Super Mario 3D World Review

3D Super Mario platformers are among the best video games of all time. With superb titles like Super Mario 64, Super Mario Sunshine and Super Mario Galaxy 2, each entry in the series becomes a staple of its generation – and rightfully so. Forget about a groundbreaking story and top-notch graphics; 3D Super Mario games are all about fun, and Super Mario 3D World is no different.

While strolling along in the Mushroom Kingdom, Mario, Luigi, Toad and Princess Peach come across a never-before-seen transparent Warp Pipe. The four stop to admire the unusual object until a green bug-like creature springs out of it. The creature, known as a Sprixie, is frantically panicking and tries to figure out where the Warp Pipe had taken it. Suddenly, with no explanation and zero dialogue, the big bad Bowser pops out of the same tube, glances at Mario and the gang, traps the Sprixie in a bottle, and takes it back with him into the Warp Pipe.

Without giving it much thought, the brave Peach leaps into the Warp Pipe, followed by Mario, Toad and then Luigi. The heroes end up in a brand-new realm called the Sprixie Kingdom, which consists of multiple worlds that are connected – akin to how courses are placed in most Super Mario games; if you weren’t told it’s a new territory, you’d think it’s another version of the Mushroom Kingdom.

In practically every Mario game to date, Peach is the damsel in distress, offering a legitimate motive for Mario’s epic adventures. Because of this, it was initially alarming to see her role being replaced by a meager bug. You eventually overcome the concern, however, after realizing the game plays like previous great Mario titles.

From the start of the game, you get to select which character you want to play with. Each character is unique and has its ups and downs. Toad, for example, is the fastest runner with the weakest jumping abilities. Although Luigi leaps the highest, his jumps are sort of uncoordinated. Peach can briefly float but can barely run in her pink gown. And Mario is the most balanced character, with his solid jumping and running skills. Players can complete the game with a character of their choice, and they can experiment with the others whenever they like, giving significant reasons to replay levels.

In each course, you are tasked with reaching the Flag Pole. In the first set of courses, the goal is a cinch to reach; however, a greater challenge is offered in later courses as well as to those seeking hidden Green Power Stars and collectible stamps. The game boasts a variety of colorful courses, each with its own theme, puzzles and unique setting. It is easily the best-looking Mario game to date, with a charming soundtrack to boot.

The game supports all Wii U’s control schemes, including the Wii U GamePad and Wii Remote. I preferred playing with the GamePad for its full-fledged analog sticks, attributing to precise movement and fluid controls. The GamePad also gives players special abilities. Through its 6.2-inch touch screen, you can freeze enemies, open doors and reveal invisible objects. All GamePad-specific features are welcome additions, albeit a bit underwhelming when trying to showcase what’s so special about the giant controller.

The game introduces a couple new power-ups – most notably the Super Bell, which transforms your character into a cat. As a cat, players can pounce on objects, scratch enemies and scamper up walls. While wearing a cat suit, you feel more secure, as it allows you to climb back up if you slip off a platform. It feels right and its functions totally make sense, because… after all, cats have nine lives.

You can play the entire game alone or with up to three other locals simultaneously. If you choose the multiplayer route, try finding people who are familiar with Mario games. Inexperienced players tend to frustrate the game and run around without knowing what to do, giving the prominent player extra responsibility to constantly explain the game’s seemingly straightforward controls and mechanics. This issue could have been alleviated if the game contained online multiplayer. Not once did I play without wishing my Wii U friend who lives 563 miles away could join me.

Despite excluding online multiplayer and assigning Peach’s iconic role to a bug, Super Mario 3D World is an amazing game. Its addictive gameplay, alluring visuals, catchy music and high replay value all add up to form a compelling package. It’s one of the greatest games of the year and among the best Wii U has to offer. It’s another reason to prove why Mario is the king of platformers.

9/10