Yoshi's New Island

 3DS
User Score
6.1

Mixed or average reviews- based on 203 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 81 out of 203
  2. Mixed: 61 out of 203
  3. Negative: 61 out of 203
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  1. Grady
    Mar 16, 2014
    8
    This game is what Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels was to the original Super Mario Bros. It sticks so closely to the template of its predecessor, that it ends up feeling more like an expansion pack than a brand new game.

    The whole experience will feel very familiar to Yoshi's Island fans, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. After all, the first game was a masterpiece. I don't    This game is what Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels was to the original Super Mario Bros. It sticks so closely to the template of its predecessor, that it ends up feeling more like an expansion pack than a brand new game.

    The whole experience will feel very familiar to Yoshi's Island fans, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. After all, the first game was a masterpiece.

    I don't see why the critics feel that the lack of innovation is a shot in the foot for Yoshi's New Island. Super Mario Galaxy 2 got fantastic reviews, and it barely differentiated itself from Super Mario Galaxy 1. So why does Yoshi's New Island get bashed for doing the same thing? It's like ordering a delicious, juicy steak at a restaurant, loving it, then coming back a week later to order the same steak, and this time, you hate it. It doesn't make sense at all.

    And as for the art style, it looks fine. Think of it as Yoshi's Island if it were translated into Playstation 1 pseudo-3D graphics. I can't really illustrate that to you, but take a look at some videos of the game in motion, and you'll see what I mean. It's not a bad visual-style, and to me, it's kind of reminiscient of Yoshi's Story on the N64.

    For those of you out there who are on the fence about buying this game after seeing such mixed reviews, I'd urge you to disregard them, and try the game out for yourself. Being a huge fan of the orginal Yoshi's Island, I was just as worried as everyone else was when this game was announced. I wasn't confident at all that it could compare to the original, and I'd already been burnt by Yoshi's Island DS, which was a major disappointment for me. Thankfully, I'm happy to say that Yoshi's New island comes very close to the greatness of the original. Closer than I ever imagined it would. So please do not hesitate to pick this up. Do yourself a favor, and ignore the critics who are lambasting the visual style, or complaining about the level design, because as far as I'm concerned, those complaints are completely un-founded. Yoshi's New Island is a blast to play, there's lots of content, lots of hidden secrets, and it comes remarkably close to the greatness of the original game. I couldn't ask for anything more.    … Expand
  2. SkwereBiz
    Jan 26, 2017
    10
    I don't know what all the fuss is about. I'll make it short and sweet for you. If you liked the DS version, chances are you're going to like the 3DS. The graphics, music and sound are all really good. You're missing out if you're not playing this game because of all the low scores here. This is one of my favorite 3DS games, and I think it'll be one of yours too.
  3. Bishasaurus
    Mar 14, 2014
    8
    Hmm, from what I have played the game so far (soon finished Wolrd 1 :P), I can say that in my opinion most of the review scores seems as far fetched as they go. The gameplay's stabile and the controls feels nice, very similar to the original in a good way. And the musics aren't that bad, expect for those random toy-like instruments including tracks. And the level design, I feel it isHmm, from what I have played the game so far (soon finished Wolrd 1 :P), I can say that in my opinion most of the review scores seems as far fetched as they go. The gameplay's stabile and the controls feels nice, very similar to the original in a good way. And the musics aren't that bad, expect for those random toy-like instruments including tracks. And the level design, I feel it is working nicely and there are new things in every new level as there should be. Even though there isn't that much of new gameplay elements, it is still good and could go for even the "classic Nintendo quality" as for ensured entertainment factor. I found IGN's review much closer to the truth of the quality of the game.

    And by the way, the graphics aren't even close as bad as they look in the trailers, in those Yoshi looked like some kind of vague polygon mess, but in the game he looks even cute. Overall I would give it a 7.5 from my current exprience of the game.    … Expand
  4. ChriiBr
    Mar 14, 2014
    8
    This game has its own flow and pace, when you set aside your expectations and delve into its wonderful world and mechanics, there is a lot to love about Yoshi's New Island.

    The lack of checkpoints, the sudden death traps and the difficulty of finding each collectible item lengthen the game unnecessarily. If you just want to walk through the game it's a relaxing, albeit short,    This game has its own flow and pace, when you set aside your expectations and delve into its wonderful world and mechanics, there is a lot to love about Yoshi's New Island.

    The lack of checkpoints, the sudden death traps and the difficulty of finding each collectible item lengthen the game unnecessarily. If you just want to walk through the game it's a relaxing, albeit short, experience. If you try to collect and explore everything it can get rather frustrating.

    Once you decided that this game can never live up to being a true sequel to the SNES Yoshi's Island, but rather a game being very akin to Yoshi's Story on N64, Yoshi's New Island is a very good way to spend your time and you'll find a lot to love about it.    … Expand
  5. TheYosh
    Mar 14, 2014
    9
    A wonderful game. I'll cut straight to the point and say the music isn't really that great. It sucks, even. But the graphics are colorful and fun, the gameplay is tight, and challenge is where it's due. Some other reviews are saying the game is a skip, but skipping this one might cause regret.
  6. Aussiephoenix83
    Mar 16, 2014
    8
    I was really excited for this game as I loved the SNES original but after reading the reviews I was really worried it was going to be terrible. To be honest after watching some of the videos the art style looked quite bad but I thought I'd give it a go (for Nostalgias sake). Boy am I glad I did because I disagree with most of what has been criticised about this game. The art style actuallyI was really excited for this game as I loved the SNES original but after reading the reviews I was really worried it was going to be terrible. To be honest after watching some of the videos the art style looked quite bad but I thought I'd give it a go (for Nostalgias sake). Boy am I glad I did because I disagree with most of what has been criticised about this game. The art style actually pretty neat and it doesn't look nearly as bad as the videos make it out to be. It is actually rather cute and looks like the whole game has been hand drawn. The game play is solid and sure there isn't too much "New" about it but it's classic Yoshi gameplay and that's why we all play Yoshi games right? Egg throwing, hidden secrets, flutter jumping etc. The music is the same tune repeated over again in different ways but it is very catchy. The game oozes Nintendo charm and that's what keeps Nintendo fans coming back for more. Definitely not an instant classic but a fun game none the less. If you enjoyed the original Yoshi's Island then you will enjoy this game!… Expand
  7. setz
    Mar 14, 2014
    9
    Great game with great nostalgia from the original. Games dont need to be punishingly difficult or 40+ hours long to be enjoyable. The platforming is great, the music is great and the visuals look much better than online screenshots. This is a great way to spend 10+ hours, especially if you want all the collectibles.
  8. thesuperioreddi
    Apr 24, 2014
    10
    Ok this game is definitely not as good as the original aesthetically, but the gameplay is pretty much the same. I don't understand how poeple could rate this game lower than Yoshis Island DS. If you don't mind the new style and visuals this game is pretty good!
  9. JustTheTrick
    Mar 16, 2014
    9
    A great successor to the original Yoshi's Island on the SNES. Whilst slow and simple to play with a fairly even difficulty throughout, the real joy comes from finding all the collectibles and unlocking the harder bonus levels. Not sure what people ask for when they call for "innovation", they probably don't know themselves... This is a solid addition to the franchise and sure to notA great successor to the original Yoshi's Island on the SNES. Whilst slow and simple to play with a fairly even difficulty throughout, the real joy comes from finding all the collectibles and unlocking the harder bonus levels. Not sure what people ask for when they call for "innovation", they probably don't know themselves... This is a solid addition to the franchise and sure to not disappoint veteran fans and newbies alike.… Expand
  10. DeuceGamer
    Jul 29, 2014
    9
    Another solid title for the 3DS. The game controls well and adds just enough new to keep it interesting. To pass each level doesn't require much effort but collecting all the items in each level brings the difficulty up. It makes for a good balance between challenging and accessible. Granted you will likely have triple digit lives through the majority of the game the challenge is moreAnother solid title for the 3DS. The game controls well and adds just enough new to keep it interesting. To pass each level doesn't require much effort but collecting all the items in each level brings the difficulty up. It makes for a good balance between challenging and accessible. Granted you will likely have triple digit lives through the majority of the game the challenge is more about exploring anf locating the hidden items.

    The music could be better, but it's not aa huge of an issue as some make is sound. Overall I would give this title a recommendation if you are looking for something new on the 3DS, enjoy Nintendo First Party titles, and have already played the heavy hitters in the 3DS library. It feels a step behind the efforts of Luigi's Mansion, Mario 3DLand, Etc....     … Expand
  11. BasilZero
    Oct 7, 2015
    9
    Game: Yoshi's New Island
    Genre: Platformer/Adventure
    Developer: Nintendo System: Nintendo 3DS (3DS) Total Score: 87/100 Value Score: 8.7/10 • Story: 9/10 • Characters: 10/10 • GamePlay: 10/10 • Graphics: 9/10 • Sound: 10/10 • Music: 7/10 • Length: 7/10 • Replay Value: 7/10 • Player Value: 8/10 Pros +Includes a 2 player mini game +2 additional secret levels are added    Game: Yoshi's New Island
    Genre: Platformer/Adventure
    Developer: Nintendo
    System: Nintendo 3DS (3DS)
    Total Score: 87/100
    Value Score: 8.7/10

    • Story: 9/10
    • Characters: 10/10
    • GamePlay: 10/10
    • Graphics: 9/10
    • Sound: 10/10
    • Music: 7/10
    • Length: 7/10
    • Replay Value: 7/10
    • Player Value: 8/10

    Pros
    +Includes a 2 player mini game
    +2 additional secret levels are added upon completing different requirements in each world
    +Unlike the NDS game, this game only uses the top screen which is a improvement gameplay wise to deter any confusion upon jumping from one screen to another which can be at odds sometimes
    +Includes the helping assistant similar to DKC Returns and NSMB series incase you get stuck or die a lot in a level.
    +Art style is visually appealing and is a mixture of Yoshi's Island and Yoshi's Story
    +New gameplay features include the giant egg, bulldozer and new transformations

    Cons
    -The game's music is a sad departure from the previous game's style OST.
    -The game is relatively easier than the previous games
    -Getting 1 ups is crazy easy
    -Gyro controls can be annoying at times    … Expand
  12. GamingCharged
    Apr 13, 2014
    8
    I have never played a Yoshi’s Island game in my life. I know, it sounds bad!!

    Before playing Yoshi’s New Island, I read up on some of the reviews already written up on the interweb, and was staggered to see so many low scores. After seeing these negative reviews, I decided that I needed to see for myself. Let’s just say I’m glad I took the risk. Yoshi and Baby Mario are back in an    I have never played a Yoshi’s Island game in my life. I know, it sounds bad!!

    Before playing Yoshi’s New Island, I read up on some of the reviews already written up on the interweb, and was staggered to see so many low scores. After seeing these negative reviews, I decided that I needed to see for myself. Let’s just say I’m glad I took the risk.

    Yoshi and Baby Mario are back in an adventure to bring peace back to Yoshi’s Island, and save Baby Luigi from Baby Bowser and his minions.

    After the events of the original Yoshi’s Island, the Stork finds out that he brought the two bros to the wrong parents! It’s up to the Yoshi’s to search for the rightful parents. Also, Kamek wants to steal the babies now that they are without a home once again, so you’ll have to worry about him and his gang.

    You assume control of the kindhearted Yoshi’s that inhabit the island, taking turns carrying Baby Mario through each level. If you take damage, Baby Mario will fall off your back and float in a bubble until you catch him. Be careful; upon losing Baby Mario, a counter will appear on the screen. If you can’t make it on time, Baby Bowser’s minions will capture the little guy, forcing you to start over from the beginning of the current level. At the end of each level, the Yoshi you played as will pass Baby Mario to the next Yoshi, who is ready to dive into the next level. Nice teamwork, guys! The only difference in the Yoshis is their color; they all control identically.

    New to this installment are the Yoshi transformations. When passing through a transformation gate, Yoshi changes form. Whether you are a drill, helicopter, or submarine, you control your movement with the system’s built in gyrosensor (motion controls). This is reminiscent of Yoshi’s Topsy Turvy, a GBA game.

    What’s a good game without an equally thrilling multiplayer mode? Yoshi’s New Island features a number of mini games to play with your friends over local wireless. Like any good Nintendo handheld game, you are able to play with your friends via Download Play even if they don’t have the game. This is always a welcome addition to a multiplayer, and it also helps owners of the game get their friends to buy it as well.

    This is the best-looking Yoshi’s Island game to date, hands down. The hand-drawn, storybook-esque visuals are a key ingredient in the game’s formula, and they are a perfect fit for the glasses-free visuals that the Nintendo 3DS provides. As is the case with most 3DS games, screenshots just don’t do this game justice; it looks at least 95% better in person.

    The music matches the game’s playful vibe, with what seems to be an orchestra of kazoos in the background. Remember the Van Gough inspired Starry Night level in New Super Mario Bros. U? Well, the same level of creativity was used in this game. That my friend, is a very good thing, trust me.

    Nintendo wants YOU to share your gameplay data with them

    Wait. Nintendo actually cares about what their fans think? That’s what the new SpotPass feature in the game would suggest. You are able to opt in or out to have your gameplay data automatically sent to the developers at Nintendo for research and ideas for future development.

    How many people played the game all the way to the end? How important were the Easter Eggs and secret passageways to the players? What was the most common strategy used to get to the end of each level?

    Thanks to the game’s SpotPass feature, you, the player, will answer these questions and more. This may not seem like all that big of a deal now, but if Nintendo continues to monitor gameplay (with the player’s consent of course) this could lead to more streamlined gameplay in the future, which means better games for us.

    As someone visiting the island of Yoshis for the first time, I thoroughly enjoyed the game, and feel that the developers at Arzest did a fantastic job at adding new features, while staying true to the Yoshi’s Island series. I can’t compare Yoshi’s New Island to the other two games on SNES and DS, but I can tell you that it won’t disappoint as a standalone title on 3DS.

    I look forward to finding all of the Easter eggs and other extras during my second playthrough.    … Expand
  13. DemonNerd
    May 3, 2014
    8
    Nothing is different is from this game and the previous ones. I like those game a lot and this game is no different. The art style is very cute and pop book like and yea some people might not like that style but to hell with them! The game is fun and you have no excuse for not buying this game and even the previous two. Game play is still the same and very easy to learn, tutorials are allNothing is different is from this game and the previous ones. I like those game a lot and this game is no different. The art style is very cute and pop book like and yea some people might not like that style but to hell with them! The game is fun and you have no excuse for not buying this game and even the previous two. Game play is still the same and very easy to learn, tutorials are all over the first seven levels and even the boss level. The one issue I have is the same as the other's which is baby mario is so damn annoying! Other than that its the best plat former on the 3DS, must have game without a doubt.… Expand
  14. ChoBroooo
    Oct 13, 2014
    10
    This is a great game for any age. Everybody said this is childish, but I found this fun. I don't think many other adults might find this fun, only because they aren't a kid anymore. If you loved the original Yoshi's island, Yoshi's story, or any other Yoshi games on the DS, this is a must have game!
  15. HyperheroCycle
    Dec 1, 2014
    10
    Yoshi's New Island is a fun game and people should stop hating on it. It is not as bad as you think. Plus there are new machines like the Big Egg and the Super Dragon which are both good things.
  16. Digibutter64
    May 11, 2018
    8
    An amazing platformer with a cute art style. It would be more of the same for some, and I'm not a fan of the title music, but I opine that Yoshi's New Island is underrated and worth picking up.
  17. Smashbro
    Dec 11, 2015
    10
    Too much unnecessary hate on an actually good game that still follows Yoshi's original roots and adds a few twists with Super Yoshi (essentially Yoshi moving at Dragon Ball speeds).
  18. GamecubeLover
    Jul 28, 2016
    9
    This is the new yoshi island and this game gets mixed reviews? Life is weird and some people shouldn't be critic or on this site cause this game is amazing!
  19. GlennGlenny
    Oct 22, 2017
    8
    Starting out I thought this was just a simple platformer with no difficulty at all and after the first couple of worlds was expecting to blast through and ignore the collectibles. However, about half way through I started taking little detours for flowers and red coins and I'm not sure if it's credit to the came for drawing me in or my own compulsions getting the better of me. After that IStarting out I thought this was just a simple platformer with no difficulty at all and after the first couple of worlds was expecting to blast through and ignore the collectibles. However, about half way through I started taking little detours for flowers and red coins and I'm not sure if it's credit to the came for drawing me in or my own compulsions getting the better of me. After that I also hit some genuinely tricky parts and levels in the last couple of worlds that took back a lot of the extra lives I'd breezed earlier on. With the credits rolling I can now say I'm seriously wishing up going for 100% against putting more time into the backlog I'm sat on.… Expand
  20. H-Bomb77
    Nov 3, 2020
    10
    Don't hate on my cause I'm not that old but this was like the 3rd or 4th game I ever owned I have 100 percent it many times, From what I see people think this game is unoriginal which ok it is kind of like Yoshi's Island DS but, that is like hating on a game like the Legend of Zelda Wind Waker HD because it is too much like the Legend of Zelda Wind Waker. In conclusion it is a new game andDon't hate on my cause I'm not that old but this was like the 3rd or 4th game I ever owned I have 100 percent it many times, From what I see people think this game is unoriginal which ok it is kind of like Yoshi's Island DS but, that is like hating on a game like the Legend of Zelda Wind Waker HD because it is too much like the Legend of Zelda Wind Waker. In conclusion it is a new game and just be happy we got a Yoshi game for 3DS… Expand

Awards & Rankings

39
#39 Best 3DS Game of 2014
10
#10 Most Discussed 3DS Game of 2014
10
#10 Most Shared 3DS Game of 2014

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
65

Mixed or average reviews - based on 71 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 16 out of 71
  2. Mixed: 51 out of 71
  3. Negative: 4 out of 71
  1. Pelit (Finland)
    May 11, 2014
    85
    Yoshi's New Island is a fun, cute and a lot easier platformer than other recent Nintendo games. It's a perfect match for a platformer novice, but gives thrills to a veteran too, especially when used as a sedative between much harder games. [Apr 2014]
  2. Official Nintendo Magazine UK
    Apr 13, 2014
    67
    Most will find something to like, but it's not even close to the classic it apes. [Apr 2014, p.84]
  3. D+PAD Magazine
    Apr 12, 2014
    50
    The more lacklustre Yoshi’s Island games there are, the more Nintendo continue to suggest that the original was a glorious one-off, released when the company was approaching the very peak of its creativity.
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