“Super Mario Bros. Wonder,” the latest installment in the iconic Super Mario series, marks a triumphant return to traditional side-scrolling platforming on the Nintendo Switch. Developed and published by Nintendo, this game introduces players to the vibrant and whimsical Flower Kingdom, a new realm in the Mario universe. The game’s development, led by Shiro Mouri and produced by Takashi Tezuka, began in 2019 with a vision to reinvent the 2D Mario experience and explore a novel location.

The game’s release was met with resounding success, selling 4.3 million units in just two weeks and earning nominations for prestigious awards. “Super Mario Bros. Wonder” stands out for its dynamic level design, innovative gameplay mechanics, and the introduction of the magical Wonder Flower, which adds a layer of unpredictability and excitement to the classic Mario formula. The game’s appeal lies in its ability to blend nostalgia with fresh, creative elements, making it a hit among long-time fans and new players alike.

“Super Mario Bros. Wonder” on the Nintendo Switch is a testament to Nintendo’s enduring ability to innovate within its most beloved franchises. The game’s vibrant world, combined with its engaging gameplay and charming story, makes it a standout title in the Mario series. It’s a game that captures the essence of what makes Mario games so enjoyable while pushing the boundaries of creativity and fun.

Setting and Story

The Flower Kingdom, a new and enchanting addition to the Mario universe, serves as the backdrop for “Super Mario Bros. Wonder.” This kingdom is a tapestry of lush landscapes, vibrant flora, and whimsical characters, all brought to life with the game’s vivid art style. The Flower Kingdom’s unique setting is not just a visual delight but also plays a pivotal role in the game’s mechanics and story.

The narrative unfolds as Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Princess Daisy, and their friends are invited to witness the power of the Wonder Flower, a magical entity capable of warping reality. However, the ceremony is disrupted by Bowser, who seizes the Wonder Flower to merge with Prince Florian’s castle, transforming into a formidable fortress and imprisoning the kingdom’s inhabitants. The story takes players on a journey to collect Wonder Seeds, rescue the captured Poplins, and confront Bowser in his flying castle.

The plot of “Super Mario Bros. Wonder” is a classic Mario tale infused with new elements that keep the story fresh and engaging. The introduction of Prince Florian and the concept of the Wonder Flower adds depth to the Mario lore, providing players with a compelling reason to explore every corner of the Flower Kingdom. The game’s narrative is a delightful blend of adventure, humor, and the timeless battle between Mario and Bowser, making it a captivating experience from start to finish.

Gameplay and Mechanics

“Super Mario Bros. Wonder” excels in its gameplay, offering a perfect blend of classic Mario platforming with innovative new mechanics. Players can choose from eight characters, each with unique abilities, to navigate through the Flower Kingdom’s diverse levels. The game introduces dynamic level design, where interactive objects move or change behavior, adding a layer of complexity and excitement to the traditional platforming experience.

The game introduces several new power-ups, including a fruit that transforms the player into an elephant, a flower for creating enemy-trapping bubbles, and a mushroom with a drill hat for burrowing. These power-ups, along with the Wonder Flower’s reality-warping effects, provide players with novel ways to tackle challenges and enemies. The addition of badges, which grant various advantages, allows players to customize their gameplay experience further.

Multiplayer is a significant aspect of “Super Mario Bros. Wonder,” supporting local play for up to twelve players and online functionality. The game’s multiplayer mode is a chaotic and fun experience, allowing players to cooperate or compete in completing levels. The presence of other players as translucent versions adds an interesting layer to the gameplay, with mechanics like ghost revival adding to the cooperative aspect.

Graphics and Sound

The visual presentation of “Super Mario Bros. Wonder” is a standout feature, showcasing the Nintendo Switch’s capabilities. The game’s graphics are a vibrant explosion of color, bringing the Flower Kingdom to life with detailed environments and character animations. The art style remains true to the Mario series while introducing new elements that make the Flower Kingdom feel unique and alive.

The sound design complements the visuals perfectly, with a soundtrack that captures the whimsical and adventurous spirit of the game. The game’s audio is a delightful mix of classic Mario tunes and new compositions that enhance the overall experience. Sound effects, from the satisfying pop of collecting a Wonder Seed to the whimsical noises of the new power-ups, add to the game’s charm.

Final Thoughts

“Super Mario Bros. Wonder” on the Nintendo Switch is a remarkable addition to the Super Mario series. It successfully blends classic Mario gameplay with fresh, innovative elements, making it a must-play for fans and newcomers alike. The game’s engaging story, dynamic gameplay, stunning graphics, and delightful sound design come together to create an unforgettable experience.

The game’s success is a testament to Nintendo’s ability to continually reinvent its flagship series while staying true to its roots. “Super Mario Bros. Wonder” is not just a game; it’s a celebration of the Mario series’ legacy and a bold step forward in its evolution. It’s a game that will be remembered for its creativity, fun, and the joy it brings to players of all ages.

We prepared this review with a digital copy of the Super Mario Bros. Wonder for the Nintendo Switch version provided by Nintendo.