Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Blue Shell Foils Speedrunner’s World Record Attempt

The infamous Blue Shell, a mainstay of Mario Kart's unpredictable gameplay, has once again proved its power to shape outcomes — this time in a competitive setting.

On February 12, 2019, speedrunner Skilloz_ took to Twitch to attempt a world record in the 200cc Star Cup of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe for the Nintendo Switch.

Broadcasting live to his followers, Skilloz_ raced through the game's challenging courses, showing impressive skill and determination, especially on the icy tracks of Mount Wario. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, developed and published by Nintendo, stands as one of the most popular entries in the long-running kart racing franchise.

Since its release on April 28, 2017, the game has become a bestseller on the Nintendo Switch, boasting over 61 million units sold worldwide as of 2024 and continuously ranking at the top of the eShop charts. During his record attempt, Skilloz_ found himself in a strong position.

However, as he neared the finish line on Mount Wario, a CPU-controlled opponent unleashed a Blue Shell—a notorious item famous for targeting the leading racer.

Noticing its approach on the minimap, Skilloz_ confidently remarked that evasion might be possible.

Moments later, the Blue Shell struck just before the race concluded, thwarting his world record hopes at the last possible instant. Skilloz_ later clarified during the stream commentary that, with a well-timed late boost, he potentially could have dodged the Blue Shell attack.

In the absence of a Super Horn, an item specifically designed to counter the Blue Shell, the run was at the mercy of Mario Kart’s iconic element of chance. Despite the disruption, the run was not in vain.

Skilloz_ achieved a new personal best, finishing just one second shy of the existing world record for the 200cc Star Cup category.

The attempt underscores the delicate balance between skill and luck in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe speedruns—a dynamic that continues to both frustrate and energize the community. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe’s enduring popularity, combined with high-profile moments like this, keep the game at the forefront of both casual and competitive Nintendo Switch gaming.

For fans and competitors alike, stories like Skilloz_'s reinforce the unpredictable charm and enduring challenge that the Mario Kart franchise is known for.

Mario Kart Mario Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Blue Shell Mario Kart 8 Twitch Blue Kart Nintendo Skilloz_ Star Cup Mount Wario