Experience the return of a legendary era with New Super Mario Bros. Wii, the title that brought 2D side-scrolling action back to home consoles for the first time in nearly two decades. Released in November 2009, this vibrant platformer captures the magic of the 8-bit and 16-bit classics like Super Mario Bros. and Super Mario World while introducing innovative mechanics specifically designed for the Wii hardware. Whether you are navigating through bright, colorful worlds alone or engaging in chaotic local multiplayer, the game offers a polished, infectious experience that appeals to both nostalgic veterans and newcomers alike.
Innovative Gameplay and Multiplayer Chaos
While the core gameplay relies on the familiar "run and jump" mechanics that made the franchise famous, New Super Mario Bros. Wii introduces a revolutionary four-player local multiplayer system. This mode allows up to four players to participate in the same level simultaneously, creating a unique dynamic of both cooperation and competition. Players can work together to navigate obstacles, or they can engage in friendly rivalry—such as picking up teammates to save them from danger or tossing them directly into hazards. In the specialized "coin battle" multiplayer mode, players are even ranked at the end of each stage based on the number of coins collected.
The gameplay is further enhanced by the integration of the Wii Remote™'s motion controls. Players can use contextual gestures to interact with the world, such as shaking the controller to activate the Propeller Suit or thrusting the remote at the peak of a jump for a "jump pause." Additionally, certain environmental elements, like seesaws, can be tilted by players using motion abilities, providing opportunities to help allies reach higher platforms—or intentionally mess with opponents.
New Power-Ups and Character Abilities
The Mushroom Kingdom is filled with fresh tools to help you overcome Bowser's minions. New power-ups provide entirely different traversal options:
- Penguin Suit: Grants Mario the ability to walk on slippery ice without sliding and provides spectacular swimming capabilities underwater.
- Ice Flower: The counterpart to the Fire Flower, allowing players to freeze enemies in place and transform them into usable platforms or projectiles.
- Propeller Suit: Enables players to shoot high into the sky with a simple shake of the Wii Remote.
- Yoshi: Players can ride various Yoshi characters, using their long tongues to swallow enemies, items, and even balls of fire.
A Familiar World with Fresh Faces
The setting remains rooted in the beloved Mushroom Kingdom, featuring beautifully designed, tightly-constructed levels that range from lush greenery to misty, obscured landscapes. While the story follows a classic Mario narrative, the depth lies in the level design and the return of iconic elements like the Koopalings. Players can choose from several playable characters, including Mario, Luigi, and two Toads, ensuring a varied experience as you navigate through challenging stages filled with dancing Koopas and massive, screen-filling bosses.
Who is this game for?
New Super Mario Bros. Wii is an essential title for anyone who enjoys high-quality platforming. It is particularly well-suited for:
- Families and Friends: The simultaneous four-player mode makes it a premier choice for local social gaming.
- Platforming Veterans: While accessible to beginners, the game features "deliciously challenging" levels that test even the most seasoned players.
- Nostalgic Gamers: Those looking to rediscover the 2D side-scrolling formula with modern technical refinements and interactive physics.
Available on the Wii (and via backward compatibility on Wii U), this title remains a stellar achievement in the Super Mario lineage, blending classic charm with much-needed innovation.
