Super Mario 3D World
2013
- platform
- action
- single player
- multiplayer
- co-operative
The story
Super Mario 3D World is a 3D platformer action game for the Wii U, and a follow-up of the Nintendo 3DS installment Super Mario 3D Land. The game builds upon the previous installment, following a similar 3D level-design convention inspired from the 2D platformer titles where players must navigate through a linear-designed level within a time limit to reach a level's Goal Pole. One key aspect introduced in this title is the simultaneous multiplayer: while not the first game in the series to do so, it is the first 3D title in the Mario series to incorporate up to four players cooperating with each other to reach the goal. Players can select their character from a pool of playable characters prior to starting the game, and each of these characters have their own unique playstyle that gives them advantages and disadvantages over other characters. The game makes use of several Wii U exclusive features, such as tapping blocks with the touch screen on the GamePad and blowing into the mic to reveal hidden items and blow away enemies. Various new power-ups are introduced in this title, with the trademark suit being the Cat power-up, which enables characters to perform a melee attack, climb up walls, and leap while midair, as well as the game generally having a cat-based theme.
What it’s like
Bright, saturated toybox worlds with glossy, hand-polished surfaces: sunlit meadows, candy-coloured sea cliffs, lava and ice stages that stay crisp and clean, all rendered at a smooth 60 frames a second so every jump lands with a satisfying bounce. The camera stays close and friendly, and the soundtrack is a cheerful mix of brass, bouncy chiptune and gentle orchestral swells that ebbs and flows with the stage. Vibe: playful, sunny, relentlessly upbeat, with a fun chaos when friends join in. It suits a lazy weekend afternoon, a couch co-op session with family, or a quick level or two before bed. Pacing is brisk, with each short stage built around a time limit and a flagpole-style goal, so there's always a clear next thing to do. Emotionally it stays light: a cast of plucky heroes working together and a cat suit that makes everything feel silly and freeing. Violence is cartoonish and minimal, with enemies bopped or blown away and no gore, fear or cruelty. It's made for families, co-op fans, and anyone who wants a gentle, joyful platformer with a bit of friendly competition.
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