MK8 Frantic
Image: Nintendo

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the most popular game on Nintendo Switch, no doubt partly due to the fact that it caters to players of all levels. Pro players with Jedi reflexes can compete in 200cc, while there are various speed classes and assists to help all racers have fun.

You can also setup various local and online sessions where you set the rules, choosing speed class, tracks and more. One choice is on which items will be available, and in this guide we'll explain the 'Frantic' option.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Frantic Items

Where Can I Select 'Frantic' Items?

There are multiple modes in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe where you have substantial customisation options. When you play in Multiplayer or Wireless Play with others locally you have many Item choices.

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  • Normal Items
  • Shells Only
  • Bananas Only
  • Mushrooms Only
  • Bob-ombs Only
  • No Items
  • No Items or Coins
  • Frantic Items

You also have the same customisation options in two Online Play modes - when you create a room in Friends and Rivals, or alternatively if you create a Tournament.

Frantic Items
Image: Nintendo Life / Nintendo

Ok, So What Does It Mean By Frantic Items?

In normal settings items are distributed in a particular way, to try and help those lower down the field catch up, while those leading the race typically get weaker / less useful items. The balancing is to ensure that all players feel 'in the race' until the end.

Frantic Items strips away some of that balance and focuses on the most offensive and destructive items. With this enabled you'll see more Shells, Lightning and so on, with the idea being that races will be action packed and full of explosions, banana skins and mayhem.

Is Frantic Items A Good Option?

Absolutely! Well, if everyone playing is up for the craziness. Played with friends and fellow enthusiasts it can add extra spice to your races.

That's it, pretty simple! Keep an eye out for our other Mario Kart 8 Deluxe guides, and be sure to share your own pearls of wisdom in the comments.

This article is part of our Mario Kart 8 Deluxe guide series, featuring tips, hints, tricks and unlocks for the best kart racing game on Switch. You can find the Full Character Roster, every course in the game, including the DLC tracks, and How To Download And Access the DLC itself.

We also explain How To Build The Best Kart, How To Unlock All Gold Mario And All Gold Kart Parts, How To Avoid Blue Shells, How To Farm Infinite Coins, How To Drift, Slipstream, And Boost, and How To Get A Rocket Start, as well as Explain And Rank Every Item, list every every compatible amiibo and unlockable Mii Costumes, explore The Difference Between 'All Items' And 'Frantic Items', plus give an in-depth explanation of All Control Options And Assists and How To Turn Automatic Steering On And Off.