Super Mario Bros Wonder – Nintendo Switch (2023)
Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a vibrant 2D side-scrolling platformer for the Nintendo Switch that injects fresh creativity into the classic Mario formula. The story sees Mario and his friends, including Luigi, Peach, Daisy, and various Toads and Yoshis, visiting the neighboring Flower Kingdom. Their trip is cut short when Bowser, using the power of the land’s Wonder Flowers, merges with Prince Florian’s castle, transforming into a flying fortress and imprisoning the kingdom’s citizens. The heroes must then traverse various worlds, collecting Wonder Seeds to progress and ultimately stop Bowser’s grand plan.
Gameplay is centred around traditional Mario platforming, but with a significant twist: the “Wonder Flowers.” Upon collecting these, the levels undergo bizarre and unpredictable transformations, ranging from pipes coming to life and enemies singing, to changes in gravity, character appearances (like Elephant Mario), and even entire level layouts shifting dramatically. This constant novelty keeps players on their toes, offering surprising and often hilarious moments. New power-ups like the Elephant Fruit, Bubble Flower, and Drill Mushroom add further variety, while a badge system allows players to equip unique abilities for each level, offering strategic choices and catering to different playstyles. The game also features local co-op for up to four players and subtle online integration where players can see silhouettes of others, leave helpful standees for revivals, and even engage in friendly races.
Super Mario Bros. Wonder has been met with widespread critical acclaim, earning “universal acclaim” on Metacritic. Critics praised its innovative level design, the constant stream of surprises brought by the Wonder Flowers, its vibrant art style, and its ability to reinvent the 2D Mario experience while staying true to its roots. Many lauded it as the best 2D Mario game since Super Mario World, highlighting its joyful and imaginative nature. The game was also a commercial success, becoming the fastest-selling Super Mario game and receiving nominations for several prestigious awards, including Game of the Year.
  | Complete |
 | 2204 |
 | £24 |