Mario Kart World is packed with exciting challenges that push players’ driving skills to the limit. Among these is the notoriously difficult «Overtake Shy Guys in an Upriver Race» challenge, which requires precision, smart boosting, and perfect timing to complete.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best strategies to conquer this tricky race, ensuring you cross the finish line before time runs out.
Understanding the Upriver Race Challenge
This challenge tasks players with racing against Shy Guys along a winding river course, all while battling a strict time limit. To help, you’re given six mushroom boosts, which must be used strategically to maintain speed and overtake opponents.
Key obstacles include:
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Sandbanks and rocks – Used for jump boosts.
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Tight turns – Require drifting for extra speed.
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Shy Guy racers – Act as pace markers; catching them means you’re on track.
Success depends on well-timed boosts, mid-air tricks, and efficient drifting.
Step-by-Step Guide to Beating the Upriver Race
1. Starting the Race
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Locate the challenge by finding the large blue button on the map (refer to in-game markers).
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Drive over it to begin, then head into the water.
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Immediately drift through the item boxes under the bridge to collect your six mushrooms.
2. First Island Boost (Critical Speed Gain)
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Approach the first small island with rocks.
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As soon as you hit the sand, use a mushroom boost and aim for the rocks.
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Tap R just before the rock’s peak to perform a jump.
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Execute mid-air flips for an extra speed boost upon landing.
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If done correctly, you should nearly catch the first Shy Guy as you pass under a bridge.
3. Maintaining Speed After the Bridge
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After the bridge, take the turn with a wide drift for a mini-turbo boost.
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Aim for the second island on the right and repeat the rock-jump trick.
4. Final Island (Double Boost Required)
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The last island has a longer sand stretch before the rock.
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Use two mushrooms back-to-back to maintain speed:
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Activate the first mushroom at the start of the sand.
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Trigger the second just as the first runs out.
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Launch off the final rock and aim straight for the goal ring.
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If you have any remaining boosts, use them to cross the finish line in time.
Pro Tips for Success
✅ Save mushrooms – Don’t waste them early; use them only when necessary for rock jumps.
✅ Master mid-air flips – Each successful trick grants a crucial speed boost.
✅ Watch the Shy Guys – If you’re not catching up, restart and refine your boosts.
✅ Practice drifting – Tight turns benefit from well-executed drifts for extra speed.
Final Thoughts
The «Overtake Shy Guys in an Upriver Race» challenge is one of Mario Kart World’s toughest tests, but with the right strategy, it’s beatable. Focus on efficient boosting, smart jumps, and maintaining momentum, and you’ll soon claim victory!
Have you completed this challenge? Share your tips in the comments below!
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch 2Genre(s): Kart racingDeveloper(s): NintendoPublisher(s):NintendoMode: Single-player, multiplayerage rating (PEGI): +3
