Chaining

Learn the risky but rewarding technique of chaining power items in Mario Kart 7. Discover which items work best, the dangers involved, and optimal situations for chaining.

Chaining is a widely known and used technique in Mario Kart 7. It involves saving a power item obtained from a previous item block until you reach the next set of item blocks. By using the power item right before the next set, you can acquire two power items in succession. The primary items suitable for chaining are the Star, Lucky 7, Shock, Blue Shell, and Triple Red Shells.

Chaining Items:

• Star: The best item for chaining due to its ease of activation and inconspicuous nature. It grants invincibility, making it easier to 'shockdodge' (avoiding Lightning attacks).
• Lucky 7: A good chaining item, but its activation time can be cumbersome, especially when needing immediate invincibility or in crowded situations.
• Shock: Can be chained for a better power item, but holding it for a more strategic moment might be more beneficial. Chaining shocks can also make you predictable to opponents attempting to shockdodge.
• Blue Shell: Can be held for the next item block set, primarily to instill fear in front-runners rather than for chaining.
• Triple Reds: While not ideal for chaining, some players prefer it. Be aware that carrying Triple Reds makes you a large target for players with Stars.

The Risks of Chaining:

• Chaining is inherently risky. While holding a Star between item blocks, you are vulnerable to being hit by a Shock, losing your item. Reacting to an instant Shock is nearly impossible due to lag and other factors.
• Moving up in placement while attempting to chain might mean missing opportunities for shortcuts or other advantages.
• Carrying a power item makes you a target. Opponents may try to hit you, and you might need to use your item early if the situation becomes dangerous, like being pushed off the course.

When to Chain:

• Avoid chaining on the last set of item blocks on the final lap or when too far behind to catch up.
• Do not chain on courses with few item blocks, such as Wuhu Loop, where item blocks are not close together.
• Do not attempt to chain if your situation is perilous, especially if opponents have Triple Shells or Stars; it may be better to use your item defensively.
• Optimal chaining times include areas where item blocks are close, before large upcoming shortcuts, or during the first or second lap. For example, chaining a Star or Mushrooms in N64 Kalimari Desert can allow for multiple shortcuts and a significant lead. Avoid chaining a Star from the first item block of Maka Wuhu if you intend to 'glitch' (exploit a game mechanic), as it would be a waste.