Recent coaching sessions with players around diamond rank revealed several significant kickoff patterns. While playing, it became apparent that kickoffs among diamond players were often slow and inefficient. Saving and reviewing replays highlighted the differences in approach and execution that led to faster or slower kickoff outcomes.
| Kickoff Type | What Goes Wrong | How to Correct |
|---|---|---|
| Slight Diagonal | Turning towards the boost pad, then towards the ball, but not flipping at all. Wasting ground and speed. | Always flip when possible; flipping increases speed without using boost. |
| Front Flip Only | Front flipping towards the ball and sometimes boosting while flipping, occasionally boosting backwards. | Avoid boosting during the flip in a way that causes backward momentum; diagonal flip instead. |
| Delayed Flip | Flipping late after leaving the ground, resulting in unnecessary air time and reduced speed. | Corner flip instantly after jumping to maximize time on the ground and boost speed. |
A key takeaway from fast kickoffs is the diagonal flip (also called corner flip). After turning towards the middle boost pad, the flip is executed diagonally towards the ball without turning on the ground. This isn't a direct side flip, but a movement between front and side flip angles.
It is important to continue boosting during the diagonal flip. After the first flip, land with the nose pointed at the ball and immediately flip again directly into it. This technique ensures the ball is hit squarely and travels in a straight line toward the goal.
The same kickoff technique applies across all playlists, but in 1v1 matches, boost management becomes even more critical. It is recommended to stop boosting after the first flip in 1v1, conserving approximately 12 boost by the end of the kickoff, which can make a significant difference in recovery.
For straight center kickoffs, especially in 1v1, avoid simply driving and flipping at the end. Instead, start by driving straight but turn slightly to the side so that the diagonal (corner) flip and boost target the ball directly. After landing, straighten towards the ball and front flip into it again.
On diagonal kickoffs, several strategies are often attempted. Simply driving and flipping at the end is not optimal if there is room for an early flip. Wave dashing on this kickoff can get the car to max speed, but it happens too late to be effective.
Some players try unorthodox methods, but if the angle of impact is not goal side, opponents with better positioning will win every time.
There is a similar, less recommended strategy which involves turning the opposite direction before flipping, but this makes it harder to re-align the car for a direct hit.
Fast kickoff techniques can be applied throughout the game for rapid field traversal and recovery. By diagonal flipping instantly after jumping, players reach destinations faster and conserve boost.
| Example | Result |
|---|---|
| Perfect Kickoff | Hits the ball in the center, ball rolls straight toward the goal, and player retains momentum for recovery. |
| Bad Kickoff | Ball is hit off-center, loses speed, and opponent gains control due to better positioning or technique. |
Many players at lower ranks may not have strong kickoffs, but awareness and practice of these techniques can significantly improve performance. Sharing this information with friends or teammates can help elevate overall gameplay and result in more consistent and effective kickoffs.