There is a significant level of horizontal scrolling in Super Mario Bros. Wonder that unveils a remarkable flower with a ripple effect. This moment triggers a transition to a vertical composition as the protagonist activates the flower, leading to a unique gameplay experience. The level features enemies throwing soap bubbles to propel the hero upwards, allowing for collection of purple coins. The music also undergoes a transformation with a different composition and rhythm. At the peak of the level, a seed awaits collection, followed by a fireworks display to commemorate the achievement.
The interior of Super Mario Bros. Wonder presents a departure from the traditional 2D games that defined the franchise in the past. Unlike the New Super Mario Bros. series or the 3D installments like Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Odyssey, the game introduces new ideas in level design within a 2.5D format. Environmental transformations, diverse enemies, and support mechanics for the protagonists ensure a constant sense of novelty, despite the core gameplay revolving around jumping and traversing through both horizontal and vertical scrolling levels.
Multiplayer functionality in Super Mario Bros. Wonder accommodates up to 4 players concurrently, each with distinct characters and abilities. The online multiplayer option enhances the cooperative experience by introducing ghosts controlled by other players, fostering shared gameplay moments. Players can revive each other by interacting with ghosts, uncovering secrets, and collaborating to complete levels comprehensively. The multiplayer dimension in the game has been significantly strengthened by the online feature, providing a dynamic and engaging gameplay experience for players worldwide.
The game offers enhanced abilities through power insignias and marvelous flowers, allowing characters to adopt various forms and acquire unique skills. These power-ups can be shared among players in multiplayer mode, fostering teamwork and strategic gameplay. Power badges serve as enhancements that can be collected and utilized to overcome challenges more effectively. Certain badges are available for purchase or can be earned through gameplay, offering a range of enhancements to cater to players of different skill levels. Additionally, temporary forms acquired within specific levels provide cosmetic adjustments and unique abilities to navigate through challenges, adding an element of surprise and excitement to the gameplay experience.
The Narrative of Super Mario Bros. Wonder
While the Super Mario series games are not known for their strong narrative content, Super Mario Bros. Wonder focuses more on ideas and autonomous levels than on storytelling. The story is set in the flower kingdom, where Super Mario and his companions are invited for a visit. The villain Bowser and his minions take over the kingdom, and it is up to Super Mario to defeat them and restore peace.
The Gameplay Experience
Exploring the game fully can be a challenging task, with secret areas and collectibles scattered throughout each level. Players who aim to complete the game at 100% will face intricate challenges that test their skills. The game offers a mix of simplicity and difficulty, providing entertainment for both new and experienced players.
Visuals and Soundtrack
Super Mario Bros. Wonder features vibrant visuals and smooth animations, showcasing Nintendo’s expertise in creating a bug-free 2.5D platform game. The soundtrack includes new songs and melodies, enhancing the overall gaming experience. Despite the game’s visual appeal, players may wonder how it would look on hardware with better technical capabilities.
