New Super Mario Bros. U

 Wii U
User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 961 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 715 out of 961
  2. Mixed: 176 out of 961
  3. Negative: 70 out of 961
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  1. spongeswift
    Mar 24, 2017
    7
    You can't deny that you didn't have fun playing but with pretty much the same old same old items and enemies it's undeniable that 2D Mario games are getting old. Some of the new world design is cool and the new level design is amazing but they still really need to part with 2D Mario for the next few years. The boss battle was good and the gameplay was easy but still challenging enough forYou can't deny that you didn't have fun playing but with pretty much the same old same old items and enemies it's undeniable that 2D Mario games are getting old. Some of the new world design is cool and the new level design is amazing but they still really need to part with 2D Mario for the next few years. The boss battle was good and the gameplay was easy but still challenging enough for it to be fun. Overall this a solid Mario game that is a hit or miss for a lot of people.… Expand
  2. Carp64
    Jun 20, 2019
    7
    New Super Mario Bros. U is a good game that has a good story mode and plenty has side modes to play when you finish the story mode and has a decent sound track the main problem is that it feels to similar to the first New Super Mario Bros. game on the DS.
  3. Derpcat
    Oct 10, 2022
    7
    New Super Mario Bros U came out in the same year as New Super Mario Bros. 2. As a Wii U launch game, it got more copies bought that it would have if it was not a launch game. Right now, you’re probably saying,”Say that again?” It sold better then it should’ve. Does it hold up today?

    The story is a little bit different. Instead, PEACH’s castle was taken over. Well, story never defines a    New Super Mario Bros U came out in the same year as New Super Mario Bros. 2. As a Wii U launch game, it got more copies bought that it would have if it was not a launch game. Right now, you’re probably saying,”Say that again?” It sold better then it should’ve. Does it hold up today?

    The story is a little bit different. Instead, PEACH’s castle was taken over. Well, story never defines a platforming game (Much less a Mario game). The gameplay is the same as it always was, and they added a minimal amount of new gimmicks, which really brought the game down. I’m starting to feel like this is just New Super Mario Bros. Wii. There is one new power up and an “infinite” version of that same power up. The Nabbit chases were probably the only original part.

    The overall presentation is good, just not memorable. The locations are the same as in Wii and 2. There’s nothing that really stood out to me. The soundtrack is bah-bah-boring, and most of the songs are old, and the new ones are bah remixes of the original Super Mario Bros. soundtrack.

    There is quite a bit of content. 3 stars in every level, and if you get a world, you get an extra level. There are some other challenge modes which are a lot of fun, but they are limited and they’re nothing you can’t make in Mario Maker. There are also battle modes against your friends, which I never played because I will never play a 2d platformer with friends.

    This game is so similar to Wii, it should be called New Super Mario Bros: Wiihash. If you don’t own any other 2d Mario game or Mario Maker, then maybe you should get this. Not on the Switch though…    … Expand
  4. timbers_WSU
    Nov 18, 2012
    7
    There is really nothing to say here. If you like 2-D Mario you are gonna like this. It looks great in HD even though some of the backgrounds are a tad boring, the control is fine but it in a 2-D Mario game. The multiplyer which I have only played with one other person is decent but not a big game changer. Actually it feels like a cheat when someone puts up a pad for you. I like the modeThere is really nothing to say here. If you like 2-D Mario you are gonna like this. It looks great in HD even though some of the backgrounds are a tad boring, the control is fine but it in a 2-D Mario game. The multiplyer which I have only played with one other person is decent but not a big game changer. Actually it feels like a cheat when someone puts up a pad for you. I like the mode where the screen goes faster to make the game harder although it picks up the pace after a few hours of play. The story sucks. The music is lame. It is just normal Mario. It feels like I have played this before and I have. On the DS and the Wii. It is a good game but I could live without it and since it is the only exclusive for the system I currently own that is a disappointment. It is a solid Mario game but it isn't as good as Donkey Kong Country Returns and is not even close to the brilliant and more beautiful Rayman Origins. But it is a 2-D Mario game and for most fans it will be enough. Good game. But nothing special or new. I really like the new blue cases. But I was told the Wii U would have a trophy system. Where is it?… Expand
  5. dannesolna
    Mar 1, 2013
    6
    Not at all a bad game, but the compared with the Wii version I dont see much new. Not very much more detail in the graphics, just looks upscaled. Not many new elements or characters/enemies. Not much harder (easier Id say). I like the new nostalgic elements from Yoshis island, but I just dont think they had enough content to make a new game. This feels like new super mario bros wii HD. INot at all a bad game, but the compared with the Wii version I dont see much new. Not very much more detail in the graphics, just looks upscaled. Not many new elements or characters/enemies. Not much harder (easier Id say). I like the new nostalgic elements from Yoshis island, but I just dont think they had enough content to make a new game. This feels like new super mario bros wii HD. I the genre of 2d sidescrollers will be hard to push forward. I think an updated version in five years will suffice. Maybe some DLC during those years for the hardcore fans, like the Luigi-version that is coming now. The 2d content is simple and genius, but its too simple to pump out new releases as often as the 3d platformers. See this video. If some minor graphic tweaks are made in dolphin (like anti aliasing), I doubt anyone would see a difference. To me, New super mario bros U is the same game as this, which was released in 2009.
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhSVfbtmKvE

    To summarise great game in the genre, but I think the demand for 2d platformers for me and the most others is satisfied for a couple of years forward.    … Expand
  6. mbele
    Mar 3, 2013
    6
    Nothing new here. The game just as good on dolphin emulator with some minor anti aliasing and 720p upscaling. I really dont see a need for this game. Seems like they just wanted something to release the console with a game of their own. The whole 2d sidescroller is becoming a bit tiering to be honest. There is no chance Id buy another for a few years. The Luigi DLC just feels like theirNothing new here. The game just as good on dolphin emulator with some minor anti aliasing and 720p upscaling. I really dont see a need for this game. Seems like they just wanted something to release the console with a game of their own. The whole 2d sidescroller is becoming a bit tiering to be honest. There is no chance Id buy another for a few years. The Luigi DLC just feels like their milking it. The only reason Id buy it is the lack of game coming up. If they release the DLC at 5dollars I might do it.… Expand
  7. J-ivanF
    Nov 20, 2012
    7
    There are not problems in the New formula, but New Super Mario Bros. U it's too short, really simple and there is not much to do. It's a good game to begin to understand the Wii U. Clearly, this was the Wii U game that I spent more time to reviewing, yeah, and I finished fastly and bored. It's a good challenge, a great 2D game. It looks awesome in HD, showing us a new future in the series.There are not problems in the New formula, but New Super Mario Bros. U it's too short, really simple and there is not much to do. It's a good game to begin to understand the Wii U. Clearly, this was the Wii U game that I spent more time to reviewing, yeah, and I finished fastly and bored. It's a good challenge, a great 2D game. It looks awesome in HD, showing us a new future in the series. Using the Gamepad to place blocks anywhere was a bit confusing and sometimes I noted that this use is forced. A solid game in conclusion. But Nintendo could do a challenger game and longer, maybe a new Super Mario game in 3D. Although the level design is impressive and has greats co-op and multiplayer modes, just skipping the blocks, please.… Expand
  8. Hoopie
    Mar 5, 2013
    6
    This is a good, fun and addicting game, the first time through. Now that I've finished every level, I can't go back. I've tried, but in the end i play for 5 minutes then quit.
  9. CH513
    Jun 12, 2017
    7
    After Super Mario Galaxy 2, the Mario franchise has suffered a huge downfall, and New Super Mario Bros. U is a clear example of that. First, the story remains the same, EXCEPT for having Peach trapped in her own castle instead of Bowser's. The levels feel repetitive and tedious most of the time. The music is mostly reused music from the Wii installment, with only ONE new song. Having theAfter Super Mario Galaxy 2, the Mario franchise has suffered a huge downfall, and New Super Mario Bros. U is a clear example of that. First, the story remains the same, EXCEPT for having Peach trapped in her own castle instead of Bowser's. The levels feel repetitive and tedious most of the time. The music is mostly reused music from the Wii installment, with only ONE new song. Having the koopalings as bosses for the 3rd time has become annoying. But the reason this game gets a 7/10 is because it has a few strong points. Firstly, the game is hard. Even in world 1 I died quite a few times, and the difficulty increases constantly. The acorn suit is a really cool thing to add to Mario's huge power-up collection. Playing in singleplayer feels very rewarding. Catching Nabbit here and there is a fun twist, and the final boss fight is awesome. Overall, this game is lacking in variety, but the difficulty and fun levels will keep you interested in it for a while.… Expand
  10. Greyking
    Nov 27, 2012
    5
    In my opinion this game is a throwback from a bygone era. I will never understand the heaps of love bestowed upon the Mario Franchise. Each game, is a rehash of the game before. In addition the game does nothing to showcase the graphical power of the Wii-U. It's time to do something different with Mario, I would have preferred to see something creative like the Super Mario RPG with anIn my opinion this game is a throwback from a bygone era. I will never understand the heaps of love bestowed upon the Mario Franchise. Each game, is a rehash of the game before. In addition the game does nothing to showcase the graphical power of the Wii-U. It's time to do something different with Mario, I would have preferred to see something creative like the Super Mario RPG with an action RPG twist as opposed to this game.… Expand
  11. Big_Moose
    Dec 2, 2012
    5
    Mario's first adventure in the world of 1080p HD. The crisp clear image is beautiful and the Wii U makes way for some fun new mechanics. Unfortunately the lack of online co-op and the exhausted NSMB formula holds the game back from being anything spectacular.
  12. FThickett
    Nov 21, 2012
    7
    New Super Mario Brothers U is another foray into bland sameness. The similarities to NSMB are staggering. The music, the level design, the worlds, everything is the exact same bundle we've already ventured through. I understand that at this point in Mario's career there are bound to be worlds based on water levels and the inevitable fiery death levels at the end but now we're got theNew Super Mario Brothers U is another foray into bland sameness. The similarities to NSMB are staggering. The music, the level design, the worlds, everything is the exact same bundle we've already ventured through. I understand that at this point in Mario's career there are bound to be worlds based on water levels and the inevitable fiery death levels at the end but now we're got the guaranteed poison swamp and the guaranteed sky world. The Koopa Kids all play the same way, the Boom Boom bosses are still the EXACT same strategy as from Super Mario Bros. 3, everything is just so strikingly samey. The music is fun but it still recalls the old NSMB musical style which, to me, seems lazy. Super Mario Bros, Super Mario Bros 2, and Super Mario Bros 3, as well as World all had wonderful music and if you were to listen to the songs without video you could name which game it came from because they're all so drastically different. I'd be willing to bet a suite of NSMB music including the DS and 3DS titles would result in many people not knowing which tracks are from which games because they're all too similar.
    And then there's the gameplay itself. Mario and company (which, two toads? Really? Again? Why not let us play Peach ala Super Mario Bros. 2 or even bring other series staples into the fold?) control really well, the fluidity of level design paired with the tight controls make the game move really well. Playing on the Tablet is a treat due to it's motion sensors it still has the capabilities of the wii remote but due to it's size and buttons it has more substance as well. Wii remotes are exactly as expected and, honestly, I think the new sensor bar is even more responsive than the old Wii one, everything seems to work a lot better on the Wii U and that makes the game work well. Now for my largest complaint. This game is way too easy. It holds your hand. Now I realize this isn't a complaint for everybody but this is more of a warning for people with similar tastes to mine. It seems like more often than not, at the end of a level I'm getting a new item for my item bar, that I don't need, or when I get hit a mushroom will float in from off screen to buff me back up. Before I even reached my third world I had 99 lives and I've not lost many along the way (usually due to a bad jump, the only thing that can kill you any more apparently). These things paired with NSMB tendency to just give you tons of power ups all over the place makes it far too easy to get through the game, there is literally no challenge to your progress. Even pits can be easily survived if you're quick with the tablet to drop in a platform before you fall. Now, I will admit than then played with 4 - 5 players these power ups come in handy for the lighter gamers in a group and they make it more fun for the casual players but for single player it makes the game a cake walk, there's no challenge if there's a power up in every other question block. This game is fun, I won't take that away. Even though I find no challenge in it I still breeze through levels at a steady pace exploring for secrets and collecting big coins, it's a relaxing game more than a challenging one. When played with a group the game is far more interesting, it makes the casual throwing about of power ups more useful, unless you're playing with a group of Mario pros, in which case it's just too easy.
    Mario games are for everyone, I get that, and I still do enjoy this game, but the soul less sameness of this title to past NSMB titles make it less interesting and engaging. Every year, sometimes multiple times, I dust off my Super Nintendo and play through Super Mario World and a friend of mine and I play Super Mario Bros 3 on the NES from time to time, these games have a unique appeal to them, they aren't the exact same as the titles before them. I feel like NSMB U will be shelved and dusty after completion and a few more weeks of multiplayer fun. Hell, NSMB on my DS still gets a play through from time to time, but I don't expect this to be true of Mario U and it already isn't true of the Wii's NSMB. The long and short of it is, it's fun, but it's not substantial to the hardcore gamer.    … Expand
  13. hagelt18
    Nov 21, 2012
    7
    First off, the squirrel suit is awesome...They added some nice extra modes in this to extend the fun beyond what some of the previous NSMB games have had. The visuals look really nice on the wii u. The music feels like they stepped it up a bit in this versus the previous games which I thought had pretty cheesy circus music. This is another solid platformer with a nice challenge to it.First off, the squirrel suit is awesome...They added some nice extra modes in this to extend the fun beyond what some of the previous NSMB games have had. The visuals look really nice on the wii u. The music feels like they stepped it up a bit in this versus the previous games which I thought had pretty cheesy circus music. This is another solid platformer with a nice challenge to it. If you are trying to figure out what wii u game to get...you can't really go wrong with this one.… Expand
  14. YipManSays
    Dec 3, 2012
    7
    More of the same Mario we have become accustomed to over the past couple of years. New Super Mario Bros. U sticks to established mechanics created over the past couple years which isn't a bad thing because it works. The game is fun but like New Super Mario Bros. 2 on the 3DS the game lacks a certain type of soul. While fun I found myself become mildly bored by the game. The game does haveMore of the same Mario we have become accustomed to over the past couple of years. New Super Mario Bros. U sticks to established mechanics created over the past couple years which isn't a bad thing because it works. The game is fun but like New Super Mario Bros. 2 on the 3DS the game lacks a certain type of soul. While fun I found myself become mildly bored by the game. The game does have some interesting new features to it such as people being able to post messages from the MiiVerse that appear right on the map in the game. Overall the game is simply Mario and is another successful albeit somewhat lackluster entry in the franchise.… Expand
  15. tipsypants
    Dec 26, 2012
    7
    This is basically the same game as on the Wii. It is a lot of fun, the level design is great, the animations are great, the controls are tight.. but, there is nothing -new- about it. The enemies and music are recycled from the Wii verion. Some powerups have been removed and one new has been added. If you're new to Mario then this game is clear 10, but if you've played through New SuperThis is basically the same game as on the Wii. It is a lot of fun, the level design is great, the animations are great, the controls are tight.. but, there is nothing -new- about it. The enemies and music are recycled from the Wii verion. Some powerups have been removed and one new has been added. If you're new to Mario then this game is clear 10, but if you've played through New Super Mario Bros Wii, then you'll feel that something is lacking. It feels more like DLC for NSMB Wii than a new game. It's still a good game though, so it gets a 7.… Expand
  16. ignore78
    Jun 21, 2013
    5
    This mario is just another mario game. same old platforming with new improved graphics.
    it is fun to run and jump, collecting coins and stomp on enemies. but i now exact what to expect.
    no hidden areas, no surprises. the music is repetitive and boring. and the new power-up is no fun. its like a copy of "new super mario bros" (wii version) the only difference i see, is that the game    This mario is just another mario game. same old platforming with new improved graphics.
    it is fun to run and jump, collecting coins and stomp on enemies. but i now exact what to expect.
    no hidden areas, no surprises. the music is repetitive and boring.
    and the new power-up is no fun. its like a copy of "new super mario bros" (wii version)
    the only difference i see, is that the game is in "HD" i wish they did something complete different.    … Expand
  17. TristanBomb
    Oct 19, 2013
    5
    *Yaawwwwn*
    Just another game in the series. Same exact thing as all the other 2D games. No exploration, same cookie-cutter game. There's still no variation, and Nintendo is just relying on nostalgia at this point. If you like simple, linear, games, you might enjoy this if you're not sick of it already. If you liked Mario 64, Galaxy, or Sunshine better, skip this and wait for Nintendo to    *Yaawwwwn*
    Just another game in the series. Same exact thing as all the other 2D games. No exploration, same cookie-cutter game. There's still no variation, and Nintendo is just relying on nostalgia at this point. If you like simple, linear, games, you might enjoy this if you're not sick of it already. If you liked Mario 64, Galaxy, or Sunshine better, skip this and wait for Nintendo to do something new. That said, the game was playable. I couldnt bring myself to finish it, though, because I got bored really fast. The graphics are amazing and I would be delighted to see what they could do with a Galaxy-ish game, but the music was sub-par compared to Nintendo's usual. Gameplay, of course, I already went over, but it was generally really boring. Each level would sometimes look cool but after dying twice you're no longer interested.    … Expand
  18. Mariomaster63
    Sep 2, 2016
    7
    This game is pure HD and instead of worlds, you actually have names! Finally! You also can go up to FIVE players instead of 4. The challenges are quite a challenge and you know the graphics are outstanding. But it lacks nostalgia.
  19. TatsMcGee
    Sep 8, 2018
    7
    What Kind of Adventure?

    2-D Platforming adventure Was it fun? I have never been a huge fan of 2-D Mario games but this is well done and probably my favorite one, I have ever played. Are there any similar games? Any other Super Mario Bros or Donkey Kong Tropical Freeze. Favorite Character? Playing as single player, I had to play as Mario so I guess its an easy choice,    What Kind of Adventure?

    2-D Platforming adventure

    Was it fun?

    I have never been a huge fan of 2-D Mario games but this is well done and probably my favorite one, I have ever played.

    Are there any similar games?

    Any other Super Mario Bros or Donkey Kong Tropical Freeze.

    Favorite Character?

    Playing as single player, I had to play as Mario so I guess its an easy choice, Mario.

    Would you play it again?

    No, I had fun but not enough to play again. Its a well made 2-D platformer but unless you want to Speed Run this game, I don’t see a lot people replaying this game.

    Any Complaints?

    Some of the levels got really hard, I understand thats how Mario games go but by the end, I was pulling out my hair a bit. Also I wasn’t a huge fan of Nintendo really pushing the Mii Verse. After every level, it asked me if I wanted to post something on the Mii Verse. There should be a way to turn that off.

    How many hours did you play it?

    It took me approximately 10-11 hours to beat the whole game.    … Expand
  20. Jacob143
    Aug 1, 2023
    5
    This game is so mediocre. It can be fun yes but it doesn't change that this game just feels like New Super Mario Bros Wii dlc in hd with only a couple new powerups and they charged $60 for this. Do not play this just play New Super Mario Bros on the DS or Wii those are actually original and having actual new stuff in them. Do not recommend
  21. Mandulum
    Apr 8, 2019
    7
    Favorite Thing: It makes for some good couch coop.
    Least Favorite Thing: Not much has changed since the last time I played a side scrolling Mario game. That was in the late 80s.

    Date Completed: 2019-04-03
    Playtime: 10h
    Enjoyment: 7/10
    Recommendation: It's okay but better with others.
  22. Vanpire73
    May 2, 2014
    7
    "It's a meeeee, a Mario for the trillionth a tiiiiime, only in a H a D a!!!!", said Mario. Nothing you haven't seen before, except for the HD part of it.
  23. GoombaJMR
    Jul 11, 2015
    7
    A polished but somewhat bland game released as a launch title for the Wii U. New Super Mario Bros U does a good job of maintaining the good gameplay of the NSMB series. I'd have to say that it's nothing really new, and nothing really too special. The length is pretty short unfortunately, and the music, while somewhat new, is still more of the rehashed music that we've heard many years ago.A polished but somewhat bland game released as a launch title for the Wii U. New Super Mario Bros U does a good job of maintaining the good gameplay of the NSMB series. I'd have to say that it's nothing really new, and nothing really too special. The length is pretty short unfortunately, and the music, while somewhat new, is still more of the rehashed music that we've heard many years ago. I recommend getting the game if you're a fan of mario platform games, but not if you're expecting a good story, a long campaign, or something really new from the NSMB series. The revamped world map system, however, is pretty cool!

    Gameplay: 8.5/10
    Story: 3/10
    Music: 6.5/10
    Presentation: 9.5/10
    Length: 6/10
    Overall: 7.5/10    … Expand
  24. jakethesnack
    Oct 19, 2013
    7
    While not as fun as New Super Mario Bros Wii its still a good game that has some unique levels, some good music and some of the backgrounds look gorgeous.
  25. SonicmanMW3
    Oct 17, 2013
    7
    New Super Mario Brothers U is a good Wii U game, but it does the same as the rest of the games in the series. It plays the same, it looks the same, and the music is the same. With Mario being in HD the game looks amazing. The story is also the same Bowser stole Peach. Mario, Luigi, and the two nameless go and stop Bowser's plan, but now Mario and the other are thrown out of the castle andNew Super Mario Brothers U is a good Wii U game, but it does the same as the rest of the games in the series. It plays the same, it looks the same, and the music is the same. With Mario being in HD the game looks amazing. The story is also the same Bowser stole Peach. Mario, Luigi, and the two nameless go and stop Bowser's plan, but now Mario and the other are thrown out of the castle and Mario and the other must get to the castle. It still has the Four-player Co-op and the controls are the same as from the past New Mario Bros games. The Wii U gamepad is use to play on it alone and use in the new boost rush mode which lets the player to places blocks on the level and help with enemy. The New Super Mario Bros. Series is staring to get old and I wish Nintendo would just change the series to something different. I would recommend this to any Super Mario fan or to any Wii U owner.… Expand
  26. Aozz101x
    Feb 6, 2014
    7
    one of best mario games but has abit moments that didnt impress me
    one when you lose and havent had ask for save you start back were you last save untill you get that point
    the boss fight feel like same one to me like the wii version
    grate lo co multplayer of all and using the gamepad to stop a platform from losing
  27. Skyrus
    Mar 24, 2022
    7
    New Super Mario Bros. U is a gem in the Wii U Library and is a must for all Mario fans that own a Wii U. Though the game isn't that different from it's previous titles like New Super Mario Bros Wii. however the game is still filled with some new features like challenge mode and the Game Pad's features that include helping players out by adding platforms and the interactive Boost modeNew Super Mario Bros. U is a gem in the Wii U Library and is a must for all Mario fans that own a Wii U. Though the game isn't that different from it's previous titles like New Super Mario Bros Wii. however the game is still filled with some new features like challenge mode and the Game Pad's features that include helping players out by adding platforms and the interactive Boost mode (which sadly I haven't tried out yet due to that I wanted to play the game by myself). It may be a bit disappointing that Nintendo played it safe once again but this is still a solid Mario Title despite that.… Expand
  28. YellowMan64
    Sep 19, 2013
    7
    This game is fine, but can get boring very easily. Most of the levels are okay. The game should have added more things. The challenge mode is good. The game to me is a little below average in quality to me. That means It's good, but not extremely good.
  29. crazayman123
    Jul 27, 2014
    7
    I don't think this game deserves the rating this has. not the best mario game ever and DEFINITELY NOT AS GOOD AS ANY OF THE NES GAMES. the platforming feels so different to what I am used to. and sometimes mario just controls against you like not jumping as high as you want even though you KNOW he can jump that high. and no sprint button. how are you going to do speedruns when they tookI don't think this game deserves the rating this has. not the best mario game ever and DEFINITELY NOT AS GOOD AS ANY OF THE NES GAMES. the platforming feels so different to what I am used to. and sometimes mario just controls against you like not jumping as high as you want even though you KNOW he can jump that high. and no sprint button. how are you going to do speedruns when they took the sprint button out. and another thing, the game is $60!!!!! overpriced... get super luigi u's standalone disk. it is only $30 and is more optimized for speedruns. plus the disk has 82 all new levels… Expand
  30. shado474
    Dec 22, 2014
    7
    The game isn't worse that other games in the Super Mario Bros. series but having all these other interesting games to play as well, I usually don't spend much more than 1 hour of continuous gameplay on that one without feeling like switching to one of the more deeply interesting games. It's a fun hour, but it gets boring after that... I like it that it is more challenging than the 3DS game though.
  31. JRo55
    Sep 28, 2014
    6
    While this game isn't bad, it still isn't very fun either. There is just too many reused assets that really bring this game down. The best part about this game is the world map, and everything else is just mediocre. The music sucks and the boss battles are lame. The graphics are the best of the "New" series, but that isn't saying much. The gameplay and controls, however, are actuallyWhile this game isn't bad, it still isn't very fun either. There is just too many reused assets that really bring this game down. The best part about this game is the world map, and everything else is just mediocre. The music sucks and the boss battles are lame. The graphics are the best of the "New" series, but that isn't saying much. The gameplay and controls, however, are actually pretty good. In the end, pick this game up in the bargain bin. It isn't worth more than $25.… Expand
  32. Red-Opposom-098
    Dec 9, 2014
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Pretty good, innovative, and fun, although I wish the game-pad would count as a player, even though hang on SPOILER ALERT the princess gets captured again and is sent to bowser's new castle, if you ask this must have a great army of builders, he may as well just build a wall outside of his castle, but anyways this game is fun non the less it kinda needs a better story other than save the princess… Expand
  33. TheSiriocaz
    Oct 27, 2014
    7
    New Super Mario Bros. U offers the necessary stuff to be a honest and sufficient platformer, just don't demand challenge, new stuff or something like that.
  34. BeaQueen
    Mar 4, 2017
    6
    Almost the same game everyone played on Wii. It is a good game, but they didn't add anything special to it. Nintendo, you can do it better than than, come one.
  35. njja02
    May 15, 2018
    6
    The game is fun, especially with co-op. But, the game feels the same as the original game on the DS. Just wish there was more originality.
  36. guajefer
    Jul 8, 2016
    6
    I know that Super Mario saga is the most popular in the industry but, I don´t like so much. I´ve beaten the game because of my proud, but I haven´t enjoyed like in other games. That is the typical 2D platform in which uou have to run and jump, no more, unless you get a transformation. Is the same gameplay of every Mario 2D game, so it´s a good but nothing new.
  37. ericwithcheese
    Nov 11, 2015
    6
    A few years ago, the New Super Mario series was fresh and fun: the Nintendo DS version was a great throwback while the Wii edition introduced four player madness. But this Wii U title just feels like a "Me, too!" add on that is just routine, more of the same stuff. Not that it doesn't get fun, but there is nothing here that makes this game stand out.
  38. Forever_Alexone
    Nov 25, 2015
    6
    There's nothing new on this game. It's pretty much the HD version of the Wii version.... It was fun but I got bored of it right away. This game is more difficult which is one of the reasons I didn't like it as much like the Wii version but eh its okay I guess.
  39. Shadow1
    May 27, 2016
    6
    This game is average as New SMB Wii, but graphics much better than in NSMB Wii . Change are small, but this game not worse than New Super Mario Bros Wii, but not better than NSMB Wii and I think NSMB Wii and U much better than NSMB on DS or NSMB 2 on 3DS, but NSMB 2 on 3DS much better than NSMB on DS . In NSMB U graphics is awesome for 2D Game and multiplayer in NSMB U worse than NSMB Wii,This game is average as New SMB Wii, but graphics much better than in NSMB Wii . Change are small, but this game not worse than New Super Mario Bros Wii, but not better than NSMB Wii and I think NSMB Wii and U much better than NSMB on DS or NSMB 2 on 3DS, but NSMB 2 on 3DS much better than NSMB on DS . In NSMB U graphics is awesome for 2D Game and multiplayer in NSMB U worse than NSMB Wii, but very amazing too and I think is good game, but change with NSMB Wii are small because I rate this game is 6/10 .… Expand
  40. Laer
    Mar 14, 2017
    5
    Un Mario de corte clásico, con un apartado gráfico mejorado y un añadido cooperativo a 4 jugadores.

    Cumple con su objetivo, es entretenido, pero no mucho más. Si has jugado a anteriores del mismo estilo, y vas a jugarlo en solitario, no te pierdes nada.
  41. BluesBrothers
    Jul 25, 2017
    6
    New Super Mario Bros. U, while as colorful and charming as ever, in some ways feels like a frame-for-frame retread of it's Wii counterpart. It has the same "Bowser stole peach" story, in the same settings, The same Princess Peach voice over from 2 consoles ago, and let's not forget the Koopalings are back. It does, however, introduce some new elements such as the Gamepad platform-creatingNew Super Mario Bros. U, while as colorful and charming as ever, in some ways feels like a frame-for-frame retread of it's Wii counterpart. It has the same "Bowser stole peach" story, in the same settings, The same Princess Peach voice over from 2 consoles ago, and let's not forget the Koopalings are back. It does, however, introduce some new elements such as the Gamepad platform-creating and Nabbit, along with creative and entertaining boss fights as well. I would only recommend this if you already have a handful of WiiU titles and are looking for a game where you don't have to think too much, especially now that it's on Nintendo Selects for half the price.… Expand
  42. Kick454
    Apr 30, 2018
    5
    Meh... the only NSMB I don't really like that much. However, there are still things I do like about the game.

    Pros: + Graphics: Wii U games usually look pretty decent, and this one definitely looks better than most. + Baby Yoshis: They're a cool gimmick, but make the game easier than it already is. + Soundtrack: Good, but not great. However I love the grass level theme. Cons: -    Meh... the only NSMB I don't really like that much. However, there are still things I do like about the game.

    Pros:
    + Graphics: Wii U games usually look pretty decent, and this one definitely looks better than most.
    + Baby Yoshis: They're a cool gimmick, but make the game easier than it already is.
    + Soundtrack: Good, but not great. However I love the grass level theme.

    Cons:
    - Almost no Originality: This is a problem within the series as a whole. However, it's not as bad or prominent as in Pokemon.
    - Difficulty: Easy as heck. However, it's still harder than BotW.
    - Level Design: It's... meh.

    Overall, NSMBU isn't a bad game, but it's not good either, and warrants a 5.5/10 from me.    … Expand
  43. LeoChikis
    Jun 23, 2020
    7
    this was the very first Mario game I´ve ever played and, well, it was ok the first time, but after playing other Mario games this one is kinda bad, is fun to play but it´s just more of the same. Right now is just another Mario game.
  44. joel_tdl
    Dec 21, 2019
    7
    La siguiente reseña fue publicada originalmente en 3djuegos:

    Más de lo mismo JUGABILIDAD: Una jugabilidad simple y sencilla que no pretende cambiar nada, sino mantenerse en la formula ganadora que Nintendo encontró hace tantos años. El juego es divertido, y de eso se trata. Dicho eso no hay mucho más que agregar, en ninguno de los apartados. GRÁFICOS: MarioU no intenta    La siguiente reseña fue publicada originalmente en 3djuegos:

    Más de lo mismo

    JUGABILIDAD:
    Una jugabilidad simple y sencilla que no pretende cambiar nada, sino mantenerse en la formula ganadora que Nintendo encontró hace tantos años. El juego es divertido, y de eso se trata.

    Dicho eso no hay mucho más que agregar, en ninguno de los apartados.

    GRÁFICOS:
    MarioU no intenta sobresalir en el apartado gráfico, no obstante hay algunos fondos bastante agradables a la vista, si bien no es nada especial o que nos quite el aliento como lo han logrado otras producciones en 2D.

    SONIDO:
    De nuevo, nada especial

    INNOVACIÓN:
    Tal cual el titulo de la reseña. MarioU es divertido sí, pero deja en claro la falta de creatividad en que ha caído Nintendo con la serie.    … Expand
  45. GameDudeGuy
    Feb 4, 2021
    5
    this is the worst new series game for me out of the bunch i really dont like this game its sucks
  46. BeeSting1
    Nov 26, 2021
    6
    This was the last 2D Mario platformer of my marathon. How did it end? Not bad. There was a “new” flying squirrel power up. But really, it was nothing more than a tanooki rip off without the tail whip. I liked how I could view the entire hub world right off the bat, cause it gave me a sense of what to expect, and allowed me to better manage the power ups I had in storage. Speaking of that.This was the last 2D Mario platformer of my marathon. How did it end? Not bad. There was a “new” flying squirrel power up. But really, it was nothing more than a tanooki rip off without the tail whip. I liked how I could view the entire hub world right off the bat, cause it gave me a sense of what to expect, and allowed me to better manage the power ups I had in storage. Speaking of that. The green toad houses put me in a small mini game where two cannons shot 1-ups and bowser faces. Every 1-up I got was a +1 life, and every Bowser I got was a -1 life. The problem was the hitboxes on these cannon balls. Here, you can clearly see the 1-up intercept Toad’s body, yet it wasn’t captured. And another one here. This happened multiple times. I know this was just a bonus mini game, but it none the less still infuriated me cause I got a couple game overs because I was short a life or two, which could have been avoided if the mini game wasn’t broken. Plus, this game reused the bull **** saving system as the other New Super Mario Brother games, meaning I could only save after boss fights. So game overs were extra punishing.

    Aside from that, the game basically reiterated most of New Super Mario Bros Wii. Though I did like the obstacle design in this one more. Namely, the long retracting platforms that quite a few levels had. The haunted mansions were never my favorite, and it was no exception here. Like this one in world 6. I was stumped for so long. Had the timer run out multiple times, only to learn the solution was to walk into a wall that actually wasn’t a wall. Sure, this has always been a trademark for the mansions, but I’m sick of it. Forcing the player to randomly walk into walls to progress isn’t fun, at least not for me. A little hint of where the false wall is would have been great.

    I don’t know what they can change, but the side scrolling Mario series needs a change. The kind of change we saw from Super Mario 64 to Super Mario Sunshine...then to Galaxy. The “New” Super Mario Bros series isn’t NEW anymore. The title is a blatant lie. It has turned into the Nintendo version of the Call of Duty series. I want something new. Now, the Super Mario Maker series is great, which I’m not getting into in this video, cause that’s more of a player created content peer to peer game. Nintendo, please put an end to the New Super Mario Bros series. I want a truly NEW side scrolling Mario platforming experience.    … Expand
  47. TeaFan556
    Dec 19, 2021
    7
    {RU]
    Говорю честно, играть в соло очень скучно. Если вы уже набили руку в этой серии, тогда она не особо уникальная. НО! Если проходите её в мультиплеере, тогда получити незабываемый фан. Как-то так :3
  48. Jattaman
    Oct 8, 2022
    7
    Episodio divertente e colorato, giocabile anche in più persone.
    Un platform 2D che segue i classici episodi di Mario, con grafica colorata e ottima giocabilità.
  49. FireBroFilms
    Aug 15, 2022
    7
    ‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎
  50. blinkmass
    Jun 23, 2023
    7
    A good game, but in retrospect, a terrible launch title for the Wii U. It did a poor job demonstrating the console's capabilities, both in terms of HD graphics and utilizing the GamePad in a compelling way. Not to mention the fact that it released the same year as NSMB2, cannibalizing sales between both games. This was never going to be a system seller, (which a first-party launch titleA good game, but in retrospect, a terrible launch title for the Wii U. It did a poor job demonstrating the console's capabilities, both in terms of HD graphics and utilizing the GamePad in a compelling way. Not to mention the fact that it released the same year as NSMB2, cannibalizing sales between both games. This was never going to be a system seller, (which a first-party launch title should be) considering there were three cheaper, practically identical alternatives available on other consoles.

    If this game has anything going for it, it's the challenge mode. I sunk 15+ hours into finishing that alone, and I enjoyed it considerably more than the main campaign. However, there's really not much else notable about it in comparison to the other games in the series, which appears to be a running theme. The NSMB series is so overdone at this point (and was 11 years ago) and this isn't the big refresh 2D Mario needed and the Wii U deserved, which we seem to be finally getting with Super Mario Bros. Wonder.    … Expand

Awards & Rankings

7
#7 Best Wii U Game of 2012
2
#2 Most Discussed Wii U Game of 2012
1
#1 Most Shared Wii U Game of 2012

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
84

Generally favorable reviews - based on 70 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 65 out of 70
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 70
  3. Negative: 0 out of 70
  1. Armchair Empire
    Feb 21, 2013
    90
    Everyone gets a chance to play and interact and have fun. Really, that’s what Nintendo excels at, getting everyone involved and allowing childish enthusiasm to file down the sharp corners of the vexation of adulthood and life experience. New Super Mario Bros. U does that very thing.
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  2. Universo Nintendo
    Feb 19, 2013
    90
    Yes, the new 2D adventure is not a demonstration of Wii U's potential, but it's extremely competent as a plataformer, adding some elements that probably will accompany the series in the future and making, though perhaps unconsciously with its final boss, the eyes of players sparkle and give us a taste of what to expect of Mario in its next tridimensional adventure.
    Read full review
  3. Riot Pixels
    Feb 14, 2013
    77
    No matter how much content is recycled here, New Super Mario Bros. U is a gem in Wii U’s launch line-up. Problem is, there is nothing that sets it apart from a long line of its predecessors.
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