While most racers in Mario Kart World are just out there to have a good time, the ones who know how to use every tool available have a real shot at pulling ahead.Â
There are a couple of sneaky but super helpful mechanics that return in Mario Kart World—looking behind your kart and throwing items backward. These might not seem like a big deal at first, but mastering them can really change the game.
This guide breaks down how to look behind you, how to launch items backward (even the ones you’d normally throw forward), and why it’s worth learning these moves.
How to Look Behind You in Mario Kart World
Want to know who’s tailing you or if a Red Shell is about to ruin your day? Here’s how to check behind you:
Press X on the right Joy-Con. On the Switch 2 controller layout, that’s the top button on the right side.
The smoothest way to do this is to keep holding A (your drive button), and gently roll your thumb up to press X without letting go of the gas. That way, you keep your kart moving forward while taking a quick glance behind.
You’ll stay in that rear-view mode for as long as you hold down X. The moment you let go, the camera flips back to the default forward-facing view.
Why bother looking behind at all?
Because it can warn you if someone’s creeping up for a pass—or if a Blue Shell is inbound and you need to plan your next move (or prep a well-timed Charge Jump).
How to Send Items Backward in Mario Kart World
Now for the fun part—messing with your opponents. Just like in previous Mario Kart games, you’re not stuck using items only one way. With the right input, you can send items backward or forward depending on what you need in the moment.
Here’s how it works:
- To throw items backward (like a Shell or Fire Flower), tilt the left analog stick down while pressing L to use the item.
Your character will quickly toss it behind the kart instead of ahead—perfect for keeping tailgaters in check. - To throw items forward (like a Banana, which usually just drops behind you), tilt the stick up while pressing L.
Your racer will chuck it forward, letting you surprise someone just ahead of you with a perfectly placed peel.
This kind of control gives you way more flexibility with your items, and it adds a sneaky layer of strategy. Someone coming up behind you? Drop a Shell or Banana in their face. Someone just ahead? Fire that Banana like a missile and see what happens.
Learning to look back and use items more dynamically might seem small, but these tricks can absolutely give you the upper hand. Practice them a few times and they’ll become second nature—just another reason why you’re always crossing the finish line in first.
Related Articles:
How Tricks Work in Mario Kart World (And Why You Should Use Them)
Here’s How to Free Roam in Mario Kart World Without Getting Thrown into a Race
Mario Kart World Guide: Tracks, Characters, Game Modes & More on Nintendo Switch 2
