The way to make MK more skill based was to balance item distribution, which they started doing decently after MKDS.
It’s not like drifting is automatic in modern MK (well, it is in auto mode, but it’s meant for complete beginners and it sucks for anyone who knows how to play). You’re still calling all the shots regarding when to drift and for how long. It’s just less annoying to do.
The way to make MK more skill based was to balance item distribution, which they started doing decently after MKDS.
It’s not like drifting is automatic in modern MK (well, it is in auto mode, but it’s meant for complete beginners and it sucks for anyone who knows how to play). You’re still calling all the shots regarding when to drift and for how long. It’s just less annoying to do.