Nintendo just launched the all-new Super Mario Bros. Wonder on Switch – the first new 2D Mario game in a decade

The new game is already one of the highest-rated Mario Platformers of all time...

The wait is finally over for gaming enthusiasts and fans of the iconic Super Mario series. Nintendo has released the all-new “Super Mario Bros. Wonder” on Nintendo Switch.

This long-anticipated release marks the return of Mario and his beloved pals to the world of 2D side-scrolling gameplay, bringing with it a wave of nostalgia for long-time fans and a fresh adventure for newcomers.

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The Super Mario series first burst onto the scene in 1985, and it quickly became one of the highest-selling video game franchises in history, with over 40 million copies sold. “Super Mario Bros. Wonder” takes a nostalgic step back in time by embracing classic game features, including 2D side-scrolling gameplay, new power-ups, and a dash of wonder. Players can choose from 12 different characters and enjoy a multiplayer mode for up to three players, allowing friends and family to join in the quest for a thrilling escapade.

In this enchanting tale, Prince Florian extends an invitation to Mario and his companions to the Flower Kingdom. However, their celebration is rudely interrupted by none other than Bowser, who crashes the party and makes off with a Wonder Flower. This mischievous act merges Bowser with Prince Florian’s castle, transforming it into a floating fortress. As the power of the Wonder Flower spreads, the kingdom is infused with weird and wonderful occurrences.

With Castle Bowser running amok, players are called upon to join Mario and friends on a captivating 2D side-scrolling adventure brimming with wonder, all in a bid to save the Flower Kingdom.

 

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Here are some key features players can look forward to in this wonder-ful journey:

• A Kingdom Teeming with Variety: The Flower Kingdom comprises six distinct worlds encircling the Petal Isles, offering players a total of seven unique areas to explore, including open areas where players can freely roam.
• A World of Wonder: Each main course boasts its very own Wonder Flower, often cleverly hidden. Collecting a Wonder Flower triggers a Wonder effect, resulting in complete course and gameplay transformations. Expect moving pipes, shifting terrain, altered perspectives, and even the ability to float through space. Some Wonders can even transform your character.
• The Gang’s All Here: With a diverse cast of 12 characters, players can choose from Mario, Luigi, Peach, Daisy, Blue or Yellow Toad, and even Toadette. Each character shares identical gameplay features. Additionally, players can select differently coloured Yoshis and Nabbit, who won’t sustain damage, providing a more relaxed gaming experience.
• Plenty of Power-Ups: “Super Mario Bros. Wonder” introduces three new power-ups alongside familiar abilities. The Elephant form empowers players to smash through blocks, dispatch enemies with a flick, and even spray water with their trunk. The Bubble form lets players blow bubbles that can capture enemies from a distance, and the Drill form simplifies encounters with spiky or tough-headed foes, allowing players to burrow through the ground or ceiling.
• A Bounty of Badges: As the adventure progresses, players can earn various in-game badges, each equipped with unique abilities. These badges grant aerial gliding, aquatic speed boosts, super-high jumps, and more. Some badges provide useful bonuses, such as an extra Super Mushroom, additional coins for vanquishing foes, or the ability to spot hidden items in courses.
• Share the Fun: Local multiplayer allows up to three friends to join in the excitement. Revive each other’s ghosts or even have Yoshi players ferry others. For those playing online, they can see which courses their friends are in and join the same ones. Play courses normally or turn them into a race. Even when playing solo online, players may encounter live player shadows and special standees placed by others. These standees can be touched to revive or create your own to assist fellow players.

Not to be missed is the Mario-themed Nintendo Switch – OLED Model Mario Red Edition, already available at the My Nintendo Store and in retail outlets (game not included). The system, along with its two Joy-Con controllers and Nintendo Switch dock, is adorned in the iconic Mario Red colour. On the dock’s back, a silhouette of Mario in action can be spotted, and for eagle-eyed fans, hidden coin icons adorn the dock. Enquire with local retailers for availability.

“Super Mario Bros. Wonder,” the latest evolution in 2D side-scrolling Mario adventures, offering fresh gameplay, new power-ups, and delightful Wonder effects, is now ready for your gaming pleasure on Nintendo Switch. Delve into the whimsical world of Mario and his pals, and brace yourself for a journey filled with wonder and surprise.

Find out more here. 

Words by Staff Writer