New Super Mario Bros. U is a dynamic side-scrolling platformer and adventure title developed for the Nintendo Wii U. Released in November 2012, this installment returns to the franchise's 2D roots while leveraging the unique capabilities of the Wii U GamePad to revolutionize the multiplayer experience. Players are invited to step back into the iconic Mushroom Kingdom, exploring vibrant worlds, discovering new power-ups, and engaging with friends and family in a cooperative journey. The game supports Mii integration, allowing players to customize their avatars alongside classic characters like Mario, Luigi, and Toad.

Story and Setting

The narrative of New Super Mario Bros. U kicks off during a grand celebration for Princess Peach. King Bowser crashes the festivities, capturing the princess and physically tossing Mario, Luigi, Toad, and Toadette out of the castle. The adventure begins with the heroes scattered across the kingdom, tasked with making their way back to the castle to rescue Peach and defeat Bowser. The game features a diverse array of levels set within the Mushroom Kingdom, ranging from lush, green landscapes to treacherous fortresses. The visual design employs a rounded aesthetic that minimizes texture use, keeping load times low while maintaining a bright, engaging atmosphere suitable for all ages.

Gameplay Mechanics and Power-ups

At its core, New Super Mario Bros. U delivers precise platforming action centered on running, jumping, and stomping enemies. The gameplay rewards skillful traversal and exploration, with tight controls that allow for quick reactions to platforming hazards. The title introduces several transformative power-ups that alter movement and strategy. Flying Squirrel Mario enables players to swoop through the air and cling to walls, adding verticality to exploration. Another key addition is Balloon Baby Yoshi, which allows characters to gently float by hanging onto the dinosaur. The game also incorporates the triple jump and a spin jump mechanic, providing depth to combat and navigation. Reviewers have praised the platforming for feeling like a spiritual successor to Super Mario World, offering a perfect balance of accessibility and challenge.

New Super Mario Bros. U Multiplayer and Wii U Features

A defining feature of New Super Mario Bros. U is its extensive multiplayer support. Up to five players can join the fun simultaneously, with up to four using Wii Remote controllers and one player utilizing the Wii U GamePad. This split provides a unique dynamic where the GamePad player can interact with the game world in ways others cannot. The GamePad allows the fifth player to create Boost Blocks out of thin air to assist navigation or distract onscreen enemies. This functionality introduces Boost Mode, a cooperative mechanic where the GamePad player manipulates objects and enemies in real time to help the group discover the fastest route through stages.

  • Boost Rush: Two to five players work together to clear numerous courses in the fastest time possible. The screen auto-scrolls, forcing movement, and speeds up as coins are collected. Players can watch replays of other runs to strategize for future attempts.
  • Challenge Mode: A collection of single-player and multiplayer challenges that incorporate familiar Super Mario gameplay concepts in a competitive format. This mode offers high replay value as players strive for high scores and unlock new challenges.
  • Boost Mode Challenges: Specific challenges designed to help players practice the teamwork and coordination necessary for effective Boost Mode gameplay.

Platform Availability and Target Audience

New Super Mario Bros. U is available on the Wii U platform. The game appeals to a broad audience, including families seeking couch co-op entertainment and long-time fans of the 2D Mario series. Its accessible controls combined with challenging level design make it suitable for players of varying skill levels. The integration of Mii characters and diverse game modes ensures that the experience caters to both casual players enjoying the story mode and competitive gamers tackling the challenge modes.