Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury

Description

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury retains the core gameplay of the original Super Mario 3D World (2013, Wii U) which combines traditional 2D platforming with 3D exploration. Players control Mario, Luigi, Peach, and Toad as they embark on a colorful adventure to rescue the Sprixie Princesses from the clutches of Bowser. It is the sequel to Super Mario 3D Land.

The game features a variety of levels with different themes and challenges, including traditional platforming levels, puzzle-focused stages, and boss battles. Each character has unique abilities, such as Mario’s balanced skills, Luigi’s high jumps, Peach’s floaty jumps, and Toad’s speed. Players can choose to tackle the levels cooperatively with up to four players or play solo. Power-ups such as the Super Bell enable climbing and wall-scaling, expanding verticality and movement options. The visual design employs a clean, high-colour aesthetic with dynamic camera shifts to frame action and reveal secrets. The music alternates between upbeat orchestral themes and rhythmic motifs tied to stage hazards, reinforcing tempo and tone.

In addition to the original Super Mario 3D World content, the game introduces the Bowser’s Fury expansion. Bowser’s Fury is an open-world sandbox-style adventure set in a new area called Lake Lapcat. Players team up with Bowser Jr. as they work to stop the enraged and monstrous Bowser, who is causing havoc in the region. The expansion offers a new experience with a larger interconnected world and a more dynamic and intense encounter with Bowser.

The game was well received, despite being predominantly a port of an old game. The new Bowser’s Fury although short, was impressive and made the most of the Switch’s hardware. Both entries were later patched for Switch 2 support, providing further minor enhancements.