Having grown up on the NES and SNES, I was happy to see an entirely new 2D entry in the mainline mario series. After the phenomenal Super Mario Odyssey easily became my family's favorite video game during the pandemic, we were somewhat disappointed with the remakes that have been released since. It was an easy choice to pre-order Super Mario Wonder, but I was doubtful the experience could compare to Odyssey, despite more emphasis on co-op play.
Gameplay:
From the start screen, the essence of Mario games is captured perfectly in Super Mario Wonder. Levels oscillate between familiar terrains and novel landscapes. Most mario games offer something new that at first seems like it will disrupt the always-solid platforming experience and genius level design hallmark to 2D mario adventures. Wonder includes several new power-ups, an overwhelming number of one-at-a-time badges provide a small change in-stage, and the wonder flower induces brief level-warping or mario-warping mini-challenges. None of these are affect the game on the level of Oydssey's Cappy or Mario Sunshine's FLUDD. However, they are all interesting and worthy additions. They also allow for a solo base difficulty that is decidedly more challenging (as you get further into the game) than many other 2D Mario games. Yet, the game (as you would expect) is adaptive to a wide range of player skill because of the co-op, invincible characters (that don't need to be unlocked), new power-ups, and badges. Still, I do miss the simplicity of the platforming challenges hallmark to Mario games, which aren't quite as much on display here as compared to collecting star coins in New Super Mario Bros.
Graphics:
Graphically, the game delivers as much as the hardware allows. Detailed environments and distinct aesthetics for each world are evident. It can be a bit busy, but always fun. The level of polish is as good as any Mario game, which already sets the bar high. Character animations, character model design, enemy design, and effects, all add greatly to the experience.
Controls:
The controls, for the most part, are what you'd expect from a Mario title: reliable. Yet, during some platforming, my kids experienced issues they blamed on lagging response. It could have been that they were sitting too far from the Switch or that they are kids. I didn't notice any issues with input lag or imprecision. I also love that Nintendo just 2 core (run and jump) buttons are needed most of the time, supplementing with the top-right bumper button (or, alternatively, shaking the control) on occasion.
Co-op:
The co-op mode is where "Super Mario Wonder" truly attempts to bridge the generational gap. Collaborating with my children, combining our abilities to face challenges, is a great way to spend time together. The characters that don't receive damage from enemies make it easy for novices to contribute to the progress and keep up with more advanced players.
Overall Assessment:
Super Mario Wonder delivers on combining many of the most beloved and nostalgiac components of former 2D Mario adventures while avoiding the trap of feeling like an updated version of a previous game. My kids enjoyed the new features more than I did, with my 8-year old laughing hysterically every time I hop along as a crouched elephant Mario. I'll update as we continue our adventure...
Super Mario Bros.™ Wonder - Nintendo Switch (US Version)
4.8 | 8,982 ratings
Price: 49.99
Last update: 01-10-2025
About this item
Find wonder in the Flower Kingdom in the next side-scrolling Super Mario adventure
Collect Wonder Flowers for surprising, game-changing effects like pipes coming alive, an enemy stampede, and much, much more
Choose from the largest cast of characters in a side-scrolling Mario game, including Mario, Luigi, Peach, Daisy and other favorites
Ease into the action with four different-colored Yoshis and Nabbit who can’t take damage
Discover new power-ups like Elephant Fruit, which transforms Mario and friends into an elephant that can swing its trunk and spray water
Collect Wonder Flowers for surprising, game-changing effects like pipes coming alive, an enemy stampede, and much, much more
Choose from the largest cast of characters in a side-scrolling Mario game, including Mario, Luigi, Peach, Daisy and other favorites
Ease into the action with four different-colored Yoshis and Nabbit who can’t take damage
Discover new power-ups like Elephant Fruit, which transforms Mario and friends into an elephant that can swing its trunk and spray water
Product information
| Publication Date | October 20, 2023 |
|---|---|
| UPC | 045496599577 |
| Compatible Video Game Console Models | Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch - OLED Model HEG-001 |
| ASIN | B0C8VHZR14 |
| Release date | October 20, 2023 |
| Customer Reviews |
4.9 4.9 out of 5 stars
8,266 ratings
4.9 out of 5 stars |
| Best Sellers Rank | #40 in Video Games (See Top 100 in Video Games) #1 in Nintendo Switch Games |
| Product Dimensions | 0.79 x 3.94 x 3.94 inches; 1.6 ounces |
| Type of item | Video Game |
| Language | English |
| Rated | Everyone |
| Item model number | NINT118640SWI |
| Item Weight | 1.6 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Nintendo |
| Date First Available | June 20, 2023 |
Top reviews from the United States
J
Delivers on Every Expectation
Reviewed in the United States on October 21, 2023
Cali From New York
A must have for any Mario fan or fan of platformers!
Reviewed in the United States on November 7, 2023