Do people still play Mario Maker 2? Absolutely!
As a long-time fan who has played every Mario platformer since the original Super Mario Bros., I can definitively say that Super Mario Maker 2 remains a must-play Mario experience. Even years after launch, this creation tool and level showcase continues to have an active community engaged in playing, watching, creating and sharing Mario courses.
When Nintendo ended online course uploads in March 2021, some assumed interest in the game would wane. But with over 10 million player-created levels uploaded even before uploads halted, there‘s no danger of running out of content anytime soon!
In fact, the endless variety of levels means Super Mario Maker 2 almost feels like a new Mario game every time you play. The types of courses possible include automatic levels that play themselves, precision-platforming challenges, complex puzzles, musical stages, and pretty much anything you can imagine. Top creators constantly push the boundaries of what‘s possible in the editor.
As someone who has created dozens of courses and played thousands more, this boundless creative freedom is part of what keeps me returning to the game. There‘s also great value here – with millions of levels available in an ever-expanding online repository, you‘re getting practically infinite replayability for the base game‘s $40-60 price tag.
Multiplayer and influencers add longevity
On top of the endless content, multiplayer functionality and a thriving influencer scene ensure longevity. Playing user levels cooperatively or competitively with up to 4 people locally or online adds tremendous replayability.
Popular streamers like DGR, Ryukahr, GrandPooBear, and Panga frequently showcase incredible levels which exposes new audiences to what‘s possible in the game. Watching skilled players conquer ultra-challenging courses drives engagement through all the entertaining Mario Maker content online.
Sales and level records showcase popularity
Looking at the numbers, it‘s clear Super Mario Maker 2 has an active, growing userbase. The original Super Mario Maker sold over 4 million copies on Wii U, a console with just 13.56 million lifetime sales. The sequel has already surpassed 5 million copies sold despite releasing on a console with over 114 million sold!
| Game | All-Time Sales | Max Online Levels |
|---|---|---|
| Super Mario Maker (Wii U) | 4.01 million | Over 7 million |
| Super Mario Maker 2 (Switch) | 5.04 million* | Over 10 million** |
* As of March 2022
** As of November 2022
These fantastic sales, coupled with the staggering number of levels uploaded, prove players are sticking with Super Mario Maker 2. While online uploads may have ended, this vast library of existing courses could take years or decades to fully play through!
Speculation builds hype for a potential Mario Maker 3
Based on various leaks, fans speculate the next entry in the Maker series could arrive as early as 2023. Already, discussions rage about what new elements might get added to a Mario Maker 3 like slopes, water/lava placement, new themes, extra items, more enemies, 4 player co-op in levels, and other exciting features. While not confirmed, the anticipation certainly keeps interest high!
Conclusion
With multiplayer, nearly infinite content, constant updates from streamers, and a thriving creative community, Super Mario Maker 2 has incredible long-term viability. Even years after launch, it remains a must-own title for Switch owners. If you love platformers, level creators, or Mario, dive into this endlessly playable masterpiece today!