Super Mario Bros. Wonder Review

Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a delightful 2D platformer that brings a fresh take on the iconic series. This game oozes wonder and joy with its vibrant visuals and engaging gameplay.

Right from the start, Super Mario Bros. Wonder captivates players with its colorful and diverse palette, featuring vivid blues, reds, greens, and yellows. It’s a visual treat, feeling like a proper sequel to Super Mario World, but with a modern touch.

One of the standout features of the game is its attention to detail in animations. From Mario reaching back for his hat when dashing into pipes to the humorous expressions of critters and Goombas, every frame is filled with charm. Even the unique transformations, like Elephant Mario and Drill Mario, add a fresh layer of excitement to the gameplay.

The Flower Kingdom, the game’s setting, proves to be a refreshing change from the familiar Mushroom Kingdom. It introduces a host of new and unique enemies that Mario must conquer. While the storyline is typically thin in Mario games, it doesn’t overshadow the variety of levels and experiences the Flower Kingdom has to offer.

What sets Super Mario Bros. Wonder apart are the Wonder Effects that transform levels into unpredictable and grin-inducing experiences. From turning Mario into a rolling spiky ball to shifting the camera to a top-down perspective, these effects keep the gameplay fresh and exciting. They add a layer of anticipation, making players eager to discover the next surprise.

The game offers both local and online multiplayer options. While local co-op remains a preferred choice, the online component is seamlessly integrated and provides a fun distraction from the main platforming action. Nintendo has made multiplayer a more organic part of the experience, enhancing the cooperative play.

And then there’s Elephant Mario, a dominant and hilarious addition to the game. His animations and abilities bring a unique twist to the gameplay, making him an absolute blast to control. Drill Mario, another newcomer, offers new ways to explore levels by burrowing into the ground or ceiling.


Super Mario Bros. Wonder introduces Badges, providing players with options to customize their gameplay. These unlockable abilities, whether active or passive, let you tailor your experience to your preferred playstyle. They add an extra layer of strategy and replayability.

While the game radiates joy, it may not reach the same heights as the last mainline 3D Mario masterpiece, Super Mario Odyssey. The music, while not bad, is somewhat forgettable, and the game lacks the same level of challenge for seasoned players. However, it remains a fantastic addition to the Mario series and caters to a wide range of players.

In summary, Super Mario Bros. Wonder sets a new standard for 2D Mario platformers. It offers a colorful and joyful experience with unpredictable Wonder Effects that keep players engaged. The charming animations and unique transformations, like Elephant Mario, make it a must-play for any Mario fan. While it may not surpass its predecessor in terms of challenge, it embodies the spirit of Super Mario World for a new generation.