# Is Super Mario Deluxe like the original? A Nostalgic Platforming Experience Recreated for the Nintendo Switch - Canonical: https://33rdsquare.com/is-super-mario-deluxe-like-the-original-a-nostalgic-platforming-experience-recreated-for-the-nintendo-switch/ - Published: 2023-10-22 - Author: Nelson Ayers - Categories: [Business & Worth](https://33rdsquare.com/category/games/worth/) --- New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe faithfully brings the classic 2D Mario platforming gameplay of the Wii U original to the Nintendo Switch. If you missed out on this installment back in 2012, it offers a second chance to enjoy one of Mario‘s grandest and most content-packed adventures. While the Switch version adds new characters, modes, and visual tweaks, at its core it remains remarkably faithful to the Mario we know and love. Let‘s dive into the details on how New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe compares to the Wii U original. ## Still the Same Magical Mario Formula At its foundation, New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe retains the fantastic momentum-based side-scrolling platforming the series is known for. Running and jumping through the beautiful 2D levels feels just as precise and satisfying as ever. Long-time fans will instantly recognize the familiar gameplay flow: - Run and leap across platforms, stomping Goombas and Koopas along the way - Grab shiny coins and search for hidden areas and shortcuts - Collect power-ups like the Fire Flower and Ice Flower for new abilities - Ride trusty sidekicks like Yoshi to reach new heights - Defeat memorable bosses like the Koopalings to progress - Navigate ghost houses, volcanoes, forests, and castles across 9 worlds I‘m happy to report this classic formula has not changed one bit in the Deluxe version. Mario controls like a dream with his floaty jumps, quick acceleration, and smooth momentum. The physics and level design still “just work” in that perfect Nintendo way. Successfully traversing challenging levels with well-timed jumps and spins brings the same rush of adrenaline it always has. In terms of gameplay mechanics, controls, physics, and overall _feel_, New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe could pass for a remaster of the Wii U original. Nintendo kept the platforming action just as you remember it. ## Familiar Enemies and Levels Recaptured in HD Fans wondering if the levels or enemies got changed can rest easy. The Deluxe version includes all the same content from the base Wii U game: - **163 courses** across 9 worlds, including towering cliffs, haunted houses, volcanic fortresses, and more. I replayed many levels I recognized from the first time through. - All **seven Koopalings** return as villains along with Bowser Jr. and the infamous Bowser himself. Each have unique boss fights. - Goombas, Koopas, Piranha Plants, Cheep Cheeps, and all your other **favorite baddies** are back to stop Mario‘s journey. Nothing feels out of place. - Power-ups like the Ice Flower, Super Acorn, and Mini Mushroom return with the same abilities you know. Floating bubbles still provide assist power-ups. - Hidden **Star Coins** are in the same sneaky spots. Find 3 per level to unlock later worlds. Experts who have mastered each nook and cranny of the Wii U game can do so again with nearly identical level layouts and enemy patterns. However, the Nintendo Switch‘s improved 1080p resolution in docked mode does make this classic Mario journey look better than ever. Overall though, it’s clear the developers aimed to retain the original magic. ## Toadette and Nabbit Shake Up the Formula The two new playable characters, Toadette and Nabbit, are the largest gameplay change compared to the Wii U version. Here‘s how they impact the experience: - **Toadette** – Can use the new Super Crown item to transform into Peachette. As Peachette she gains extra abilities like a double jump and extended float ability. This makes her great for younger or less experienced players who need help making tricky jumps. - **Nabbit** – Cannot be harmed by enemies at all. However, he also cannot use any power-ups. This presents an exciting challenge for experts who want to traverse levels without the aid of power-ups. I found myself switching between characters frequently just to change up the gameplay style. It was refreshing to approach levels from new perspectives based on each character‘s strengths and weaknesses. However, Mario, Luigi, Yellow Toad, and Blue Toad all play identically to the Wii U game for a classic experience. ## Additional Modes Extend Replay Value On top of all the content packed into the original game, New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe adds a few nice extra modes: - **"Boost Rush"** auto-scrolls and speeds up levels for challenging time trials. Really tests your platforming reflexes! - **"Challenges"** are over 100 bite-sized task rooms focusing on specific skills. Coins reward you for completing them quickly. - **"Coin Battle"** lets you compete against others locally to collect the most coins across levels in a time limit. Quite frantic! These modes provide some great replay value beyond just running through the main game. I had fun challenging my skills in Boost Rush and Coin Battle especially, since they force you to think on your feet under pressure. While not major additions, they all still capture that distinct Mario spirit. ## My Verdict: A Nearly Flawless Port As a longtime Mario fan who has played every major entry extensively, I can confidently say New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is about as faithful of a port as you could ask for. Nearly every aspect, from the impeccable platforming feel to exact level layouts, enemy patterns, and power-ups, remains unchanged at its core. The Switch version essentially preserves this acclaimed Mario journey in amber, while enhancing it with subtle tweaks like new characters, polished visuals, and extra replay modes. Nintendo smartly recognized that this game didn‘t need a dramatic makeover. It holds up wonderfully despite originating back in 2012. So if you missed out on the Wii U, New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is absolutely worth experiencing, especially to revisit Mario‘s roots. And even for Wii U veterans, it‘s still an enjoyable nostalgic trip with a fresh coat of paint. This expanded port stays true to what made (and still makes) the Mario franchise special. --- Source: [Is Super Mario Deluxe like the original? A Nostalgic Platforming Experience Recreated for the Nintendo Switch](https://33rdsquare.com/is-super-mario-deluxe-like-the-original-a-nostalgic-platforming-experience-recreated-for-the-nintendo-switch/)