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If you’ve ever fancied yourself a mushroom-chomping, Koopa-stomping hero with a knack for rescuing princesses, then you might already be familiar with the 2019 port of New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe for the Nintendo Switch. Originally a Wii U title, this game has been polished up and ported to give Switch owners a chance to experience this charming, side-scrolling adventure. And what an adventure it is!
Gameplay and Mechanics
The core gameplay of New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe sticks closely to the traditional Mario formula. You’ll jump, run, and stomp your way through a variety of colorful worlds, each brimming with obstacles, power-ups, and classic enemies. The game’s mechanics are as tight and responsive as ever, ensuring that every jump and every coin-collecting spree feels just right.
The game features a classic 2D side-scrolling format, but it also introduces a few fresh elements to keep things interesting. The addition of new power-ups, like the Super Acorn, lets Mario and friends transform into flying squirrels, adding a new dimension to exploration and platforming.
Multiplayer Madness
One of the standout features of this game is its multiplayer mode. Up to four players can join in the fun, either locally or online. This cooperative play can be both a blessing and a curse—while it’s delightful to team up with friends and family, it can also lead to some chaotic, “whoops, sorry, I didn’t mean to throw you off the edge” moments. But that’s all part of the charm, right?
Graphics and Sound
Visually, New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe retains its charming, cartoonish art style, which looks great on the Switch’s screen. The vibrant colors and smooth animations make the game a joy to watch, even if you’ve seen the levels before. The soundtrack, featuring upbeat and memorable tunes, complements the visuals perfectly, adding to the overall appeal of the game.
Levels and Challenges
The game offers a hefty selection of levels, each with its unique theme and set of challenges. From the classic grassy plains to icy caverns and fiery fortresses, there’s no shortage of environments to explore. The level design is clever and often features multiple paths, which encourages replayability as you try to find all the hidden secrets and collectibles.
Power-ups and Items
The assortment of power-ups in this game is impressive. In addition to the familiar Super Mushroom and Fire Flower, players can utilize items like the aforementioned Super Acorn. These power-ups not only help Mario and his friends navigate tricky sections but also add variety to the gameplay. Collecting items and power-ups feels satisfying and is integral to overcoming some of the more challenging levels.
Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- Classic Mario gameplay with tight controls.
- Charming visuals and engaging soundtrack.
- Multiplayer mode adds fun and replayability.
- Numerous levels and hidden secrets to discover.
- Cons:
- Some levels may feel repetitive if you’ve played the original.
- Multiplayer chaos might not appeal to everyone.
- Limited innovation compared to other Mario titles.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is a delightful port that brings a beloved Wii U game to the Switch with a few improvements and enhancements. Whether you’re a seasoned Mario veteran or a newcomer to the series, this game offers a nostalgic, enjoyable experience. It’s perfect for solo play or for gathering friends and family for some cooperative platforming fun. If you’re looking for a game that’s easy to pick up but hard to put down, this one is certainly worth a look.
So, grab your Joy-Con, dust off your Super Mushroom, and get ready to embark on a colorful adventure that’s sure to bring a smile to your face!
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.