Thunder Cloud

The Thunder Cloud (originally Thundercloud), also known as the Lightning Cloud, is an item from the Mario Kart series, appearing in Mario Kart Arcade GP, Mario Kart Arcade GP 2, Mario Kart Wii, and Mario Kart Arcade GP DX. This item works similarly to the Time Bomb in Mario Kart Arcade GP and Mario Kart Arcade GP 2. However, it shrinks opponents rather than exploding. In Mario Kart Wii, its console Mario Kart debut, unlike the rest of the items that appear in said game, it activates itself automatically when obtained from an Item Box, and it cannot be thrown, unlike in the arcade games. This item makes a buzzer sound when received from an Item Box, a sound that is not heard from any other item in the game. It can be obtained if the player is anywhere from third to seventh place, and in VS races, they can also obtain it in eighth place. The best chances of getting this item are in fourth and fifth place, with a 7.5 percent (three out of 40) chance of getting it in said positions. It is one of six items wherein only one can be in play at a time (the other five being the Blooper, Spiny Shell, Bullet Bill, POW Block, and Lightning). Once a Thunder Cloud is obtained, another Thunder Cloud cannot be obtained until the current one disappears.

When a Thunder Cloud is obtained, the player automatically receives a constant boost of speed. Also, drivers with a Thunder Cloud do not slow down when they go off-road. However, the Thunder Cloud eventually strikes and shrinks the player after they have it for exactly ten seconds, having the same effects of the Lightning. The Thunder Cloud, however, can be passed on to another kart or bike by bumping into any other racer before the lightning strikes. To use the item efficiently, racers have to bump another player and let them be shrunk instead. It can be destroyed when the character holding it drives into a cannon, falls off the track, or uses a Star, a Mega Mushroom, or a Bullet Bill.

Mario Kart Wii trading card information
Description: "The Lightning Cloud can be thought of as an unwanted gift, if you will. Unlike other items, you may not necessarily want this item to show up in your Item Window. When you pick it up it activates immediately and there's nothing you can do about it. Granted, it increases your speed and stability, but when its effects runs out you'll shrink down as you would when hit with Lightning."

Game Tip!: "If the Lightning Cloud appears overhead, quickly bump into the nearest Kart or Bike and the Lightning Cloud will be transferred to that vehicle!"

Trivia

 * Thunder Clouds and Triple Bananas are the only items from the Mario Kart Arcade GP series that appear in the main Mario Kart series.