The WhatsNext verdict
Super Mario 3D World is an essential pick for players who want immaculate platforming and the best kind of couch multiplayer chaos. It is especially brilliant with friends, but its tightly linear structure may disappoint explorers seeking a sprawling 3D adventure.
What it does best
Platforming that turns precision into pure delight
A masterclass in inventive level design
The rare 3D platformer that makes four-player chaos work
Collecting gives mastery a satisfying second campaign
What might put you off
Multiplayer can become messy rather than magical
It is a linear Mario game, not an exploratory one
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The setup
What you are walking into
Super Mario 3D World is a 3D platformer action game for the Wii U, and a follow-up of the Nintendo 3DS installment Super Mario 3D Land. The game builds upon the previous installment, following a similar 3D level-design convention inspired from the 2D platformer titles where players must navigate through a linear-designed level within a time limit to reach a level's Goal Pole. One key aspect introduced in this title is the simultaneous multiplayer: while not the first game in the series to do so, it is the first 3D title in the Mario series to incorporate up to four players cooperating with each other to reach the goal. Players can select their character from a pool of playable characters prior to starting the game, and each of these characters have their own unique playstyle that gives them advantages and disadvantages over other characters. The game makes use of several Wii U exclusive features, such as tapping blocks with the touch screen on the GamePad and blowing into the mic to reveal hidden items and blow away enemies. Various new power-ups are introduced in this title, with the trademark suit being the Cat power-up, which enables characters to perform a melee attack, climb up walls, and leap while midair, as well as the game generally having a cat-based theme.
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