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. HMK
    Jan 26, 2013
    8
    After 3 games that desperately tried to revitalize the core Super Mario Bros game play and style Nintendo has released New Super Mario Bros. U on the heels of New Super Mario Bros. 2, after the passing performance it
  2. Wignut21
    Feb 13, 2013
    8
    It's super Mario in HD. The gameplay doesn't need any explaining, but the graphics are superb. No real great gameplay features, but Mario doesn't really need any. My only wish would be for some online play, if we had that it would be a 10.
  3. MidWestBest
    Feb 23, 2013
    8
    It's a New Super Mario Bros. game. There isn't much else to say. If you like Mario games than you will like this one. The kids like it, I like it, my wife likes it. Good graphics and controls as usual.
  4. ricklongo
    Jun 27, 2013
    8
    As you should know by mereling reading the game's name, New Super Mario Bros U is more of the same 2D platforming magic that started making waves more than 25 years ago.

    As the first Mario adventure on the Wii U, it adds the allure of HD graphics for the first time in the franchise's history. It also cleverly brings back a more fluid overworld, in the style of SNES classic Super Mario    As you should know by mereling reading the game's name, New Super Mario Bros U is more of the same 2D platforming magic that started making waves more than 25 years ago.

    As the first Mario adventure on the Wii U, it adds the allure of HD graphics for the first time in the franchise's history. It also cleverly brings back a more fluid overworld, in the style of SNES classic Super Mario World, and it's incredible how that change alone manages to push the sense of immersion way past the 3DS counterpart, New Super Mario Bros 2.

    Aside from that, there is little true innovation here. We get a new power up that transforms Mario into a flying squirrel, but it packs a sense of déjà-vu thanks to the classic raccoon suit. There's a new character as well, the rabbit-like thief Nabbit, who should pack enough charm to keep showing up in future Mario-related games.

    As much as I would like to be blown away by a super-novel Mario 2D adventure, though, it's hard to complain much about this game. Fans of the genre should be satisfied with the tried-and-true action sequences, and should spend quite a few hours looking for star coins and secret exits. Aside from the main story mode, you should find plenty of extra challenges here as well, both for single-player and multiplayer experiences. And yes, getting to play with your own Mii is priceless.

    Especially given the lack of new releases for the Wii U, New Super Mario Bros U should be a part of pretty much every early collection for the platform.    … Expand
  5. skippedgamer
    Mar 19, 2013
    8
    Before I continue, I have to say that I love Mario Brothers. I find myself overplaying Mario bros, and dying a lot in the games. When I got Mario Bros U, I was thinking that I will be playing a remake of the first NSMB game. I was wrong. This game is filled with new ideas, and revivals of old Mario Bros concepts. I also found there being many secrets in the game. My only problem withBefore I continue, I have to say that I love Mario Brothers. I find myself overplaying Mario bros, and dying a lot in the games. When I got Mario Bros U, I was thinking that I will be playing a remake of the first NSMB game. I was wrong. This game is filled with new ideas, and revivals of old Mario Bros concepts. I also found there being many secrets in the game. My only problem with that aspect is this, if you want to find secrets, just jump into any wall you see. The story is the same, the princess gets kidnapped. Well not kidnapped, but thrown by a giant bionic arm, and she landed directly in the castle. Good trick shot Bowser. Then I started being the mean jerk that I am as mario, Running and jumping on innosent little creatures, having some of the most fun I had on this system. It is fun playing alone, but everyone gets killed by the multiplayer. It is usual NSMB CO-OP. You should reach the end, but most of the times, you end up killing your teammates. Basically, multiplayer turns into a jump based smash bros. The gamepad is fun to play with. The only problem is, the gamepad player tries despratly to kill you with the pad. Is there anything that can make it better, Yes. First, I wanted to see Pro Controller Support. It was fun playing with the game pad. WE PAYED $30+ FOR OUR PRO CONTROLLER, DO YOU GUYS THINK WE WANT TO USE IT FOR ANYTHING OTHER THAN SHOOTERS NINTENDO. Also It would be awesome if you could play as your mii in story mode. Also I would have wanted to see the gamepad player be able to control another mario charactor. Most likely Wario. Finally, It is annoying that player one has to always play as Mario. Seriouslly, Blue Toad is cute, I want more Blue Toad Action. In the end, the game is fun, but its lack of replayability and exclusion of certain features killed the game, I give this game 8 dead koopas out of 10… Expand
  6. Hedra
    Nov 24, 2013
    8
    This is a great looking update to the traditional Mario format, which has always been a favourite with my kids. My son brought his friends home from school to play it on the day our new Wii U arrived. Cue 3 hours of non-stop shrieks of enjoyment!

    It doesn't really show off the Gamepad's features as well as some other Wii-U games, and my youngest beat the game on single player mode    This is a great looking update to the traditional Mario format, which has always been a favourite with my kids. My son brought his friends home from school to play it on the day our new Wii U arrived. Cue 3 hours of non-stop shrieks of enjoyment!

    It doesn't really show off the Gamepad's features as well as some other Wii-U games, and my youngest beat the game on single player mode within a couple of weeks (he is a particularly adept player, though) The co-op feature is where it shines, I think, and judging by all the grinning faces, this game is a solid hit.    … Expand
  7. Richith
    Jan 13, 2014
    8
    This game is so much fun to play. This is one of the best side scrolling platformer's around today. The graphics are very colourful and fun to look at and the variety in environments is very nice as well. Using the different power ups is as fun as ever. The difficulty is just right and for people who may be less skilled there is a super guide mode where the game shows you how to getThis game is so much fun to play. This is one of the best side scrolling platformer's around today. The graphics are very colourful and fun to look at and the variety in environments is very nice as well. Using the different power ups is as fun as ever. The difficulty is just right and for people who may be less skilled there is a super guide mode where the game shows you how to get through or level or you can just let it do it for you instead so it doesn't get too frustrating.

    There's not much else to say really this is good old Mario, the gameplay just gets better and better...    … Expand
  8. MrSonicFan
    Jun 2, 2013
    8
    Without a doubt, this is the best New Mario game ever. It blows every other game in the New Mario series out of the water. it has great level design, gorgeous graphics, and fun gameplay, i believe this is the best 2D Mario game since Mario World.
  9. kylesar
    Apr 21, 2013
    8
    Excellent game. The graphics are incredible, and the levels are as challenging as ever. The thing that keeps this game from getting a 10 from me is some of the power-ups are straight up retarted. The expanding baby yoshi made me mad, but other than that, I would recommend this game to anybody
  10. camilosanchez16
    Jun 22, 2013
    8
    It's amazing to see Mario in HD, plus it's quite interesting the idea of ​​a unified world and complete full integration with Miiverse. The idea of not being able to use the Wii U GamePad for anything in single player mode is a little bit disappointing and would have been better if in the multiplayer mode, a player could control a character. Overall, not the best Mario game, but if theIt's amazing to see Mario in HD, plus it's quite interesting the idea of ​​a unified world and complete full integration with Miiverse. The idea of not being able to use the Wii U GamePad for anything in single player mode is a little bit disappointing and would have been better if in the multiplayer mode, a player could control a character. Overall, not the best Mario game, but if the best game of Wii U so far.… Expand
  11. juanandesign
    Jul 19, 2013
    8
    Mario comes to Wii u and gets his best classic platforms game. Full resolution for pretty graphics, everything has a better look and it is quite long. It has around 100 stages, but after complete them now you have more extra modes and the chance of 5 players gaming, sharing with people in Miiverse... It is not something new, it is something renewed, and in the best way. It is not the bestMario comes to Wii u and gets his best classic platforms game. Full resolution for pretty graphics, everything has a better look and it is quite long. It has around 100 stages, but after complete them now you have more extra modes and the chance of 5 players gaming, sharing with people in Miiverse... It is not something new, it is something renewed, and in the best way. It is not the best game that Wii u can have, but it is a good starter. If you mis it with New Super Luigi U... then give the game a 9. The part of Luigi has the wild that maybe you can miss from the mean part of the game...… Expand
  12. jeff_reviews
    Jul 23, 2013
    8
    Like most Mario games, they are very similar to each other, and in this case, it's once again the same. Though the Wii U gaming console does offer a new gadgets to help the Wii Remote player, nothing is very new in the game. Despite this, the game is very fun and enjoyable to play, and I recommend it for on the Wii U.
  13. knifeandfork
    Dec 7, 2013
    8
    When I played New super Mario Bros 2, I was worried Nintendo had run out of new ideas, but New super Mario Bros U has proved me wrong. This is not as good as the Mario Bros DS and Wii, but it comes close. The world map is all connected, a bit like Mario World, but it's not really different from the world maps in the other mario games. Mranwhile, the levels are fantastic, full ofWhen I played New super Mario Bros 2, I was worried Nintendo had run out of new ideas, but New super Mario Bros U has proved me wrong. This is not as good as the Mario Bros DS and Wii, but it comes close. The world map is all connected, a bit like Mario World, but it's not really different from the world maps in the other mario games. Mranwhile, the levels are fantastic, full of creativity, challenge, and great design. Almost every level was cleverly designed, and the perfect difficulty balance. Especially the last three worlds were challenging, but super guide is usually there to help out noobs. Multiplayer makes it yet crazier. Some may not like multoplayer but I do. It is annoying though when the screen freezes mid-jump while someone else is collecting a power-up. That is a stupid idea. But the game doen't end there. There is also challenge mode, which contains about sixty challenges, each of which tasks you with a specific aim, eg speedrun a level, or bounce on bullet bills withput touching the ground to earn sixty 1-ups. Even the easier challrnges could have you failing many times, and the hardest could possibly have you dying hundreds of times. Challenge mode is a fantastic addition. There are also boost rush modes and coin battle. But how does nsmbu make use of the gamepad? The answer is boost mode, in which players use wiimotes, and an additional player places blocks using the gamepad. Is it fun? No- it's as creative as it sounds. But despite not using the gamepad in a good way, NSMBU is a fantastic mario game.… Expand
  14. Nertak
    Jul 23, 2013
    8
    I had fun playing New Super Mario U and this is really all that matters. The game has the bright and cheerful animation that we all have come to expect from any Mario games. It has great responsive controls, and a decent variety of levels. As always, at least in recent years, each level has 3 star coins to collect. Whether or not you choose to get each and every one will greatly effectI had fun playing New Super Mario U and this is really all that matters. The game has the bright and cheerful animation that we all have come to expect from any Mario games. It has great responsive controls, and a decent variety of levels. As always, at least in recent years, each level has 3 star coins to collect. Whether or not you choose to get each and every one will greatly effect how long it takes you to play the game. If you skip the star coins or just use a guide to get them then your play through will be pretty fast. What I did was make a legitimate attempt to get each star coin on my own. If I couldn't find one I would just skip it and move on. Then at the very end I came back using a guide and picked up everything I missed. Of the 240+ star coins there were only 5 or so I ended up using a guide for and of the secret exits I found half on my own. Using that system It took me a while to beat the game.

    So why didn't I give the game a 10?

    1. I found the game too easy, and that did take a little of the enjoyment away.

    2. Yoshi and especially baby Yoshi feel like they were tacked on at the very end. Neither were important to any level as all could be beaten without a Yoshi. They were also used so rarely that they just seem out of place. By comparison Yoshi was a major part of Mario World with level catered around him. They really should have done the same with mario u.

    3. The game played it too safe. It didn't innovate the franchise at all. Not in level design, not in power ups, not in anything. The few parts that were interesting were all shown in advance to the game launching so they didn't even have the impact they could have had.

    4. I don't like the world map. Everything connecting everywhere makes it too hard to replay each level. A secret exit will create a long track leading to a secret level. If you want to replay the game using your existing game file it makes for A very schizophrenic experience with paths constantly leading away.

    5. I found the music disappointing. Mario games usually have a great soundtrack but the tracks in Mario u were bland and uninspired. This actually is my biggest gripe with the game.

    To be clear none of these problems ruins the experience of the game. Its still fun and its definitely worth picking up. They just prevent it from being a Masterpiece    … Expand
  15. rhaynes7
    Nov 23, 2013
    8
    Mario takes his first step on Wii U, and as expected, it's fantastic. This game has the same great polish that we would expect from Nintendo, keeping everything familiar while building on it with some new mechanics. With 4 titles with the New Super Mario Bros, they are starting to outstay their welcome though.

    In a nice change of events, you don't start the game near the castle, but    Mario takes his first step on Wii U, and as expected, it's fantastic. This game has the same great polish that we would expect from Nintendo, keeping everything familiar while building on it with some new mechanics. With 4 titles with the New Super Mario Bros, they are starting to outstay their welcome though.

    In a nice change of events, you don't start the game near the castle, but are rather blasted away into a forest. Also, they changed around the music, but keep the same ah's and what not in the soundtrack. This aesthetic change from the previous games are very short-lived and you quickly find that you've gone through the same exact kind of levels in the previous 3 NSMB's. As a result, you wonder how much of it's actually new and how much of it's recycled.

    Nevertheless, this game offers many unique challenges that really encourage you to flex your platforming muscles, tempting you to try different things likely at your own peril. That's what I've always loved about Mario though. Furthermore, there seem to be a much larger amount of hidden secrets and pathways that also encourage you to try and go into every pipe possible and to seek out every challenge. These things are no less enjoyable today as it was yesterday.

    As a completionist, the game kept me satisfied with the star coins littered throughout the levels and plenty of challenges in the post game.

    Overall, I came out satisfied with the game, but with 4 NSMB titles, the content is feeling more and more recycled, and it may be a time for a change.    … Expand
  16. Hammad80
    Dec 22, 2013
    8
    A very fun game to play. HD graphics and very detailed. Crisp sound. The thing is that it is the same thing OVER and OVER again, but still, great game and fun to play.
  17. guitarguy001
    Jan 9, 2014
    8
    This game is fun, but it is not as good as the Wii version. The game looks great in HD, is loads of fun in co-op and the levels are well designed. However, this game gets very boring after beating the main campaign and there are very few levels that are worth repeating. But the game is enjoyable, just not a must own.
  18. Lakshry
    Feb 8, 2014
    8
    Let's sum-up my feelings about this game, considering i had New Super Mario Bros. Wii

    Positive: -Graphics *-* ! I really find myself looking at the decor and saying it's beautiful. -It still pleasant and funny ! -There are some new interesting mechanics -The baby yoshis is a nice add -Catching Nabbit is quite easy but adds a bit more challenge -The new games in the toad houses    Let's sum-up my feelings about this game, considering i had New Super Mario Bros. Wii

    Positive:
    -Graphics *-* ! I really find myself looking at the decor and saying it's beautiful.
    -It still pleasant and funny !
    -There are some new interesting mechanics
    -The baby yoshis is a nice add
    -Catching Nabbit is quite easy but adds a bit more challenge
    -The new games in the toad houses

    Negative:
    -It may be me but i had the feeling the levels were quite short
    -It's much easier if you already experienced super mario bros on Wii, and it feels more like a New super mario bros Wii 2 than a brand new game
    -Indeed, more innovation wouldn't have be bad

    That's almost all i have to say. In conclusion, it's a really nice game, but i suggest that if you're hesitating between this game and another platformer (like DKtropical freeze which is coming soon), you'd better buy the other game. Yep, i'd put Mario Bros U as a secondary game for Wii U even if it's very good !
    Also, i mut precise that i bought it with New Super Luigi U (which i didn't experienced yet) and i think it has the capacity (with what i saw from it) to offset New Super Mario Bros. U problems. One last thing, i suggest you buy the version with NSLU included, it's cheaper from what i saw.    … Expand
  19. nonchalantgamer
    Sep 5, 2014
    8
    New Super Mario Bros U is a very familiar entry to the Mario bros lineup but that's not necessarily a bad thing. The Visuals On the Wii U for SMB U look beautiful in HD, all of the worlds look vibrant and everything is crisp. As for Game-play the level designs are pretty good overall with some really good twist thrown into each world. the new suits they added to the game are greatNew Super Mario Bros U is a very familiar entry to the Mario bros lineup but that's not necessarily a bad thing. The Visuals On the Wii U for SMB U look beautiful in HD, all of the worlds look vibrant and everything is crisp. As for Game-play the level designs are pretty good overall with some really good twist thrown into each world. the new suits they added to the game are great additions including the acorn suit and the ice flower suit, as well as the baby yoshi's which offer up different interesting ways to tackle a level. The game is pretty challenging and rewarding thanks to the very nice controls. it feels great on the game-pad to move around and is very responsive. The only gripe is that sometimes Mario is a bit slippery after a jump. As for Sound, The soundtrack isn't bad but it does get repetitive after awhile but im glad they kept some of the original stuff from previous games. Replay-ability isn't to good unfortunately, i completed the game in a couple of weeks and after that there isn't to much incentive to go back and give the levels another try except for the star coins which don't offer any reward.

    Verdict- Super Mario Bros. U is a very Familiar game which is unfortunate at times because i want change sometimes but they stuck to the core formula and added enough changes where it doesn't feel like a repeat. the sound isn't bad but gets repetitive after awhile and the replay-ability isn't to great but the core game-play is still as fun as ever so if your a big Mario fan you should definitely pick this game up.    … Expand
  20. joaopontesvaz
    Nov 2, 2016
    8
    Graphics: 8.2 Sound: 8.5 Gameplay: 9 Fun/Story: 8.2

    Like all Mario´s games: colorful, great level design, addicted and intuitive gameplay. Perhaps less repetition and more innovation could raised the score.
  21. Linkruleshyrule
    Oct 3, 2014
    8
    This is a great game but i think its time for Nintendo to move on from the "New Series" Like something that is as great as galaxay, mario 64 or even 3d world but i want the next mario to be even funner than them. Dont make another New series Mario game please Nintendo im begging you they are just to much of the same
  22. forevernes
    May 20, 2018
    8
    new super mario bros u es mi primer juego de wiiu, excelente juego de plataformas ver a mario por primera ves en hd es increible, nintendo EAD a creado un excelente juego, pero muy poco innovador, trae el exito de wii para wiiu, la banda sonora se me hizo ya muy usada, no quita que sea muy buena, pero reciclar nunca es bueno, ahora los puntos buenos, excelente rejugabilidad, dificultad muynew super mario bros u es mi primer juego de wiiu, excelente juego de plataformas ver a mario por primera ves en hd es increible, nintendo EAD a creado un excelente juego, pero muy poco innovador, trae el exito de wii para wiiu, la banda sonora se me hizo ya muy usada, no quita que sea muy buena, pero reciclar nunca es bueno, ahora los puntos buenos, excelente rejugabilidad, dificultad muy buena de facil a realmente exigente, niveles muy bien logrados y el punto mas fuerte los yoshi bebe me recuerda mucho a mario world esa joya de snes, la batalla contra bowser es una de las mas epicas de la saga, bueno, new super mario es un excelente juego de plataformas pero que falla en la innovaccion se parece mucho al de wii, nota 8,5… Expand
  23. Jovialus
    Aug 11, 2015
    8
    It's a great game. I have to admit it looks a lot like it's predecessor on the Wii, in terms of graphics (only now it's in HD) and gameplay. Still, it's a great game and it plays good. There's a good amount of content and especially the levels in Superstar Road are really cool and satisfying to complete.
  24. Digibutter64
    Sep 21, 2015
    8
    In my opinion, it's not the best 2D Mario platformer out there, but New Super Mario Bros. U manages to entertain thanks to its new features (challenge mode is a highlight) and HD graphics that make excellent use of the Wii U hardware, which is a good sign for a launch game.
  25. Cosmozerk
    Feb 26, 2016
    8
    New super mario bros u is a good game, but not an amazing one tho.

    STORY: Bowser kidnaps peach and mario must go save, well that didn't take too long. PRESENTATION: Graphics, art direction, and aesthetics everything looks nice, however that's because it looks just like all the other new super mario bros games and aside from some new graphical ideas like the new acuarela type levels    New super mario bros u is a good game, but not an amazing one tho.

    STORY: Bowser kidnaps peach and mario must go save, well that didn't take too long.

    PRESENTATION: Graphics, art direction, and aesthetics everything looks nice, however that's because it looks just like all the other new super mario bros games and aside from some new graphical ideas like the new acuarela type levels and such there's really nothing terribly new, but the game still looks good, it's colorful, it's in HD and for me that's all i need to keep my eyes happy.

    GAMEPLAY: It's pretty much just new super mario bros wii with some "new" things, obviously, mario controls exactly like his wii counterpart, he can jump, run, ground pound and do the spin jump.
    There are some new levels and bosses, but many ideas are ripped right out of new super mario bros wii and the new power ups like the acorn suit along with the P variation aren't enough to make it feel fresh. All the old power ups are back, though you can unlock use the propeller and penguin suit in the special 9th world, yeah that's back too and once again you have to collect all star coins of every level of every world to unlock all the level of the...well 9th world (and no it's not a spoiler because anyone that has played any mario game post super mario world knows that something like this exists).
    The level designs once again are creative and solid and there's secret alternate roots hidden in some levels to get shortcuts to reach bowser a lot earlier, but you will have to play an extra level in order to complete the shortcut. Yoshi is back to give you power ups when you collect 5 fruits , he can eat enemies and do the flutter jump, but now the baby yoshis are back from super mario world and depending on the color they can do a number of things, the yellow ones can illuminate areas, the pink ones can become a balloon and allow you to get multiple jumps in the air, finally the blue one's can shoot bubbles that can convert enemies into coins and you can bounce on them.
    In toad houses you can play minigames to get more power ups (that you can stack up in a bar returning from super mario bros 3) and get extra lives. There's also this nabbits chases where you have to catch a thief named nabbit in order to return the stuff that he robbed to a toad, this is the way that you get the P acorn suit. Enemy battles are back from super mario bros 3 and they behave just like in that game, you enter a battle arena to clear out the enemies in it and if you do it you will get a reward. Finally local 4 player madness it's back and it's more chaotic than ever, now a 5th player can join in on the madness, by placing platforms all over the level....just....don't do it. I can't talk much about the challenge or mii modes because i haven't touched them, but i'm sure they are fun.

    In conclusion New Super Mario Bros U it's a good game, but i don't think it's worth paying full price for it, unlike the title says the game is not that "new" and it really depends on old mechanics in order to have quality and doesn't do anything to set it apart from the wii counterpart, on top of all that the game is not that hard. I managed to remain at above 80 lives in my entire playthrough with it clocking at 12 hours with 100% completion. I feel that if you already have New super mario bros wii, then i say you are not missing on anything, but if you don't and just so happens that you have a wii u....then go ahead pick it up, but only on the cheap. I'll give it a 8/10. It's a good game but nothing spectacular.    … Expand
  26. EpicLadySponge
    Mar 26, 2016
    8
    Mario's back in another NEW Super Mario Bros. adventure. Only this type, he's going to your Wii U to have the most fun out of any gamer out there possible.
  27. vinicius77777
    Feb 24, 2016
    8
    esse jogo é divertido e bom pra passar o tempo, relembrar a época dos jogos 2D. ele tem ótimos desafios, ótima trilha sonora, boa jogabilidade. porém perde alguns pontos: continua não dando pra jogar online o modo cassa moedas, isso foi uma coisa que eu reclamei do bros wii e continua no mario bros u. esse foi o maior motivo pra eu não ter dado 10. mas dei 8 pois é um jogo muito bom praesse jogo é divertido e bom pra passar o tempo, relembrar a época dos jogos 2D. ele tem ótimos desafios, ótima trilha sonora, boa jogabilidade. porém perde alguns pontos: continua não dando pra jogar online o modo cassa moedas, isso foi uma coisa que eu reclamei do bros wii e continua no mario bros u. esse foi o maior motivo pra eu não ter dado 10. mas dei 8 pois é um jogo muito bom pra passar o tempo e jogar com os amigos. mas com um modo online ficaria show.… Expand
  28. LinkxPeach
    Sep 14, 2016
    8
    New Super Mario Bros. U is a fun platform game. But, as you progress throughout the game. Each stage gets too challenging causing you to get hit so frequently and causing you to lose your power-up so quickly and possibly losing so many lives on the same level. It's very hard to received nearly 1 billion score points. This is so frustrating, but the game is great!
  29. alexstunky
    May 25, 2018
    8
    Aun que sea el típico juego de Mario plataformero, hay que aplaudir que nos sigue divirtiendo, pero lo que si me encanto son sus nuevos modos de juego, nada más que agregar, muy recomendado, divertido y sin duda le dedicaras su tiempo para completar el juego hasta el 100%.
    Gracias Nintendo.
  30. clay3232
    Oct 31, 2017
    8
    A solid game, but nothing you haven't seen or done before in this series. Super Mario Maker really went on to prove how simple it was for Nintendo when making these titles.
  31. vvmax
    Jun 1, 2018
    8
    Big improvement over the DS original. Amazing 2D Mario Game for Wii U. There are lots of new power ups, enemies and this is an amazing game
  32. Sausage22
    Nov 7, 2017
    8
    Best entry in NSMB series, a lot of challenging levels to play. Looks and sounds identical to wii game, preety sad thing. Co-op again is amazing, but only with people that have determination to play it with you.
  33. Yushy
    Mar 16, 2018
    8
    - 8.0 -

    Well, probabilmente uno dei giochi più insignificanti e dimenticati, insieme a Super Mario Bros: 2, anche se onestamente l'ho preferito ad esso ed a Super Mario Bros Wii, i livelli sono decisamente migliori e più enjoinabily, ma oltre questo non è altro che un classico super mario.
  34. SonicSpeedo92
    Jul 12, 2018
    8
    At this point, the series has overstayed its welcome by reusing features from the other New Super Mario Bros. games and downgrading them. But NSMBU is a solid game nonetheless. The levels are quite fun, even though they add nothing new to the table. The new power-up, the Super Acorn, is so fun to use. My biggest problem is that once you play the levels a few times, you won't feel likeAt this point, the series has overstayed its welcome by reusing features from the other New Super Mario Bros. games and downgrading them. But NSMBU is a solid game nonetheless. The levels are quite fun, even though they add nothing new to the table. The new power-up, the Super Acorn, is so fun to use. My biggest problem is that once you play the levels a few times, you won't feel like going back to them. But go ahead and purchase it if you like 2D Mario.… Expand
  35. SpagettiGamer
    Jan 21, 2019
    8
    Let me just say, this game is a blast and a half. I haven’t beaten the game in a while, but I played it again today and just wanted to write a positive review on it.

    I really like the level design a lot. Complain all you want about it being too linear, but it’s a 2D platformer. There’s not really a way to make it NOT linear. Platforming is what Mario is all about, and these levels make    Let me just say, this game is a blast and a half. I haven’t beaten the game in a while, but I played it again today and just wanted to write a positive review on it.

    I really like the level design a lot. Complain all you want about it being too linear, but it’s a 2D platformer. There’s not really a way to make it NOT linear. Platforming is what Mario is all about, and these levels make the platforming the most fun I’ve played in a long time. The levels are crafted in a way that makes it not too easy, but not frustratingly difficult either. The Star Coins are all hiding or require skilled jumps to reach. The water levels are Hitler’s favorite.

    The multiplayer is so much fun in this game. You can work cooperatively with your friends to complete levels easier or make it five times harder by fighting your friends all the way to the finish to see who can finish the game with the most lives. It’s just such a blast to play this game with your friends.

    The brand new HD graphics are absolutely splendid. 2D Mario has never looked this good before. Some of the levels just look so amazing. The first underground level with the crystal moving blocks just couldn’t have possibly looked any better, the water levels that aren’t actually underwater are some of the most beautiful Mario levels I’ve ever seen, that one level that’s a painting, this list goes on and on. Sure it’s nothing in comparison to Mario Kart 8, but is great nonetheless.

    Mario’s controls could use some improving, but are still excellent. The New Super Mario games made the controls feel exactly how you would expect the godsend that are Mario’s 3D to feel in 2D. The triple jump is so nice to land trying to get that flagpole 1-UP and I can barely even remember 2D Mario without the ground pound. When using a Wii Remote I don’t have to hit all the buttons on the controller if I forgot a button because everything just makes sense. I love moving around in this game.

    There aren’t many new power ups, but the power ups we do have are some pretty great stuff. In Super Mario Galaxy they absolutely butchered the Fire Flower making it a timed power up, so I’m glad to say that it’s back in action, killing Koopas better than ever. The Ice Flower is a great alternative that doesn’t instantly kill the enemy, but can kill those pesky Dry Bones you might be having trouble with. The brand new Acorn power up gives you the ability to transform into Flying Squirrel Mario. It gives you the ability to glide and do a huge second jump. Oh yeah, it can also cling to walls for a short period of time. There’s also the penguin power up, which is just the Ice Flower but you can slide on your stomach.

    The story is nothing much, as the tradition goes with Mario games, but it has more depth than the rest of the 2D Mario games. Once again Bowser kidnaps Princess Peach, but this time Bowser takes over Peach’s Castle and sends Mario flying all the way to Peach’s Castle to save her. Over time Kamek enshrouds the castle with fog, and it is cover in a tornado of fog by the time you get there. When you go into the fog the water surrounding the castle is now lava and the music is a remixed Peach’s Castle Theme from Mario 64 which is a nice touch. The bosses are the Koopalings once again and are set up in the same order as Super Mario Bros 3, Boom Boom and all. It even plays a remix of the Fortress Battle Theme from Mario 3.

    I know what you’re thinking. “If you liked the game so much, why did you give it an 8 instead of a 10?” Well, there are still things I dislike about it. World 1 is just full of boring grass levels that look the same, it has the same style as the last three 2D Marios (albeit with HD graphics this time), it has the same bubbly music, a similar lackluster story, and only brought a small amount of new content from the Wii Mario. I really wish this wasn’t the case because I like this game so much, but sadly, it was. This game could’ve improved so much if it had some new style, but otherwise it’s still a great game and you should definitely give it a shot if you enjoy 2D platformers.    … Expand
  36. CB186
    Jan 5, 2020
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. New Super Mario Bros. U is a good game. While it feels incredibly similar to the Wii version, the new additions to this game are very good at changing the gameplay.

    The Super Acorn has got to be one of the best power ups we have seen in 2D Mario and with the Propeller Mushroom and Penguin Suit also returning, the selection of power-ups here is very good. While the story is basically non-existent, Bowser kidnapped Peach, get her back. The final boss takes place in Peach's Castle as Bowser takes over the castle, transforming it into one more suitable for him. This is a nice change from the standard plan of the Koopa King but still pretty generic. However, the final boss itself is something special. I won't spoil it but it is one of the best final bosses in 2D Mario to date.

    However, other bosses are truly forgettable. The Koopalings are back from New Super Mario Bros. Wii and aside from in World 7 (Ludwig) none of them really put up a good fight. The level design is also pretty weak. The levels are good but very samey. Multiple levels feel the same.

    Overall, this is a great addition to the Mario franchise but not the go to experience on the Wii U.    … Expand
  37. ChesterField
    May 1, 2020
    8
    El clásico for wii U. An old school super mario. Fun and addictive. Essential.
  38. Nico49
    Jun 13, 2020
    8
    The game is good and entertainment. The Coin Hunt-Mode is very funny. I like the game.
  39. hector_bcn98
    Oct 31, 2022
    8
    Muy bueno para jugar en solitario, notable para cooperativo local, a cuatro mandos haciendo el burro.
  40. Owen76287
    Feb 10, 2021
    8
    This game is a flawless 2D platformer. The length difficulty and content are perfect. People only hate this game because it's not original, and I completely agree with that statement. The game was released at a time when a Mario game came every year, and it doesn't help that it was released on the Wii U. It s an amazing experience, but for many it just came out at the wrong time and place.This game is a flawless 2D platformer. The length difficulty and content are perfect. People only hate this game because it's not original, and I completely agree with that statement. The game was released at a time when a Mario game came every year, and it doesn't help that it was released on the Wii U. It s an amazing experience, but for many it just came out at the wrong time and place. If you want to play the game than I encourage you to do so, but not for $60, find a discounted Wii U version rather than the Switch port.… Expand
  41. grimreapersims
    Jan 6, 2022
    8
    ....................................................................................................................................................................................................blank
  42. Ebip
    Jun 13, 2022
    8
    A Good 2D Mario.Unpopular opinion but this Is the best NSMB game.the world Is connected like SMW the New Power up Is great and the level design Is Golden.The bosses are generic and the music Is catchy but Not the best thing in the Franchise.The Challenges are fun
  43. Eny2505
    Apr 23, 2023
    8
    EVEN MORE of the same stuff. We reached a point where its getting really boring now. It is still really fun to play but its so repetitive. Bonus points for multiplayer options and challenge mode. Underwhelming launch title for the Wii U.
  44. 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
  45. 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
  46. 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
  47. 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.
  48. 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
  49. 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
  50. 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
  51. 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.
  52. 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
  53. 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.
  54. 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
  55. 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
  56. 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
  57. 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.
  58. 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
  59. 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.
  60. 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.
  61. 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
  62. 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.
  63. 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
  64. 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
  65. 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.
  66. 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.
  67. 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
  68. 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
  69. 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.
  70. FireBroFilms
    Aug 15, 2022
    7
    ‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎
  71. 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
  72. 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
  73. 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.
  74. 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
  75. 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
  76. 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
  77. 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
  78. 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.
  79. 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.
  80. 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.
  81. 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.
  82. 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.
  83. 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
  84. 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
  85. 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
  86. 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
  87. 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.
  88. 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
  89. 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
  90. 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.
  91. 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
  92. 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
  93. 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
  94. dsotm629
    Nov 26, 2012
    4
    This game could be worse, but not much worse. This is a Mario Bros. game, which is such a popular franchise because of their addictive game play stemming from tight controls, without tight control. Want to run, for example? Then you better have half the screen in front of you before you start. I don't know if this is because of the game itself or because of the game pad, but it makes theThis game could be worse, but not much worse. This is a Mario Bros. game, which is such a popular franchise because of their addictive game play stemming from tight controls, without tight control. Want to run, for example? Then you better have half the screen in front of you before you start. I don't know if this is because of the game itself or because of the game pad, but it makes the game nearly unplayable. The bottom line is that I would only recommend this game for kids. Kids young enough to not know the difference between good and bad games, because that's who this game was made for. If you really want to play a newer Mario game do yourself a favor and get Super Mario 3D Land for the 3DS instead.… Expand
  95. CoolShoes
    Jan 26, 2013
    4
    Super Mario Games have always brought joy, fun and laughter, and the New Super Mario Bros U game was no exception. Adding HD graphics and artistic detailed levels it truly will amaze. NSMBU is also one of the few launch titles that fully integrate Miiverse, a social community specially created for the Wii U, and it integrates it beautifully! Although the Super Mario games have not changedSuper Mario Games have always brought joy, fun and laughter, and the New Super Mario Bros U game was no exception. Adding HD graphics and artistic detailed levels it truly will amaze. NSMBU is also one of the few launch titles that fully integrate Miiverse, a social community specially created for the Wii U, and it integrates it beautifully! Although the Super Mario games have not changed for the past few decades not really adding the 'new,' it will truly still bring in a good laugh for hardcore and casual gamers alike.… Expand
  96. Platinumeta
    Feb 13, 2015
    4
    What can be said? What can really be said about this game? Well, for one thing, it really shows that Nintendo don't know what the word "new" means for a start, but let's get into detail.

    Sadly, there's no reason to have any high expectations for this game as it's basically New Super Mario Bros Wii only slightly different. If anything, t's mostly just an expansion pack sold as an actual    What can be said? What can really be said about this game? Well, for one thing, it really shows that Nintendo don't know what the word "new" means for a start, but let's get into detail.

    Sadly, there's no reason to have any high expectations for this game as it's basically New Super Mario Bros Wii only slightly different. If anything, t's mostly just an expansion pack sold as an actual game. New Super Mario Bros. U holds the series back to its roots to create another so-so game that feels rehashed due to not including enough content.

    With rehashes, the game follows such trends by copy pasting graphics, gameplay, music, power-ups and more. It's not that the game is generally bad or unenjoyable, it's just not very much worthwhile. More or less a come and go game.

    Many models are reused which is a darn shame as the Wii U is truly capable of some great visuals, proven by its library of stunning visual masterpieces. This game falls short in that aspect as it pulls over from its Wii counterpart and lacks much appeal, save for some cool backgrounds and an overworld. But past that? Jack all.

    Likewise with the visuals and pretty much else with this game, the gameplay has little to impress or keep you interested. It follows the same control functions as it did previously, which, I wouldn't have minded so much if not for how so few new power-ups appeared and many seemed to disappear. The Propeller and Penguin suits are almost nowhere to be found here, instead the game focuses on a new Squirrel power -up that lets you glide, fall slowly and, for whatever reason lets you stick to a wall for a while that has little no effect on the gameplay. It's standard stuff, nothing amazing, not much impressive and quite predictable. "If it ain't broke don't fix it" you might say? Well guess what? I'm not asking it to be fixed, I'm asking for substance and a game that is actually "new" in more than just one small new obligatory power-up. There's no sense of evolution, no feel of improvement or progression. It's just stuck in the past. The reason we liked Mario then was because it was new then, it was trying new ideas, this one doesn't break boundaries when it comes to beating a dead horse.

    Level designs are the only redeeming quality about the gameplay, while no new enemies appear in particular, the levels are fair enough and deserve some praise. However, boss fights do tend to drag after a while. The Koopalings returning in NSMBW was cool and they all had different gimmicks to them which complimented their personalities. This game takes an even safer route with its same enemy, different dungeon tactic of adding a smaller twist every so often that equates to giving nearly no cares.

    Speaking of which, the music is also so-so and rehashed like always. The music never bothered me but it did manage to bore me after a while, the only time I really cared about the music was because it was there. Why should I care, though? Why should I be immersed on an adventure through the mushroom kingdom to save a princess (AGAIN) from a giant turtle when all I can hear from my music is just some simple carefree stuff? I'm not asking for epic choirs, I'm, again, asking for significance, asking for satisfaction. There's no sense of adventure, just a casual, passive stroll without a care in the world.

    Like I mentioned, the story also remains the same. Bowser kidnaps princess. Mario must save princess. Princess is saved. (Cake.) When it comes to story in these games I wouldn't ask for much to be improved upon just a tad that could make it seem more adventure like, Super Mario 3D Land managed to at least do this with some mild cutscenes (even for how needless they were) they were slightly substantial at least. Here? Nothing. Though, I guess it could also be seen as good that the story doesn't interrupt the gameplay. So I'll give it that.

    But, all in all. New Super Mario Bros. U was a petty launch title. A quick rehash to grab your money from Nintendo. Oh, how the mighty have fallen. From one of the greatest gaming icons to a cheap cash cow. Well done, Nintendo. Well done. Game design is simple and playable, but nothing we haven't already seen. Looking for something new? Don't let the name fool you, or you'll just be disappointed.    … Expand
  97. Meta1234
    Apr 20, 2018
    4
    Same concept of a game for the trillionth time ever. Fun to play but had it not been for the Nintendo logo they would certainly call it overpriced. 50€ was too much. And no original story too.
  98. B-Bog
    Aug 25, 2021
    4
    How a game as generic, lackluster, and generally unremarkable and boring as this one can obtain a metascore of 84 and a user score of 8.0 is totally beyond me. If you instructed an AI to make a 2D Mario game, this is probably what it would come up with. There are absolutely no surprises to be had here, no new ideas. In fact, the gap in imagination and creativity between the 3D and modernHow a game as generic, lackluster, and generally unremarkable and boring as this one can obtain a metascore of 84 and a user score of 8.0 is totally beyond me. If you instructed an AI to make a 2D Mario game, this is probably what it would come up with. There are absolutely no surprises to be had here, no new ideas. In fact, the gap in imagination and creativity between the 3D and modern 2D Mario games is close to unfathomable.

    The graphics are sub-par even for the Wii U, the music is the most generic drivel imaginable (the Wii U eShop Theme is 10 times better than any song in this game lol), and the level design is incredibly unimaginative. Add to that the typical 2D Mario problems of incredibly slippery movement and inconsequential collectibles and I found very little incentive to keep playing and even finish this game.    … Expand
  99. SirSoil
    Feb 28, 2020
    4
    New Super Mario Bros U is an attempt to just sell another Mario platformer for the Wii U it works but, it’s completely boring. The graphics look nice with cool characters to chose from. But the levels and platforming it self is boring and uninspired, the levels sometimes feel the same the bosses are okay nothing interesting really. Even the additional modes are just whatever missions thatNew Super Mario Bros U is an attempt to just sell another Mario platformer for the Wii U it works but, it’s completely boring. The graphics look nice with cool characters to chose from. But the levels and platforming it self is boring and uninspired, the levels sometimes feel the same the bosses are okay nothing interesting really. Even the additional modes are just whatever missions that just give you some random star as reward that doesn’t do **** This game is just a medicore Mario platform with no inspiration and no charm it’s boring repetitive and I bet even Mario fans wanna forget it even existed. (Medicore 2/5) Play It If Your A Fan Of The Series… Expand
  100. Theperson
    Nov 3, 2022
    4
    Luigi's a **** in this game and that makes me have jaundice. Btw have you ever played gex
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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

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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.
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  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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