Super Mario 3D World is primarily played on the Wii U console.
The Original Platform: Wii U
Released in 2013, Super Mario 3D World was developed and published by Nintendo specifically for its Wii U home console. This title marked a significant entry in the Super Mario series, offering players a unique blend of open-world exploration and linear platforming, a signature of 3D Mario games. The game leveraged the distinctive features of the Wii U GamePad, though it could also be played with other compatible controllers.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Platform | Wii U |
| Release Year | 2013 |
| Developer | Nintendo |
| Publisher | Nintendo |
| Genre | Platform Game |
| Series Context | The sixth original 3D platform game in the Super Mario series and a direct sequel to Super Mario 3D Land, which was released on the Nintendo 3DS in 2011. |
| Key Innovation | Introduced the ability for multiple players (up to four) to navigate 3D levels simultaneously, a first for a 3D Mario game. It also debuted the popular Cat Mario power-up. |
Evolution and Availability
While the Wii U was its original home, Super Mario 3D World later received an enhanced re-release. In 2021, the game, bundled with the new expansion Bowser's Fury, was released for the Nintendo Switch. This made the beloved title accessible to a much broader audience on Nintendo's then-current hybrid console, adding new features and online multiplayer capabilities.
Key Features of the Original Wii U Release
- Multiplayer Co-op: Up to four players could play together, choosing from Mario, Luigi, Peach, Toad, and later Rosalina.
- Wii U GamePad Integration: Levels sometimes utilized the GamePad's touchscreen for interacting with elements like hidden blocks or blowing on the microphone to reveal secrets.
- Visuals: The game showcased vibrant, high-definition graphics, a step up from previous Mario titles on the Wii or 3DS.
For fans of platforming games, Super Mario 3D World on the Wii U offered a fresh and engaging experience that built upon the legacy of its predecessors while introducing new mechanics and a cooperative multiplayer focus.
