Cool, Cool Mountain: Star 4: Frosty Slide for 8 Red Coins
This guide will walk you through collecting all eight Red Coins hidden throughout Cool, Cool Mountain to unlock the Power Star. This particular star requires you to explore both the treacherous icy slide within the cabin and the expansive, snow-covered outdoor areas of the mountain. Precision and careful movement are key to snagging all these elusive coins.
Preparation and Initial Approach
Before you begin, ensure you're comfortable with Mario's basic movement on ice. While not strictly necessary for every coin, a good grasp of the long jump and precise steering will make your life significantly easier. There are no specific power-ups required for this star, but remember that collecting 100 coins in the level will also grant you a Power Star, so keep an eye out for additional yellow coins as you go.
Red Coin Locations: Step-by-Step Guide
The eight Red Coins are scattered across two main sections of Cool, Cool Mountain: the Frosty Slide inside the cabin and the outdoor mountain area. We'll tackle them in a logical order to minimize backtracking.
Part 1: The Frosty Slide (Inside the Cabin)
Enter the cabin by jumping into the chimney at the very top of the mountain. This will transport you to the start of the Frosty Slide.
- Red Coin 1: Immediately after starting the slide, you'll encounter a series of small bumps. The first Red Coin is directly on your path, impossible to miss if you stay centered.
- Red Coin 2: Continue down the slide. After the first coin, you'll pass through a narrow section. The second Red Coin is prominently placed in the middle of the slide shortly after this.
- Red Coin 3: Further down the slide, you'll reach a wider section with a slight curve to the right. This Red Coin is located on the left side of this wider path. You may need to steer slightly to collect it.
- Red Coin 4: Nearing the end of the main slide, just before the final drop-off that leads outside, the fourth Red Coin is positioned in the center of the path.
Strategy Tip: While on the slide, try to maintain a controlled speed. Don't be afraid to slow down by pulling back on the control stick if you feel you're going too fast to collect a coin accurately. Missing a coin on the slide means you'll have to restart the slide section to get it, which can be time-consuming.
Part 2: The Outdoor Mountain Area
After exiting the slide, you'll land in the outdoor area near the bottom of the mountain. Now, let's find the remaining four Red Coins.
- Red Coin 5: Upon exiting the slide, you'll be near the bottom of the mountain. Look to your immediate left (if facing away from the slide exit). There's a small, elevated ledge or platform near the edge of the snowfield. The fifth Red Coin is resting on this ledge. You might need to perform a short jump to reach it.
- Red Coin 6: From the location of Red Coin 5, turn and look towards the starting area of the level (where the mother penguin usually is). You'll notice several snow-covered trees. One of these trees, specifically one of the taller ones closer to the starting area, has a branch extending outwards. The sixth Red Coin is perched on this tree branch. To reach it, you'll need to perform a precise triple jump or a well-timed wall kick off the tree trunk if you're feeling adventurous. The easiest method is often a well-judged long jump from a slightly elevated position nearby, or simply jumping repeatedly at the base of the tree until you grab the branch.
- Red Coin 7: Head towards the large wooden bridge that spans the chasm in the middle of the level. Before crossing the bridge, look for a small, isolated snow platform or outcrop near one of the bridge's supports. The seventh Red Coin is located on this platform. You may need to carefully walk along the edge or perform a precise jump to land on it. Be cautious not to fall into the abyss below!
- Red Coin 8: This is arguably the trickiest Red Coin to collect. It's located directly underneath the large wooden bridge. To get it, you'll need to carefully walk onto the bridge and then drop off the side, aiming to land on the narrow ledge that runs along the underside of the bridge. Alternatively, you can approach from the ground level and perform a precise wall jump or triple jump to reach the underside. Once on the ledge, carefully walk along it to collect the eighth and final Red Coin. Take your time here, as a misstep means a long fall.
Power Star Appearance
Once you have collected all eight Red Coins, a chime will sound, and the Power Star will materialize. It typically appears on the small, circular island in the middle of the frozen lake, near the level's starting point. Simply make your way back to this island and jump into the shimmering Power Star to claim your reward!
Common Pitfalls and Tips
- Slippery Slopes: The ice physics in Cool, Cool Mountain can be challenging. Practice your control on ice before attempting this star if you're struggling.
- Falling Off: Many coins are near ledges or chasms. Always prioritize safety over speed. A lost life means restarting your coin collection.
- Tree Branch Coin: The coin on the tree branch can be frustrating. Experiment with different jump types (triple jump, long jump) and approach angles. Sometimes, a simple jump from a slightly higher snowdrift can make it easier.
- Under the Bridge: This coin requires precision. If you fall, don't get discouraged. Re-approach carefully. Consider using the camera controls (C-buttons) to get a better view of the ledge underneath the bridge.
- 100 Coin Star: While collecting these 8 Red Coins, keep an eye out for yellow coins. If you manage to collect 100 coins in total during this attempt, you'll earn an additional Power Star, effectively getting two stars for one run!
