
| 4 / Items \ [4itms]
|-------------------------------/-------------------------------------\
| /
<<-------------------------------------------------------------------<<
Items are a big part of Mario Kart and without them; the game would
just be a normal game. Items are used whenever there is more than one
person playing like the Grand Prix. Items can either just benefit you
or benefit you and cause trouble to an opponent. The following lists
all the items in the game. Note that some items are obviously better
than others. If you are in a lower position in a race, you will get a
better item like a Golden Mushroom compared to a Banana in first place.
---------------------------------------------------------------------
/ \
Banana - This slippery thing is probably the most boring item in Mario
Kart. It can be placed and held behind your kart. When an opponent runs
over a banana their kart slips. Watch out for those who have a banana
in their hand and do not get too close behind them. They can easily
drop a banana giving you the slip. These can be tossed forward too. To
avoid this, simply keep your eyes open and not run over one. They also
come in Triple Banana.
Green Shell - This shell is one of three in the game. A green shell can
be thrown backwards or forwards. The green shell will bounce off all
walls so watch for it to come back like a boomerang. One of the best
places to launch one of these is a narrow road. Only after it hits a
few walls will the shell disappear. Triple Green Shells can be carried
around your kart. If you want, you can just drive up to an opponent and
let their kart touch your shell. They will spin and fall. Avoiding a
green shell can be as simple as looking on your map.
Red Shell - These shells are very dangerous and can be hard to avoid.
They come in a Triple Red Shells bunch too. Once one has been launched,
it locks on to the opponent in front and follows them until they get
hit. However, once a red shell hits a wall, it goes away. A red shell
can be avoided if you turn a corner very sharply so the shell just hits
the wall or if you hold a banana behind your kart. There is no need to
toss the banana and the shell will just hit the banana (or any item
that can be held behind you) and both will go away. You can toss a red
shell behind you but it has a less effect.
Spiny Shell - These blue shells are a huge pain. Once it has been
launched, it speeds ahead of the racers targeting first place. Then
once it reaches the target (could be dropped to second place but the
shell will still hit you) it circles around them for a second before
hitting them. To avoid a shell, you must gain a speed boost and drive
away just as the shell falls down on you. It is very hard to time and
I'm not sure all karts can do it. It is also said a Bob-omb can help
avoid the Spiny Shell as well. The shell will make a blast so stay
away from it.
Fake Item Box - Place these near some real item boxes and these can be
evil. These fakes can be tossed forwards and backwards. The only way to
avoid hitting these is to look at your map and avoid the box in red.
These also don't have the ? in them.
Bob-omb - These bombs can be thrown forwards or backwards. If it hits a
kart, it will blow up but if it just hits the road, it will wait a
second or two before exploding. Anyone who is near the blast will get
damaged.
Mushroom - These are really nice and can be the key to passing the guy
in first for the win. Mushrooms give you a burst of speed and are best
to use in a shortcut or to cut a portion of the off-road. These come in
Triple Mushroom bunches too.
Golden Mushroom - Like a normal mushroom, these give a burst of speed
but with a golden mushroom, you can use it over and over again giving
you a lot of speed until it goes away.
Bullet Bill - Using this will transform your kart into Bullet Bill
which will speed you past opponents and hopefully knocking them over
along the way. There is no need to drive the bullet yourself as it
drives automatically but be prepared to take over the position again
when you turn back into a kart.
Blooper - Once it has been used, it sprays ink over everyone's kart
except the user. It will leave tiny gaps on the screen to navigate but
it is advised to just use the detailed map. The ink goes away
eventually, but to get rid of it faster gain a burst of speed (a mini-
turbo will not work). Those who are stuck with an inky screen will be
black.
Boo - This ghost will make your kart invisible for a while making you
invulnerable to all items. In addition, it will steal one of the
opponents item if it is available. So when you see a Boo coming your
way, use your item whatever it is. It's best not to give it to some
greedy opponent.
Lightning - This can be a pain if you get shocked but be happy as it
will not kill you. It will shrink you though and make you lose whatever
item you have. The user of the lightning is happy though because they
stay the same size and can easily pass anyone near them. Those in lower
positions will go back to normal size faster than the person in first
or second.
Star - This makes you invulnerable to everything. If you hit another
kart, it gets flipped over. In addition, you can drive over any off-
road and stay the same speed.
\ /
---------------------------------------------------------------------
>>----------------------------<<
| 5 / Game Courses \ [5gmcr]
|-------------------------------/-------------------------------------\
| Shortcuts /
<<-------------------------------------------------------------------<<
There are 32 courses in Mario Kart DS. Half of those are from the Nitro
Grand Prix where those are all new. The other half is from the Retro
Grand Prix where those courses have all been seen in previous Mario
Kart games. The following is a basic overview of the courses and a
simple walkthrough there. For a more strategic walkthrough of the
courses, see the Time Trails section for strategies for beating Staff
Ghosts.
Nitro Grand Prix Courses
---------------------------------------------------------------------
/ \
>> Mushroom Cup
\ Figure-8 Circuit /
\ Yoshi Falls /
\ Cheep Cheep Beach /
\ Luigi's Mansion /
>> Flower Cup
\ Desert Hills /
\ Delfino Square /
\ Waluigi Pinball /
\ Shroom Ridge /
>> Star Cup
\ DK Pass /
\ Tick-Tock Clock /
\ Mario Circuit /
\ Airship Fortress /
>> Special Cup
\ Wario Stadium /
\ Peach Gardens /
\ Bowser Castle /
\ Rainbow Road /
\ /
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Retro Grand Prix Courses
---------------------------------------------------------------------
/ \
>> Shell Cup
\ SNES Mario Circuit 1 /
\ N64 Moo Moo Farm /
\ GBA Peach Circuit /
\ GCN Luigi Circuit /
>> Banana Cup
\ SNES Donut Plains 1 /
\ N64 Frappe Snowland /
\ GBA Bowser Castle 2 /
\ GCN Baby Park /
>> Leaf Cup
\ SNES Koopa Beach 2 /
\ N64 Choco Mountain /
\ GBA Luigi Circuit /
\ GCN Mushroom Bridge /
>> Lightning Cup
\ SNES Choco Island 2 /
\ N64 Banshee Boardwalk /
\ GBA Sky Garden /
\ GCN Yoshi Circuit /
\ /
---------------------------------------------------------------------
>>----------------------------<<
| 6 / Game Modes \ [6mmmd]
|-------------------------------/-------------------------------------\
| Grand Prix | Time Trails | VS | Battle | Missions /
<<-------------------------------------------------------------------<<
Under Single Player are many game modes available. There are lots to do
and unlock which will make you spending lots of time trying to do
everything, especially to max it all out. By the term max out, I mean
by getting the 3 star ranks in everything. The Ranks go in order from
least to greatest: E, D, C, B, A, *, **, ***.
3 stars in: All Grand Prix modes [ ] and all Missions [ ]
Beat all Staff Ghosts in Time Trails [ ]
If you want, you can try yourself to get all World Record times in
every track but that seems near impossible.
There are five modes for Single Player and they will be explained in
more detail below.
>>------------------------------------------------------------------<<<
>/ a / Grand Prix <<<<
>----------------------------------------------------------(agrpx)----<
Grand Prix is where all the action is, and where must players get
started in the game. There are many cups to complete in the Grand Prix.
In Mario Kart DS, there are four tracks in each cup (see Game Courses
for more information). It's not just that simple though. There is more
to completing all 8 cups. The Grand Prix mode has four different
difficulties, 50 cc, 100 cc, 150 cc, and 150 cc Mirror Mode. The lower
the CC, the slower the kart drives at. The computer player is also
easier to race against. Things usually get more exciting and harder at
150 cc where sometimes, a win comes under pure luck. The fourth
difficulty is Mirror Mode and only 150 cc can be played in it. The
difference for this mode though is that the tracks are reversed. It
doesn't mean that you drive through the track backwards, it means that
whenever there is a right turn, it becomes a left turn. It's just like
facing a mirror but not crashing into the mirror. I found it odd to
play Mirror Mode so many times and getting used to their tracks before
going back to Time Trails to see it switched again.
There's all this talk about winning cups but how do you win? Well,
there is a point system used and whoever has the most amount of points
at the end wins. After the end of each race, points are distributed in
this way:
1st place - 10 points
2nd place - 8 points
3rd place - 6 points
4th place - 4 points
5th place - 3 points
6th place - 2 points
7th place - 1 point
8th place - 0 points
Now if everyone was at the same skill level, generally the places would
be switched quite a lot after each race. But like all racing games, the
computer who finishes at the top tends to finish at the top the second
time, and the third time. This means a simple first place two times
won't give you a clear win in the end (assuming you do average the next
two races). The points at the top will be very close so you need to
finish at the top for most races. Finish a race around 4th or 5th place
and there's some guarantee that you won't get first place in the end.
The lower the time you finish in and the higher amount of points you
get will give you a higher Rank. Don't be surprised if you get a C or
worse, a E rank even if you finish first. I got an E before for first
place but looking back, that wasn't a great Grand Prix race. Another
thing to keep in mind is that whenever you finish the race, the
computer opponents will finish in the same order when you crossed the
finish line. That could make a difference in points if you wait for
someone in a lower position to jump ahead of one in like 2nd place
before crossing the finish line.
>>------------------------------------------------------------------<<<
>/ b / Time Trails <<<<
>-------------Staff-Ghosts---------------------------------(btmtr)----<
Time Trails is a great thing to play when you've completed everything
else. It's great competition to get the best time as you want to be the
best in the world. You can discover new strategies for racing in a
certain course too.
There are some basics though in the Time Trail mode. Your ghost (saved
if you beat your old time or register a time for the first time) can be
followed very easily if you focus on the bottom screen a lot. There are
marks on the screen that shows the ghost's and your path and markings
showing what it's doing. A blue mark is normal, red is a speed boost
(if a mushroom appears, the ghost or you boosted in that area) and
yellow is drifting.
Staff Ghosts are fun to race against too. A Staff Ghost (SG for short)
is a very fast run done by Nintendo's staff and saved onto the game.
With the markings on the screen, it's very handy to copy the SG's
strategy which can save a few seconds on your current time even if you
copy what a Staff Ghost does. Now for some reason, I can never do </pre><pre id="faqspan-2">
better than the ghost (minus a few tracks) so I like to add in a few
extra drifts and mini-turbos here and there to shave some time off.
The course guides in the Game Courses section were a basic walkthrough
on the tracks but below are strategies to beat Staff Ghosts and get a
good time - shortcuts included.
There will be some terms here used a lot: MT - Mini-Turbo; SSMT -
Straight Stretch Mini-Turbo; LMT - Left Mini-Turbo; and RMT - Right
Mini-Turbo.
As I go along and write up these strategies, I will include videos for
you to see. Now these videos aren't the best quality and won't give you
huge entertainment but I'll try to use them to help you understand my
strategies that I used to beat the ghosts. These were taken from Replay
it can be a little hard to tell what I did. On all videos for most of
the lap, I chose one lap and taped the bottom screen. If you see red,
that's where I used an MT. If you see a whole bunch of yellow and red
arrows on a straightaway, I used a bunch of SSMTs. All these videos can
be found here at: www.putfile.com/cnucksgx
I am currently in the middle of uploading these videos so some will be
seen and some won't be seen. In addition, there are three tracks where
the game wouldn't save the whole replay so some of the third lap is cut
off. Don't worry though, the strategies are the same as the other two
laps. As of now (I take this sentence out when I'm done the job in the
next few updates), I am uploading a few videos again since I did them
wrong so not all videos will be played correctly. The guides that I
write up though will give links to correctly uploaded videos. Hopefully
these will help you as a thousand words won't even equal one video.
\ /
---------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------
/ Desert Hills (Flower Cup) /
---------------------
http://media.putfile.com/Desert-Hills-12548334----
| SG: 1:31:262 ROB-LGS | Video: 1:25:483 Egg 1 |
\----------------------------------------------------------------------
The first lap is where you want to get a good lap. You have no
interference of things except for a few Pokeys but those can be easily
avoided. For the first turn, RMT a few times around the huge corner.
Don't bother taking the shortcut through the sand as it's is far too
big. LMT then RMT twice. Before you reach the bump on the straightaway
with the Pokeys, use a few power-slides. Stay to the right and MT once
around each turn. Don't bother MTing around that second last turn since
you will drive to the far edge losing time. As you go past the
fireballs, go over a little hill then RMT. If you start the turbo
before the hill there are chance that you will fly in the air and maybe
drive into the sand. For the other laps, beware of the fireballs. Those
can be hard to avoid and they tend to fall down on you when you arrive.
[Shroom Spot] There are tons of hills you can boost on when the path
zigzags a lot. I think it's best to use it on any hill on the right but
be make sure the boost doesn't end before you come out of the hill. The
sand will slow you down a lot.
------------------------------
/ Delfino Square (Flower Cup) /
---------------------
http://media.putfile.com/Delfino-Square-152320----
| SG: 1:54:601 Royale | Video: 1:52:320 Egg 1 |
\----------------------------------------------------------------------
Start off with a few SSMTs and when you reach the fountain, use two
RMTs. Turbo to the left and back to the right when you reach the narrow
part. Use another RMT when the path curves. Now at the split, continue
forward since it is faster but start your MT and hold it down the
stairs. For it to work well, you have to be ready to release the R
button after you get to the bottom of the stairs. It is hard to do
(start off with some speed) and you will crash into the walls a few
times but with practice, you will get it right. RMT out of the narrow
area and LMT once.
You might already know that there is this leap of faith shortcut that
allows you to reach with boardwalk with a mushroom but it is not needed
here for Time Trials.
[Shroom Spot] RMT into the narrow alley with dirt and use your mushroom
here. If you've run out of them, release your turbo just as you hit the
dark dirt and hop over some of it. It will save a bit of time. Turn out
of the alley and LMT before the jump. It is much better to have the
bridge down since that will save tons of time but you need to be very
quick. If it is down, RMT on the bridge and release it when you exit.
LMT and RMT around the turn. You can use a turbo to the left before the
finish line too.
-------------------------------
/ Waluigi Pinball (Flower Cup) /
--------------------
http://media.putfile.com/Waluigi-Pinball-217217----
| SG: 2:23:288 Gold Mantis | Video: 2:17:217 Egg 1 |
\----------------------------------------------------------------------
Head straight into the launch. When you exit in the air, lean left for
the left turn. Hug the corner and fit in two turbos to the left. Don't
get a lot of speed for the jump since you'l fly too far. Make a left
turbo (possibly two if you can) but watch out for the pinball that
comes along in the second and third laps. RMT afterwards and hit the
jump. If you can, drift around the circle to the right but hug the
corner nonetheless. On the small straight, SSMT a bit before making two
LMTs.
[Shroom Spot] On that straight is where I used my mushroom but there
are possible better places that I haven't found yet. There are no
shortcuts in this level.
On the final stretch where the bumpers are, you can either stay to the
side avoiding the balls or SSMTing through the middle. If you choose
the side, MT to one direction and back to the middle. In any case, RMT
past the flippers and LMT twice to the finish line. Avoiding the balls
through the middle is hard to do since they roll everywhere. The
flippers can send you backwards too so avoid hitting them.
----------------------------
/ Shroom Ridge (Flower Cup) /
------------------------------
http://media.putfile.com/Shroom-Ridge----
| SG: 2:05:123 Mushmellow | Video: N/A Egg 1 |
\----------------------------------------------------------------------
This Staff Ghost is really easy to beat. All it takes are lots of MTs
around the corners. You can fit many (around 2 or 3 on the big turns)
MTs. Before you reach the tunnel, there are a few long turns so fit a
whole bunch of MTs there. After the third turn, there is a long
straightaway where you can fit around 3 SSMTs in before making that
turn to the left. After the tunnel, the path zigzags a bit so you have
plenty of spots to MT. Be careful that you don't hit the cars while
power-sliding. You will need to do those fast and have good judgement.
[Shroom Spot] You can sort of use your Mushroom anywhere. There is a
field of grass to the left of the straightaway to can use to cut with a
boost though.
-----------------------------
/ Tick Tock Clock (Star Cup) /
------------------
http://media.putfile.com/Tick-Tock-Clock-15142636----
| SG: 1:54:903 Light Dancer | Video: 1:51:426 Egg 1 |
\----------------------------------------------------------------------
Start off with a LMT on the turn. After the turn, the path is quite
wide so you can fit in some SSMTs before going onto the left side on
the clock. The gears change direction after each lap so if you had went
left or a gear went clockwise, it would do the opposite the next lap.
So, go on the left side and hit the two speed boost for the first and
third laps. You will avoid the minute hand this way. Exit the "clock"
with an MT. For the next two right turns, do an RMT and watch out for
the pendulums. Next up comes four gears one right after another. These
change direction after each lap but make sure you "go with the flow."
It is possible to do one MT on each gear. On the first and third laps,
RMT then LMT, RMT and LMT. Next, do a mini-turbo around each of the
next two turns.
Next up is a rotating stick and you will need some good judgement here.
You will want to stay on the left side to save time but the stick tends
to come your way. Just don't get hit. LMT and you will come to two
gears on each side of the track. Along with the "go with the flow"
rule, ride up the left gear on the first and last laps and ride up the
right gear on the second lap. This will save some time.
[Shroom Spot] There isn't really a perfect spot so if you mess up, just
use the mushroom. You might want to use it when you're going with the
flow for an even greater boost.
------------------------------
/ Airship Fortress (Star Cup) /
-----------------
http://media.putfile.com/Airship-Fortress-20341249----
| SG: 2:07:748 Hurricane | Video: 2:03:412 Egg 1 |
\----------------------------------------------------------------------
There's not much to say here but since the general rule for getting a
good time is to MT a lot, just MT at every corner up to the cannon.
When you land in the spiral, stay to the inside and hop your way down
while turning left. Starting a drift and keeping yourself to the inside
is hard but there's time to make a RMT as you exit the spiral. Make a
LMT before you get to the finish line. If you can, add in some SSMTs
near the beginning as you're hoping down the steps.
[Shroom Spot] Perhaps using it on a straightaway would be good like the
area just before the cannon. There isn't a specific spot.
------------------------------
/ Wario Stadium (Special Cup) /
----------------------
http://media.putfile.com/Wario-Stadium-212660----
| SG: 2:14:868 Brute | Video: 2:12:660 Egg 1 |
\----------------------------------------------------------------------
To beat this Staff Ghost, you will need to take the chance given to you
at the beginning to get a great lead. Before the big jumps tend to be
big turns. Make one or two MTs around each of these. Don't hit any of
the burners. After flying between two of them, LMT around the first
triangular burner and another past the second. Before you get to the
huge jump, line yourself up first or else you will fly off the road.
For the bumps ahead, take it steady. For the final turn, hop around it
and fit as many MTs as you can before the final jump.
[Shroom Spot] I don't have a great spot but you might like to cut
across some of the mud where the two triangular burners are.
-----------------------------
/ Rainbow Road (Special Cup) /
-----------------------
http://media.putfile.com/Rainbow-Road-214043----
| SG: 2:16:246 ROB-BLS | Video: 2:16:043 Egg 1 |
\----------------------------------------------------------------------
This is one tough ghost - although I haven't used a high speed kart in
the video it might be best to use one. There are tons of speed boosters
here in this track. If you fall off the track, just restart.
Start off straight and hit all the speed boosters. Start a drift and
hold it throughout the whole left turn as you hit all the small
boosters there. Exit the drift with your boost but don't hit the right
wall. After the loop, make a RMT staying as close to the inside as
possible. After the jump, LMT and RMT around the turn very quickly.
Before the corkscrew, do a LMT. As you exit that, power-slide to the
right and back to the left on the final turn. Head straight to the
finish line. You will need an average lap time of 45 seconds to beat
the ghost.
\ /
---------------------------------------------------------------------
>>------------------------------------------------------------------<<<
>/ c / VS <<<<
>----------------------------------------------------------(cvrss)----<
VS mode is a mode for those who don't want to race in a Grand Prix yet
still wants to race against the computer. A race starts normally
(choose your character and course) except you can control a few rules.
You can choose from 50 cc to 150 cc Mirror, the CPU difficulty, how
tracks are chosen, how to win a round (Free or say up to 5 wins or
matches) and the option of having teams or not. If you choose to have
teams, they are made randomly.
There isn't much to say here but it's a great way to practice your
skills.
>>------------------------------------------------------------------<<<
>/ d / Battle <<<<
>----------Arenas------------------------------------------(dbttl)----<
Not all racing games offer a Battle Mode but Mario Kart DS does. There
are two types of Battle Mode in this game, Balloon Battle and Shine
Runners. Note that the karts chosen are the Standard karts of the
character chosen.
In Balloon Battle, you have to pop opponent's balloons and win by being
the last one standing. You can use items to hit others too. You get a
few extra balloons to use too. You get to hold a maximum of three
balloons at a time and if you have less, you can blow up a new balloon
buy either blowing into the microphone or holding Select (takes slower
though). However, in order to inflate a balloon, you must not be on the
accelerator. It makes sense though, it's hard to blow a balloon and
drive a kart at the same time and it's very distracting.
Some tips on playing Balloon Battle for you though. It might be best to
stick with two balloons at a time. If you get a mushroom, you can zoom
by others and pick up a third rather than putting that balloon to
waste. Secondly, if you have to item with you and you run into a group,
run. Chances are at least one of them has an item ready to use on you
and you are defenceless. Don't get too near a kart in the first place.
And finally, always keep an eye on the map. This can save a balloon
from being popped if you watch out for shells and other dangers on the
bottom screen.
There is also the second Shine Runners mode. You have to collect as
many of these shines as possible which look like big golden coins.
Whoever is the last person standing wins. Now you can make your
opponents lose their coins by hitting them with items. Afterwards, you
can steal the coin after it has been knocked loose but make sure
someone else doesn't come along and take it.
There are eliminations every thirty seconds. The players with the last
amount of shines will be eliminated.
Battle Arenas
---------------------------------------------------------------------
/ \
There are few Battle Arenas around and some have certain features of
their own.
Nintendo DS
This battle is placed on the surface on a Nintendo DS. The screens and
buttons are flat so don't worry about a bumpy surface. There are Item
Boxes on the bottom and top screens. Beware! You can fall off the
Nintendo DS and possibly end up on another game system.
Twilight House
This house isn't all that big but the items can get very hectic. There
are many rooms around a middle room that can't be entered (possibly the
chimney?). Certain rooms have Item Boxes in them in a certain pattern.
You can go outside of the rooms onto the side but beware that the
narrow strip is of course very narrow and there are no walls.
Palm Shore
This is also another small stage that is split up into different
islands which one can be accessed by crossing the water. Then again,
it's really just one island as the tide goes in and out. There are Item
Boxes in the centre island as well as in the water. Don't go exploring
searching for other islands out there because you won't get far and
will lose a balloon. The water is a great way to trap opponents because
everyone is going so slowly.
Tart Top
This stage is pretty straight forward. You're in a yummy tart that has
strawberries in cream and everything. These cream things are located
around the "top". If you run into one, you're screen will be covered
with cream but like the Blooper, can be taken away with a speed burst.
This is easily done in this arena too because all you need to do is to
hit the dash plate to gain some air and to wash away the ink. This is
also the only way to get Item Boxes - by hitting them in the air.
Block Fort
This level is great. It's multi levelled and huge. There are four
"forts" and they are all connected by bridges. I like to get an item
and wait on the top floor. If there's someone to bully, I take my item
with me and jump down to give them a surprise visit.
Pipe Plaza
This is a fun and small level. It has two levels and the only way to
get to the top is through the pipes. Well, there are two slopes to lead
you up there but it's not as odd. Item Boxes are everywhere so be
careful. Unlike other arenas, you can't fall off here.
\ /
---------------------------------------------------------------------
>>------------------------------------------------------------------<<<
>/ e / Missions <<<<
>----------------------------------------------------------(emsss)----<
There are many different missions you can do in this mode. There are 6
levels and an extra seventh one that increase in difficulty. There are
eight missions in each level and a boss at the end for a total of 63.
Each mission has a different objective and it isn't as easy as
finishing the race. Make sure you read what you have to do to complete
it.
In this walkthrough, I have written up how to complete each and every
mission later on that has its own section.
In order to play the next level, you must beat the boss in the previous
level and the boss can be unlocked by completing all the missions in
that same level. On the bright side, you can do those missions in any
order. These are possible to get 3 stars in as well.
>>----------------------------<<
| 7 / Missions \ [7mssn]
|-------------------------------/-------------------------------------\
| /
<<-------------------------------------------------------------------<<
The following will be a guide to complete all seven levels of Mission
Mode. Note: Level 7 can be unlocked by getting at least a Star (*)
rating on all the previous levels.
Note: You must know what an "MT" is and how to use them. It stands for
mini-turbo and is explained in your instruction booklet. Another term
for it is called a power-slide.
.:Level 1:..
| 1-1 \ Mario \ Figure-8 Circuit \ 0:35:000 \
---------------------------------------------
Drive through all 5 numbered gates in order!
This mission is quite easy being the first. There are five gates
located around the track in the middle. Use the mushrooms to give you
that extra speed boost.
| 1-2 \ Peach \ GBA Peach Circuit \ 0:30:000 \
----------------------------------------------
Collect all 15 coins!
This is pretty straight forward. There are coins in the middle of the
track so just follow the path. It wastes a lot of time going back to a
coin though so if you missed one, it's probably best to just retry the
mission.
| 1-3 \ Yoshi \ Yoshi Falls \ 0:45:000 \
----------------------------------------
Destroy all 10 item boxes!
This mission is really easy. All you have to do is to hit all ten item
boxes. They all give mushrooms so use them to get to the next item box
quicker.
| 1-4 \ Wario \ Cheep Cheep Beach \ 0:40:000 \
----------------------------------------------
Get the Star and use it to hit 5 Cheep Cheeps!
After a few tries, this shouldn't be too hard. Get an Item Box quick
and get a Star. From there, follow the path of Cheep Cheeps slowly
hitting them along the way. Remember that Wario's kart is hard to
handle.
| 1-5 \ Toad \ Nintendo DS \ 0:30:000 \
---------------------------------------
Drive through all 6 numbered gates in order!
Start off straight and head up to the top screen, then turn left and
follow the gates back down to the bottom screen around the edge of the
DS.
| 1-6 \ Luigi \ Luigi's Mansion \ 0:45:000 \
--------------------------------------------
Drive out of the mansion... backward!
This mission is alright if you dodge the walls. Remember that B is to
go backwards and use the opposite button to turn. This can be easily
done in less than 45 seconds.
| 1-7 \ Donkey Kong \ N64 Moo Moo Farm \ 0:35:000 \
---------------------------------------------------
Collect all 20 coins!
The only hard part about this mission might be the bumps in the road.
Stay on course collecting all the coins in a row. Hit the Item Box at
the beginning for Triple Mushrooms.
| 1-8 \ Mario \ SNES Mario Circuit 1 \ 0:45:000 \
-------------------------------------------------
Perform 4 power-slide turbo boosts in 1 lap!
This is quite easy to do. Remember how to use MTs quickly and you'll
breeze through this. MT at all turns for a fast time.
| 1-Boss \ Yoshi \ N/A \ 3:00:000 \
-----------------------------------
Use Mushroom to crash into the Big Bully and knock him off the stage!
This first boss battle is really easy. You have three balloons with you
and don't get pushed off the stage. Get the Item Box in the middle
containing Triple Mushrooms and use that to ram into the Big Bully. One
time is enough.
.:Level 2:..
| 2-1 \ Wario \ Delfino Square \ 0:55:000 \
-------------------------------------------
Crash into all 10 wooden crates and destroy every one!
This is a slightly harder than the other missions. Hit the three boxes
in front of you then go onto the dock. Hit the first one and the next
two further down. Drive backwards back onto the track and hit the rest
over there. For the tenth box, drive into the little gap to the right
and hit the last one.
| 2-2 \ Yoshi \ Figure-8 Circuit \ 0:30:000 \
---------------------------------------------
Collect all 10 coins!
This stage is quite easy. Start out backwards until you get the first
coin. After that, just stay in the middle and collect the rest.
| 2-3 \ Donkey Kong \ SNES Donut Plains 1 \ 0:45:000 \
------------------------------------------------------
Drive though all 5 numbered gates in order!
Turn right for the first gate and follow the path. Use the mushroom and
cut the grass while passing under the second gate. Drive through the
third gate. Then, use the next three mushrooms to pass under the last
two gates.
| 2-4 \ Luigi \ Luigi's Mansion \ 0:35:000 \
--------------------------------------------
Destroy all 5 item boxes!
Another easy task. You're faster than the boxes so drive up to them,
take their mushrooms and boost up to the next one. Repeat the process
until you get them all.
| 2-5 \ Peach \ Cheep Cheep Beach \ 0:30:000 \
----------------------------------------------
Collect all 20 coins!
This is also sort of easy but the hardest part here is the jump. Line
yourself up properly and make sure you land on a coin.
| 2-6 \ Wario \ Desert Hills \ 0:55:000 \
-------------------------------------------
Use Bob-ombs to destroy all 5 Pokeys!
Getting all the Pokeys within the time limit isn't hard but getting 3
stars on the mission is. Anyways, there are plenty of Item Boxes for
you and the Pokeys move slowly so you can hit them easily if you have
average aiming skills. Make sure you don't blow yourself up in the
process.
| 2-7 \ Toad \ GCN Luigi Circuit \ 0:55:000 \
---------------------------------------------
Drive through all 10 numbered gates in order!
This is easy to do. Make sure you look at the numbered gate because
they aren't exactly lined up. You will have to zigzag around them. For
the tenth gate, look up when you're on the boosters. The gate is at the
top.
| 2-8 \ Peach \ Baby Park \ 0:55:000 \
--------------------------------------
Perform 6 power-slide turbo boosts in 3 laps!
For this task, use MTs only at the turns. There are two per lap which
makes a total of six. Aim for the inside Item Box when you drift as
that will result in a corner well turned.
| 2-Boss \ Mario \ N/A \ 5:00:000 \
-----------------------------------
Hit the Eyerok's eyeball 3 times with shells!
This mission can be hard. For the first two hits, get shells and wait
for the eyeball the face you. Hit it with the shell. Do this for the
second time too. For the third time, be quick. The Eyerok will jump
over the shell if you're not quick.
.:Level 3:..
| 3-1 \ Wario \ Waluigi Pinball \ 0:50:000 \
--------------------------------------------
Destroy all 5 item boxes!
It's hard to get a good rank on this seeing as the boxes move around
too much. It is very possible to finish within the time limit though.
Look at your map to see where all the boxes are.
| 3-2 \ Bowser \ Delfino Square \ 0:50:000 \
--------------------------------------------
Drive through all 5 numbered gates in order... backward!
This is easier as it sounds. Bowser goes slow enough that it gives you
time to know what button to press to turn the right way. When you get
to the square, head straight for number three and turn around (left)
for gates four and five. It's easy to do and remember that hitting the
walls wastes some time.
| 3-3 \ Luigi \ GCN Luigi Circuit \ 0:25:000 \
----------------------------------------------
Collect all 15 coins while avoiding the Chain Chomp!
This can be hard or easy. Follow the coins for a simple straight line
then turn left and go around the Chain Chomp. Hop and drift slightly to
get that small turn to turn a bit more. It's very possible to just get
all 15 circling the Chain Chomp without getting hit. If you do get hit,
just restart - it will take too long to get the coins again.
| 3-4 \ Peach \ Yoshi Falls \ No time limit \
---------------------------------------------
Reach the finish before Yoshi!
This is just an easy straight forward race. You have to drive through
the waterfalls so don't fall off and pick up an item along the way. You
might need a Star to get through the second waterfall quickly without
falling off. Yoshi is easy to beat.
| 3-5 \ Yoshi \ Pipe Plaza \ 0:45:000 \
---------------------------------------
Drive through all 8 numbered gates in order!
Without a guide, this will take at least two tries. One to find out
where all the gates are and two to actually finish the mission. Start
off straight past the one and the five. We'll head back to the five
later. Continue through the pipe and get the two and turn right for
three. Then turn all right again for four and head into the pipe. You
will come out in front of the five. Turn right for a six and right
again for seven as you head up the ramp. Go slowly here. Next, you
should see eight from above to drop down at an angle and go under
eight.
| 3-6 \ Luigi \ N64 Moo Moo Farm \ 1:05:000 \
---------------------------------------------
Hit Monty Moles with shells 5 times!
You need good timing for this hard mission. Stand where an Item Box
would re-spawn and fire Green Shells at the closest mole from there.
Timing is everything.
| 3-7 \ Donkey Kong \ Shroom Ridge \ 1:10:000 \
-----------------------------------------------
Perform 10 power-slide turbo boosts in 1 lap!
It is really easy to pull off more than 10 MTs in one lap. As this is
Shroom Ridge, huge turns are everywhere so you can pull off more than
one power-slide turbo boosts per turn. Donkey Kong has bad handling so
it might be best to follow the line that separates the sides on the
roads. Don't become road kill either.
| 3-8 \ Mario \ Twilight House \ 1:05:000 \
-------------------------------------------
Collect all 20 coins!
This mission is harder than it seems. First, head straight and turn
left to the outer edge collecting two coins. Turn right into the next
room and right again to get a forth lone coin. Head backwards, turn
around and continue straight out of the room. Get the coin (5) on the
outside, avoid a banana (these will make you lose your coins) and turn
right into the room. Follow the path of coins and turn back out of the
room and head for the corner of the Twilight House. Get the eighth coin
and drive past a banana after collecting a ninth coin. Turn into the
next room before continuing and collect two more coins around the Stop
signs. Exit the room. Zigzag around two lines of bananas and enter the
room. Collect the single coin and turn left into the room with coins
around a circle. Collect them all for a total of twenty!
| 3-Boss \ Toad \ Baby Park \ No time limit \
---------------------------------------------
Reach the finish before Goomboss!
This boss battle can be hard. Drive normally but watch out for the
Goombas and mushrooms on the ground. Also watch out for Goomboss
himself because he will push you out of the way. He will stop at the
finish line for a second or two so you can catch up. Stay to the inside
and only drift at the turns and not on the straights. As a caution,
Goomboss will jump the hedge on the third lap.
.:Level 4:..
| 4-1 \ Wario \ DK Pass \ No time limit \
-----------------------------------------
Reach the finish before Donkey Kong!
You are driving in the opposite direction in DK Pass. Watch out for
snowmen and snowballs and use the Triple Mushrooms from boxes to
increase your speed. Beating Donkey Kong isn't too much of a challenge
either. There are some parts of the track where you can cut off.
| 4-2 \ Yoshi \ Palm Shore \ 2:00:000 \
---------------------------------------
Blast 20 crabs!
Using Green Shells you get from the boxes, just hit 20 crabs. Watch out
for the tide as that can slow you down. It might be best to stay near
the middle (even better on top of where an item box would re-spawn) and
just fire away shells. You could always resort to having shells circle
your kart and driving up to each crab.
| 4-3 \ Mario \ Shroom Ridge \ No time limit \
----------------------------------------------
Reach the finish before the red car!
This mission is really easy. Just use a whole bunch of MTs around the
turns and you'll do fine. Make sure you don't fall off too! It's very
possible to pass the red car near the beginning and after that's it's
just holding the lead for the rest of the lap.
| 4-4 \ Wario \ Desert Hills \ 0:45:000 \
-----------------------------------------
Drive through all 7 numbered gates in order!
First, drive through (1) and get an item box. Cut through the sand
using three mushrooms for two and three. Go back to the road and drive
under gate four and get three more mushrooms further on. Use it to hop
over the sand hills for gates six and seven.
| 4-5 \ Bowser \ GBA Bowser Castle 2 \ 0:30:000 \
-------------------------------------------------
Collect all 15 coins. If you get squished by a Thwomp, you fail!
Start off with a boost and go straight for the first eight coins. For
the rest, wait until all the Thwomps fall down and as they are going
back up, drive straight under them for all fifteen.
| 4-6 \ Donkey Kong \ N64 Choco Mountain \ 1:10:000 \
-----------------------------------------------------
Break all 10 item boxes while avoiding the Fake Items!
This is pretty simple. When ever you see item boxes coming up, look at
the map to see which is the real one. Then, simply drive through it.
Use the mushrooms you get for a speed boost. Donkey Kong isn't that
fast so you have plenty of time to prepare for the next item box you
want to break.
| 4-7 \ Toad \ Waluigi Pinball \ 0:45:000 \
-------------------------------------------
Drive through all 10 gates!
This allows you to get creative with a strategy you want to use to go
under all of these gates. The best one is probably to go straight for
the first two then go under the rest of the gates in a figure eight
pattern. The gates are all on the sides so the chances of getting hit
by a pinball is less but keep your eyes open.
| 4-8 \ Luigi \ GBA Luigi Circuit \ 1:00:000 \
----------------------------------------------
Perform 9 power-slide turbo boosts in 1 lap!
Before you start, get to know the track a bit. Don't use a turbo boost
at every little turn because you might end up on the outside edge of
the track and it's best to stay to the inside. You can do one MT at
each turn and still get nine done by the end of the lap. Don't worry,
one minute should be plenty of time.
| 4-Boss \ Peach \ N/A \ 5:00:000 \
-----------------------------------
Collect 50 coins while avoiding King Boo!
I don't have a great strategy in collecting the coins but here's the
basic outline. The coins are placed around lava pits so you can collect
all the coins in one ring with one drift. Second, there is no way to
avoid King Boo from stealing some of your coins but to get them back,
find Boo and ram into him. If he has his back facing you and you ram
into him, he will turn around. Ram into his front to get the coins
back. You can then go around other rings collecting coins. Getting
coins stolen won't make you lose a balloon. The only way that can
happen is if you fall into the lava. Completing the mission in around
one and a half minutes should net you 3 stars.
.:Level 5:..
| 5-1 \ Peach \ Peach Gardens \ No time limit \
-----------------------------------------------
Reach the finish before the stray Chain Chomp!
This mission is quite easy. Hit every Item Box you see for a Star or
Triple Mushrooms. If you get mushrooms, use them wisely and boost over
the gardens to save some time. You shouldn't have problems with this
mission by now.
| 5-2 \ Donkey Kong \ N64 Frappe Snowland \ 0:30:000 \
------------------------------------------------------
Drive backward and collect 15 coins! If you hit a snowman, you fail!
This level is easy to finish if you remember to turn the right way.
You're going in a circle turning to the left. Go slowly and restart if
you have missed a coin. The turns get sharper near the end so watch out
for that.
| 5-3 \ Toad \ SNES Koopa Beach 2 \ 0:35:000 \
----------------------------------------------
Destroy all 5 item boxes!
Oh, how I hate this mission. Start off with a boost and hit the first
Item Box that is trailing. Get it quickly and grab the mushroom. You
have to be fast to get the second box using the mushroom. The other
three boxes will now go over the water. Don't fall into the water now.
Wait for the other boxes to come back over land before grabbing the
rest. They will turn to the left without warning at one point so be
careful.
| 5-4 \ Bowser \ GBA Bowser Castle 2 \ 1:05:000 \
------------------------------------------------
Drive through all 10 numbered gates in order!
Start off with the first gate straight ahead. The second is right after
the boost plate not too far ahead. Go under (3) and avoid the Thwomp.
Hit the second boost plate and cross the road at a diagonal to hit (4)
without jumping in the air which saves time. Next, turn right and jump
across the pool of lava, avoiding the fire balls for gate number five.
Six and seven might be a problem as your chances of getting hit are
higher. You have no choice for (8) as you have to take a jump. Number
nine is easy as long as you turn properly and just avoid the two
Thwomps for ten.
| 5-5 \ Mario \ GCN Mushroom Bridge \ 0:55:000 \
------------------------------------------------
Complete 1 lap in the opposite direction within the time limit!
You aren't driving backwards, just going in the opposite direction.
Some of the road has been shut off by gates and watch out for on coming
cars and trucks. Those are painful to get hit by (try pausing when you
get hit and see the frozen scene). Use the mushrooms from the boxes for
a boost. You will also learn a shortcut if you haven't already in this
level. Turn left and go uphill when you see the turn in. Run over one
of three mushrooms to drive across the dirt. Continue to the finish.
| 5-6 \ Yoshi \ Tart Top \ 0:45:000 \
-------------------------------------
Collect all 18 coins!
This is one interesting mission. Start off with a boost and turn right
around a ball of cream for a few coins. Follow the path up the slope
for some more coins and hit one of three coins at the top. When you
land in a different spot, repeat the process two more times for all 18
coins.
| 5-7 \ Toad \ DK Pass \ 0:45:000 \
-----------------------------------
Drive through all 8 numbered gates in order!
The gates here are quite easy to spot. Just watch out for on coming
snowballs and bumps in the road. There are more snowballs than usual to
make life difficult.
| 5-8 \ Luigi \ Mario Circuit \ No time limit \
-----------------------------------------------
Reach the finish before Mario!
Finally another race! This race is slightly easy if you are careful
with the more-than-usual Goombas and Piranha Plants. If you ever get
mushrooms, there is a path you can cut off just before the turn where
the plants spit out fire.
| 5-Boss \ Wario \ N/A \ 5:00:000 \
-----------------------------------
Hit the Big Bob-omb with 3 Bob-ombs!
This little boss battle is a bit fun. From the start, quickly grab an
Item Box and blast Bob-omb for the first time. Next, he will drop down
two Item Boxes and a lone Bob-omb in a triangle shape. Grab any box and
the Bob-omb you get from it. Stay away from the lone Bob-omb (the item,
this is getting confusing) so it doesn't hit you. If you're lucky, Bob-
omb will actually hit himself which counts as a hit for you since he
was too close to the blast. The third hit is a little trickier so aim
your bomb well.
.:Level 6:..
| 6-1 \ Luigi \ Bowser Castle \ 0:30:000 \
------------------------------------------
Drive backward across the spinning bridge! If you fall, you're out!
This task is quite simple. The bridge will push you down because of
your weight so move to the top whenever you start to fall. Remember
that you're going slow and backwards so remind yourself to push the
opposite button.
| 6-2 \ Wario \ Airship Fortress \ 0:55:000 \
------------------------------------------
Get Stars and run over 15 Rocky Wrenches!
Rocky Wrenches are the real name for them, not these moles I said
earlier. The task is simple but it's harder than it sounds. There are a
few Item Boxes scattered around the small area and tons of Rocky
Wrenches around that poke up to the ground and down. I like to go back
and forth hoping that the moles will eventually meet up with me. It's
also best to have an extra Star with you so that when your current one
vanishes, you still have another on deck rather than driving to a new
Item Box.
| 6-3 \ Yoshi \ SNES Choco Island 2 \ 0:45:000 \
------------------------------------------------
Collect all 30 coins!
Start off by following the path and run over the mushroom to take the
shortcut. Coins will be placed in lines of three so follow the path
collecting them. There are also 3 coins in the chocolate lake. You'll
have to take a right turn carefully to collect the next few. Make sure
you don't ride on any of the bumps because that will slow you down
greatly and cause you to miss some coins. Continue to the end of the
lap.
| 6-4 \ Mario \ Block Fort \ 2:00:000 \
------------------------------------------
Destroy all 10 item boxes!
This mission was a pain to find a strategy for. Anyways, the boxes are
in a certain area. Start off with the Item Box you already see and you
should follow it to the red fort. Now, for every fort, there are two
Item Boxes around it - one on the bottom floor (or second if you count
to very bottom of the whole course) and one on the top. Go to the red
fort and collect those two boxes for a total of three. Next, cross a
bridge into the next fort and collect those two boxes. Continue on for
all four forts. There is one however where the top box will fall back
down and go back up the ramp and repeats the process - just a warning
for you.
Now one at the beginning plus two for each of the forts equals nine, so
where's the tenth box? There is one box going around the four bridges
so whenever you so happen to cross a bridge into the next fort and you
spot it, go up and collect it.
| 6-5 \ Peach \ GBA Sky Garden \ 0:50:000 \
-------------------------------------------
Drive through all 8 numbered gates in order!
This mission also needs some strategy. Pick up any of the three Item
Boxes from the start to get three mushrooms. Don't use them right away!
Cross under the first gate though. For the second, boost and use the
ramp to get to a few clouds with gate number two. Use the second
mushroom to get yourself back on course. Take a few left turns before
coming to gate number three. After you pass under it, use your last
mushroom and drive off the ramp for a shortcut. The Staff Ghosts uses
this shortcut in its run. Before coming to (5) there will be another
Item Box with three more mushrooms. It's important that you hit it.
Once again, only use the mushrooms when I tell you to. There will be
(6) ahead following a right turn. It's alone on some clouds (yet
another shortcut) so use two mushrooms to get past it. Number seven is
nearby too. You can use your last mushroom before the final jump which
will quickly send you flying into number eight.
| 6-6 \ Yoshi \ GCN Yoshi Circuit \ 1:00:000 \
----------------------------------------------
Perform 14 power-slide turbo boosts in 1 lap!
You've done (and hopefully finished quite well) these types of missions
before so this shouldn't be a problem. Just do a power-slide whenever
you see a turn, just as long as it won't slow you down greatly.
Whenever you see a huge turn, try and MT more than once. I finished the
mission with triple stars and got in 14 power-slides so even reaching
the minimum is alright. The shortcut here is possible with one MT (see
Yoshi Circuit under Time Trials for more information).
| 6-7 \ Toad \ Tick Tock Clock \ 1:30:000 \
-------------------------------------------
Collect all 40 coins!
Wow, 40 coins is a lot to collect. I don't have a great strategy but
here are some things to keep in mind which might give you a strategy.
The coins are shaped in a star (plus two lines of coins for a total of
six in the middle) and you can go from one end to another passing two
different lines on coins. Just go back and forth. The clock hands will
be moving in one direction so collect the coins in open area where
you're sure no hand will hit you... yet. If you see a hand coming (keep
in mind one is short and one is long) get yourself out of there! If you
get hit with the rod, you will lose coins and they will scatter.
| 6-8 \ Bowser \ Peach Gardens \ No time limit \
------------------------------------------------
Reach the finish before Peach!
In this race, you're going in the opposite direction. The race is
really easy if you use your items correctly. You can get Stars and
Mushrooms and when you do get them, only use them to take shortcuts
through the grass. Some areas of the track are marked off too so don't
drive into a dead end. If you do, restart the mission. Mushrooms are
more useful than Stars since they give you a boost so be hopeful you
get those instead.
| 6-Boss \ Luigi \ N/A \ 5:00:000 \
-----------------------------------
Use Mushroom boosts to hit Chief Chilly and knock him off the stage 3
times!
There are four Item Boxes on the stage for you to use - one is in the
middle. Quickly get three mushrooms and keep pushing Chief Chilly off
the stage. You should be able to get him off once using three
mushrooms. The same goes with the second time. For the third, let
Chilly hit you (run into him). When you get sent back, use a Mushroom
to send Chief Chilly backwards, or forwards from your point of view.
Keep pushing him near the edge then give him the final blow for
victory. For those curious if you just followed the strategy used for
one and two for number three, Chief Chilly will jump, avoiding you and
you will drive yourself off the stage.
.:Level 7:..
As said before, Level 7 can be unlocked by placing one star or higher
on all the previous missions.
| 7-1 \ Peach \ Rainbow Road \ 1:00:000 \
-----------------------------------------
Perform 6 power-slide turbo boosts in 1 lap!
Rainbow Road barely has any turns are safe to MT but there are some.
Use your judgement on where you can use boosts and where you can't. I
don't advise you to do them on the straights. I had 4 or 5 done before
I reached the corkscrew so you should have around that many at that
spot. After the corkscrew, there are two turns where you can finish off
for your 6 power-slide total.
| 7-2 \ Mario \ Bowser Castle \ No time limit \
-----------------------------------------------
Reach the finish before Bowser!
This is just a simple win or lose race. Parts of the track are marked
off with gates so you will be forced to take a certain route. Two of
these changes are: You must use the shortcut made in this level and do
not drive across the spinning bridge. Instead, jump off to the ground
below. You get Stars and Triple Mushrooms from the Item Boxes.
| 7-3 \ Donkey Kong \ Tick Tock Clock \ 1:30:000 \
--------------------------------------------------
Complete 2 laps within the time limit!
This mission gives you lots of time to finish. It is just a normal run
through the track twice here are some notes. One, you will hit only two
Item Boxes per lap that give Triple Mushrooms so use them wisely.
Second, instead of the usual one pendulum that swings back and forth,
there are now three. These are painful. Thirdly, Donkey Kong's kart is
horrible at drifting so only use power-slides when needed. Remember
that the gears change direction after each lap so don't drive against
the direction it is going. That will slow you down.
| 7-4 \ Toad \ Mario Circuit \ 2:00:000 \
-----------------------------------------
Use shells to defeat all 30 Goombas within the time limit!
Start off by standing over an Item Box to get Triple Green Shells (red
would make life so much easier). Right after you get them, just fire
them all off hoping they will hit a Goomba. Repeat until most are gone,
then move onto the next area. Keep firing off shells, moving onto the
next area when there are little amounts left. For those that are left,
drive up to them with shells and hit them.
| 7-5 \ Wario \ Wario Stadium \ 0:55:000 \
------------------------------------------
Collect all 20 coins!
By now, these type of missions are alike. You just drive through the
course collecting coins. In Wario Stadium, a few rings of fire have
been added and a coin placed in the middle. These appear after a jump
so one thing to keep in mind is to line yourself up with the coins
before going to collect them. If you miss a coin, there is no time to
go back so just restart. Also, if you hit a burner, you will lose coins
so just restart as well.
| 7-6 \ Mario \ Nintendo DS \ 0:11:000 \
-----------------------------------------
Drive through all 8 numbered gates in order!
Eleven seconds is an odd time limit to set for a mission. Anyways, I
can say the whole strategy in this one sentence - make one long drift
that allows you to go under all eight gates.
| 7-7 \ Bowser \ Airship Fortress \ 0:50:000 \
----------------------------------------------
Drive backward and collect all 12 coins! If you hit a burner, you fail!
For this mission, take your time! You will have to zigzag back and
forth around boxes collecting coins. Go slow and steady and don't break
any of the boxes. Continue this until you collect all eight coins in
the area. For the final four, you will have to zigzag slowly for them,
avoiding the burner.
| 7-8 \ Luigi \ N64 Banshee Boardwalk \ 1:05:000 \
--------------------------------------------------
Break all 10 item boxes while avoiding the Fake Items!
This mission is just like the one on Choco Mountain. Look on the map to
see which is the real one and which is the fake. Use the mushrooms you
get from the real boxes to save time. This round however is a little
harder. There are bananas placed out so make sure you avoid them. After
you get your sixth box, save the mushroom for inside the haunted house
- or whatever the house is called. Go to the left instead of the right
and just your mushroom right before the huge hole. Hop the little gap
and there will be your seventh box. This saves lots of seconds rather
than going to the right side. Before you exit the house, you have to
around wall of Fake Items for your eight box. Continue to the end of
the track for two more boxes.
| 7-Boss \ Mario \ GCN Mushroom Bridge \ No time limit \
--------------------------------------------------------
Reach the finish before Wiggler!
This is it, the final mission! It's a simple three lap race but you
must avoid everything - unless you have a Star. There isn't a real
strategy for this because where the trucks and Item Boxes are located
varies depending on the person's time. Keep in mind that: The Item
Boxes on the road are all Stars and only use a Star when you need to
(before you plan to flip a truck etc.). Second, in order to get a fast
time, you must flip trucks over. Some, have Item Boxes under them which
carry Mushrooms. Lastly, I don't advise you to take the shortcut. I was
able to get 3 stars on the mission without using the shortcut even
once. Plus, I think it saves time.
Other than that, it's a normal race! Good luck!
Well, congratulations! You've completed Mission Mode. Give yourself a
pat on the back and move on to the next thing.
>>----------------------------<<</pre><pre id="faqspan-3">
| 8 / Nintendo WFC \ [8nwfc]
|-------------------------------/-------------------------------------
\| Set-Up | Friend Codes | Emblems | Nintendo WFC Match
/
<<-------------------------------------------------------------------<<
Nintendo's Wi-Fi Connection is a new and fun thing. Mario Kart DS is
one of the first games to use this feature that let's you to go online
and play others. There are a few things about the WFC that will be
covered. Some are Mario Kart DS related while others are just general
information that can also be used for other Wi-Fi compatible games.
>>------------------------------------------------------------------<<<
>/ a / Connection Set-up <<<<
>----------------------------------------------------------(acnsu)----<
In order to connect to the internet, you need a Wireless Router or
Nintendo's Wi-Fi USB Connector. Below will be steps to help set up your
connection.
You have three slots that you can save connection data onto. This means
if you go back and forth between two places, you don't have to set up
everything each time. Not that it takes a long time though - it only
takes a few seconds to finish the job.
Choose an empty slot to save your connection first. Then (it's easier
this way) choose "Search for an Access Point" which will search for a
point nearby that you can connect to. Afterwards, some results will
come up and choose the router you're using. If it's blue and unlocked,
you can connect to it just like that (you might need to change some
features in your router's setting though). If it's red and locked, you
need the WEP code in order to connect. Once you've selected your
choice, it will do a test to see if the connection is good or not. If
the test is successful, you're done!
When you look at your options after you've gotten a slot filled, there
will be information you can change. It's best to leave Auto-obtain IP
Address and DNS to Yes.
>>------------------------------------------------------------------<<<
>/ b / Friend Codes <<<<
>----------------------------------------------------------(bfrcd)----<
Every game will give you a different friend code which you can share
with your friends. In Mario Kart DS, there is an option that lets you
play the friends you've added.
If you know someone's friend code that you want to add (they must add
you as well for this to work), choose Register Friend Code under the
Friend Code option. Input their 12-digit code and their temporary name.
The correct name will replace the temporary name after you race them.
If you want to see your code to give to others, choose Confirm Friend
Code.
All your friends can be viewed from the Records page in the game.
>>------------------------------------------------------------------<<<
>/ c / Emblems <<<<
>----------------------------------------------------------(cembl)----<
An emblem can be created and used to identify who you are. It's like a
badge that you can wear. To edit your emblem (this will be seen online
by those you race - don't make inappropriate emblems) go to Options ->
Edit -> Emblem -> Paint.
Here, you can draw on the touch screen with your stylus or colour each
square one by one with your controls. You can adjust the thickness of
the pen from 1x1, 2x2 and 3x3 squares. The same goes with the eraser.
You can also fill a certain area of you emblem with a certain colour.
The game also has some preset shapes you can work with too. Select the
circle option on the left side of the touch screen. You have 15
different colours to work with here. It's like a simple Paint program!
When you're done editing your emblem, press Start or select Quit with
your stylus.
If you press Select, you can also see what it looks like with your
emblem on the karts. Press L and R to change karts.
>>------------------------------------------------------------------<<<
>/ d / Nintendo WFC Match <<<<
>----------------------------------------------------------(dnwfm)----<
When you are all set up and ready to play online, choose Nintendo WFC
Match in the options. It will then connect you online. In Mario Kart
DS, you can race others through four different options.
Friends - You will play those who have you on each other's Friend
Lists.
Rivals - You will play people with the same skill level as you. It is
told that you are matched up with people who have accomplished the same
things you have in the Single Player game, not just through your online
record.
Regional - You will play people in the same region, not country, as
you. Currently, there are three Regions - North America (blue), Europe
(green) and Japan (red).
Worldwide - This option just connects you to anybody in the world.
It will take a while to search for 3 other players. Sometimes you won't
even get a four player race, just three or two. Here's how wins and
losses are given.
The general rule is this: You get the amount of wins that you've beat
and you get the amount of losses that you've been beaten by. Now, the
amount of people playing starts from after everyone has selected their
character and kart. If someone disconnects (which is very bad
sportsmanship) during the time people are selecting their karts and it
is a four player race, it suddenly turns into a three player race. If
someone disconnects and the race finishes with at least one other
person, wins and losses will be given on how many players started from
the beginning. If there is one person left, the race just ends and that
person left will have their record unchanged. Now, whenever you
disconnect on purpose by turning off your DS, you will automatically
finish last and receive losses. If it is an error or you lose signal,
your record will remain unchanged (like when everyone else disconnects
and you're left standing alone).
There are rumours going around about losing loses but I won't go into
that.
Here are some scenarios of how wins and losses are given.
You finish in first in a four player race: 3 wins, 0 losses
You finish in first in a three player race: 2 wins, 0 losses
You finish in second in a four player race: 2 wins, 1 loss
You finish in third in a three player race: 0 wins, 2 losses
You finish in fourth in a four player race: 0 wins, 3 losses
You finish in second in a four player race, but one player disconnected
during the race: 2 wins, 1 loss
Everyone disconnects except for you: 0 wins, 0 losses
You get disconnected by an error: 0 wins, 0 losses
You disconnect on purpose in a four player race: 0 wins, 3 losses
Away from wins and losses, this is how track selection works. Everyone
selects the track they want to play on. The rule is, the majority wins.
If it's a tie, the track is randomly selected from the two or four
choices.
Here are some scenarios on how the track is selected:
L1, L2, L3, L1: L1 due to majority
L1, L2, L3, L4: Random due to tie
L1, L1, L2, L2: Random due to tie
I think you get the point.
Have fun racing online and play fair!
>>----------------------------<<
| 9 / Tips and Things to Unlock \ [9tttu]
|-------------------------------/-------------------------------------\
| /
<<-------------------------------------------------------------------<<
This short section is basically a list of tips and tracks and what can
be unlocked.
Unlockables
Dry Bones Complete Nitro Cup 50cc
Daisy Complete Retro Cup 50cc
3rd Kart for each character Complete Nitro Cup 100cc
Waluigi Complete Retro Cup 100cc
7 Karts total for each character Complete Nitro Cup 150cc
150cc Mirror Mode Complete Retro Cup 150cc
R.O.B. Complete Nitro Cup Mirror Mode
36 Karts total for each character Complete Retro Cup Mirror Mode
Mission 7 Achieve Star rating on all previous missions
Star Cup Complete Mushroom and Flower Cup
Special Cup Complete Star Cup
Leaf Cup Complete Shell and Banana Cup
Lightning Cup Complete Leaf Cup
Star(s) next to your name Get at least star(s) on all Grand Prix cups
Alternate title screen Complete Retro Cup Mirror Mode
Staff Ghost Finish within 5 or 10 seconds of the Staff Ghost
Tips and Tricks
Boost start - During the countdown, before the 2 goes away, hit the
accelerator. If you've timed it correctly, you'll get a speed boost
when you start.
Speed boost upon recovery - After you fall off a track, hit the
accelerator before as you hit the ground for a boost.
SSMT a.k.a. snaking - Stands for Straight Stretch Mini-Turbo, these are
a bunch of Mini-Turbos on the straightaway. Although it looks like
you're losing speed from swerving side to side, it helps a lot. As a
tip, start the next MT as you exit the one before. You are moving back
and forth so once you do a left MT, you do a right MT.
Drafting - This is staying behind one kart. If you tailgate behind them
for a period of time, you will get a decent speed boost. Be careful not
to hit the kart in front of you though.
>>----------------------------<<
| 10 / Misc. \ [9tttu]
|-------------------------------/-------------------------------------\
| Copyright | Contact Information | Special Thanks | FAQ /
<<-------------------------------------------------------------------<<
The section here that doesn't really belong anywhere else. The things
below are just some extras to the guide.
>>------------------------------------------------------------------<<<
>/ a / Copyright <<<<
>----------------------------------------------------------(acpyr)----<
This whole walkthrough has been written by me, Eric Tam and is under
Copyright. Please do not copy and paste all or parts of this
walkthrough on your site or anywhere else. You may copy small sections
(like one mission in a level) but you must give credit back to me.
If you want to host this guide on your site, you must tell me first and
I'll decide whether or not it should be hosted. Don't just go adding it
to your site because you want to. The website(s) that may be allowed to
host my guide are:
GameFAQS.com
Cheatcc.com
Neoseeker.com
>>------------------------------------------------------------------<<<
>/ b / Contact Information <<<<
>----------------------------------------------------------(bctin)----<
If you wish to contact me with information or you need further help in
something in Mario Kart DS (and only Mario Kart DS), you may e-mail me
at: cnucksgx<at>gmail<dot>com
There are some things I'd like you to keep in mind before you write
your e-mail. Please do not go ranting about how bad this guide is. You
may send in tips or alternate strategies in completing a certain track
or a mission etc. I promise you that you will be given credit for the
information you send in that may be added to the guide. If you need
further help on a certain task, you may contact me with that as well.
If you are looking for information that's not currently in the guide
(look carefully through the whole guide though) you may contact me with
that info and I will do my best at adding the section. Please do not
write up a new section of your own though. Lastly, do not send
attachments to your e-mails.
One more thing, do not e-mail me for my friend code.
In any case, when you do write your e-mail, please make the topic easy
to identify. Something like (MKDS Guide: and your topic here) is
perfectly fine as long as the topic is clear. I won't be checking my e-
mail every day so you will need to wait patiently for a reply. I should
reply within a week - don't send another e-mail on the same topic or a,
"Why haven't you responded yet?" type.
Here is an example of a good title for an e-mail:
MKDS Guide: Mission Mode 7-1
Here are some examples of a bad title for an e-mail:
Help please!
MKDS Guide: A few questions
As you can see, these titles aren't very clear and I will most likely
ignore them and delete them.
I know this might be a lot but it will certainly make everything
easier.
>>------------------------------------------------------------------<<<
>/ c / Special Thanks <<<<
>----------------------------------------------------------(cspth)----<
Writing this guide (or most of it) would not be possible without some
things. The following are just some I'd like to thank.
Putfile.com for helping me upload my videos used for Time Trial
strategies.
My music for not getting me extremely bored while I was typing the
guide.
Holiday breaks - yes I know, a little odd to be thanking that but I
certainly got a lot of free time from it which let me write up my
guide.
Nintendo for making this wonderful game and the Mario Kart series.
And finally you, for reading this guide.
>>------------------------------------------------------------------<<<
>/ d / Frequently Asked Questions <<<<
>----------------------------------------------------------(dfaqs)----<
As of now, this section is really, really short but as a lot of the
same questions start pouring in, this is where all the questions and
answers will be given.
There are currently no questions.
\ /
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Well that's it! I've started other walkthroughs but this is the first
that I actually focused on and (almost) completed. Hopefully, it has
helped you with your game and got you better than before.
Have a nice day and maybe I just might race you online some time!
