Probably the best 2D Mario game since Yoshi’s Island. Granted, the bar was in hell because “depressing” wouldn’t even begin to describe the state 2D Mario was in but still, I give props when props are due and Super Mario Bros. Wonder manages to breathe new life into a series that has been absolutely stale since 1995.
The amount of creativity on display here is impressive. Not all wonder flower gimmicks were created equal (I’d even argue the game peaks on the second level in that regard) but it was always exciting to see just what would happen when you touched one even if the result was kinda disappointing. The badge system is also pretty interesting because most of the badges are kinda useless but I don’t think I can play another 2D Mario without the parachute cap and the grappling vine badges. They completely change the pacing of the levels for the better.
The music is, sadly, quite forgettable. I can’t really remember any of the tracks aside from a couple. I also found the visuals to be a bit eh. The new character models look great and a lot of the backgrounds are full of life but the game still kinda just looks like the New Super Mario Bros. games with a slightly prettier coat of paint on it. I also find it puzzling that a game this jam-packed with creativity still manages to have terrible boss battles.
Super Mario Bros. Wonder is no Tropical Freeze or Rayman Legends. Quite frankly, it’s not even DKC Returns or Rayman Origins. 2D Mario is still way behind, but Wonder has put it back on the right track. I wouldn’t say I’m excited for the future of 2D Mario just yet, but I’m at least hopeful about it now.
The amount of creativity on display here is impressive. Not all wonder flower gimmicks were created equal (I’d even argue the game peaks on the second level in that regard) but it was always exciting to see just what would happen when you touched one even if the result was kinda disappointing. The badge system is also pretty interesting because most of the badges are kinda useless but I don’t think I can play another 2D Mario without the parachute cap and the grappling vine badges. They completely change the pacing of the levels for the better.
The music is, sadly, quite forgettable. I can’t really remember any of the tracks aside from a couple. I also found the visuals to be a bit eh. The new character models look great and a lot of the backgrounds are full of life but the game still kinda just looks like the New Super Mario Bros. games with a slightly prettier coat of paint on it. I also find it puzzling that a game this jam-packed with creativity still manages to have terrible boss battles.
Super Mario Bros. Wonder is no Tropical Freeze or Rayman Legends. Quite frankly, it’s not even DKC Returns or Rayman Origins. 2D Mario is still way behind, but Wonder has put it back on the right track. I wouldn’t say I’m excited for the future of 2D Mario just yet, but I’m at least hopeful about it now.