Super Mario 3D World Review
Super Mario 3D World is a near perfect 3D platformer. Originally released as a launch title for the Wii U in 2013, it is the sixth original 3D platform game in the Super Mario Series and the sequel to Super Mario 3D Land for the Nintendo 3DS. Nintendo has since ported the game to the Nintendo Switch in the form of Super Mario 3D World+ Bowser’s Fury which was released on February 12, 2021. This version of the game has additional multiplayer options, improved characters speeds, and much more. Also, this game includes Bowser’s Fury, which is a new 3D adventure where Mario must collect Cat Shines in order to defeat Giant Bowser.
In this Mario Adventure, the player can control Mario and his friends Luigi, Peach Toad, and Rosalina in their attempts to rescue the Sprixies from Bowser, who invaded their realm called the Sprixie Kingdom. This game has similar gameplay to Super Mario 3D Land, which combines the free-roaming gameplay with the mechanics of its 2D side-scrollers, such as the timer and the flagpole. The players must reach the end goal before the time expires in order to beat the level and proceed through the game. Each of the characters has different abilities, Mario is balanced, Luigi jumps higher and has lower traction Peach can float briefly but runs slower, and Toad runs faster. Up to Four players can play in local cooperative mode for the ultimate 3D Mario experience.
Similar to other Mario installments this game is divided into eight different worlds that include around 8 levels per world. The player must make their way through the levels to reach the boss stage. After defeating the boss one of the Sprixies will be freed unlocking a new world in the process. Each world has their own theme for example World 2 is desert themed, while World 3 is Water themed. There are many interesting, themed worlds, like Bowser’s World, which is inspired by an amusement park. Within each of these levels has three stars that the players must collect in order to unlock additional levels and for 100% completion. Some of these coins are much easier to find than others, but all of them are manageable to obtain. There were not any stars that I came across that were impossible or difficult to get.
Super Mario 3D world would not be complete without power-up abilities and this game is packed with power ups. Returning to the Super Mario franchise is the is the Super Mushroom, Fire Flower, Boomerang Flower, Super Leaf, Invincible Leaf, Mega Mushroom, and Super Star. Super Mario 3d World introduces three new powerups, the Super Bell, Double Cherry, and the Lucky Bell. The Super Bell is a golden bell that transforms Mario into Cat Mario. This allows him to climb walls and the goal pole as well as pounce on enemies. He can also swipe enemies near him. The Double cherry is a set of cherries that transform Mario into Double Mario. An identical clone of Mario appears. This allows the player to activate certain switches or defeat more enemies. Finally, the Lucky Bell is a bronze bell that transforms Mario into Cat Mario also giving him invincibility as well.
Overall Super Mario 3D World is a great experience for all ages. The local multiplayer can bring friends together for a fun competitive but cooperative experience. The levels are wonderfully designed with great themes, music, and imagery. The story may be simple, but the gameplay and level designs will make you want to progress through. This game offers many replay ability in the form of collecting stars and stamps as well as unlockable levels too. This game masterfully combines 2D and 3D mechanics for the ultimate Mario experience.
