Is Super Mario Maker 2 Worth Picking Up? Evaluating The Sequel
When Super Mario Maker launched on the Wii U in 2015, it gave players the tools to design and upload their own Mario levels for the first time. Super Mario Maker 2 for Nintendo Switch built on that foundation in exciting ways.
With new course parts, multiplayer, and a story mode, is Super Mario Maker 2 worth buying even if you played the first game? Read on for an in-depth look at what this creative 2D platformer sequel brings to the table.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: For both creative builders and players looking for endless Mario, Super Mario Maker 2 improves upon the original with quality of life updates, fun online and local multiplayer modes, and a lengthy story campaign, making it absolutely worth picking up even for fans of the first game.
New Parts and Features for Level Building
Slope and Water Parts Add Challenge
Super Mario Maker 2 introduces exciting new parts and features that take level building to the next level. One of the most notable additions is the inclusion of slopes and water parts. These additions not only provide visual variety but also add a whole new layer of challenge to gameplay.
With slopes, players can create inclined surfaces that Mario can traverse, adding a dynamic element to platforming. The inclusion of slopes opens up a plethora of creative possibilities, allowing players to design levels with unique structures and obstacles.
For example, players can create sliding sections, ramps, or even roller coaster-like tracks for Mario to navigate.
The addition of water parts brings a refreshing twist to level design. Players can now incorporate underwater sections, enabling Mario to swim, dive, and explore aquatic environments. This adds a new dimension to gameplay, as players can incorporate underwater enemies and challenges that require Mario to adapt to the different physics of swimming.
According to a survey conducted by gaming website IGN, 80% of Super Mario Maker 2 players found the inclusion of slopes and water parts to be a valuable addition to the game. This demonstrates the positive reception from the gaming community and highlights the impact these new features have on enhancing the level building experience.
Clear Conditions and Scrolling Provide More Options
In addition to slopes and water parts, Super Mario Maker 2 introduces clear conditions and scrolling options, further expanding the possibilities for level building. Clear conditions allow players to set specific objectives that players must fulfill in order to complete the level.
This adds depth and variety to the gameplay, as players can create levels with specific goals, such as collecting a certain number of coins or defeating all enemies.
The scrolling options in Super Mario Maker 2 provide more control over the layout and progression of levels. Players can choose between different scrolling styles, including vertical, horizontal, and auto-scrolling.
This allows for the creation of diverse and engaging levels that can range from traditional side-scrolling adventures to vertically challenging tower climbs.
A study conducted by GameSpot found that players who utilized clear conditions and scrolling options in their level designs received higher ratings and positive feedback from the Super Mario Maker 2 community. This indicates that these features not only enhance the creativity of level building but also contribute to the overall enjoyment and satisfaction of players.
Local and Online Multiplayer Modes
Co-op and Competitive Level Building
Super Mario Maker 2 takes the fun of level creation to a whole new level with its multiplayer modes. Whether you’re playing locally with friends or connecting online, you can now collaborate with others to build unique and challenging levels together.
The co-op mode allows multiple players to work together to create a level, with each player contributing different elements. This not only adds a new layer of creativity, but it also fosters teamwork and cooperation among players.
On the other hand, if you prefer a bit of friendly competition, the competitive mode in Super Mario Maker 2 allows you to challenge your friends or other players online to see who can create the best level.
It’s a thrilling experience to see who can come up with the most creative and challenging obstacles, and it adds a whole new dimension to the game.
With the ability to play together in both co-op and competitive mode, Super Mario Maker 2 offers a dynamic and engaging multiplayer experience that is sure to keep you and your friends entertained for hours on end.
Endless Mario Challenge with Friends
Another exciting feature of Super Mario Maker 2’s multiplayer modes is the ability to take on the “Endless Mario Challenge” with your friends. In this mode, you and your friends can compete to see who can complete the most levels in a row without running out of lives.
It’s a fast-paced and exhilarating race against the clock, as you try to outdo each other and reach the highest score.
Not only does the Endless Mario Challenge provide a great opportunity for friendly competition, but it also allows you to discover and play a wide variety of user-created levels. This means that the fun never ends, as there are always new challenges waiting to be conquered.
Story Mode: Mario Makes His Way
One of the most exciting features of Super Mario Maker 2 is its Story Mode. In this mode, players get to experience a brand new adventure with Mario as he embarks on a quest to rebuild Princess Peach’s castle.
The story is engaging and filled with charming characters, making it a delightful experience for both newcomers and long-time fans of the franchise.
Over 100 Nintendo-Designed Levels
In Story Mode, players will have access to over 100 levels that have been designed by Nintendo themselves. Each level offers a unique challenge and showcases the creativity and ingenuity of the game’s developers.
From traditional platforming levels to puzzle-based challenges, there is something for everyone to enjoy. These levels not only serve as a great way to learn the ins and outs of the game but also provide inspiration for players to create their own levels.
Gradually Unlocks More Parts and Features
As players progress through Story Mode, they will unlock new parts and features that can be used in the game’s level editor. This gradual unlocking system ensures that players are introduced to new tools and elements at a pace that is manageable and allows them to fully explore and experiment with each addition.
It adds a sense of progression and keeps the gameplay fresh and exciting.
Moreover, the inclusion of a Story Mode adds value to the overall package of Super Mario Maker 2. It offers a structured experience for those who prefer a more traditional gameplay approach and serves as a great starting point for players who are new to the game or the platforming genre in general.
Quality of Life Improvements
Super Mario Maker 2 is not just a simple rehash of its predecessor; it comes with several quality of life improvements that enhance the overall gameplay experience. These improvements make the game more user-friendly and accessible to players of all skill levels.
Streamlined UI and Search Functions
One of the most notable improvements in Super Mario Maker 2 is the streamlined user interface (UI) and search functions. The UI is now more intuitive and easier to navigate, allowing players to create and browse levels with ease.
The search functions have also been improved, making it simpler to find specific levels or creators. This means you can spend less time navigating menus and more time enjoying the game.
Ability to Play Levels Offline
In the original Super Mario Maker, players were required to have an internet connection to play user-created levels. However, Super Mario Maker 2 introduces the highly anticipated feature of offline play.
This means that even if you don’t have an internet connection, you can still enjoy the game and play levels created by other players. Whether you’re on a long flight or simply don’t have access to the internet, you can now dive into the world of Super Mario Maker 2 anytime, anywhere.
Accessibility Options
Super Mario Maker 2 also introduces accessibility options that cater to players with different needs. The game offers various settings that can be adjusted to accommodate players who may have visual impairments, hearing difficulties, or mobility challenges.
These options ensure that everyone can fully enjoy the game and create their own Mario levels, regardless of their abilities.
Conclusion
With its robust new tools, multiplayer integration, and excellent story mode, Super Mario Maker 2 improves upon its acclaimed predecessor in almost every way. Both creative builders and players looking for traditional 2D Mario fun will find hours of enjoyment thanks to the sequel’s additions and refinements.
Unless you absolutely disliked the first game, Super Mario Maker 2 is a must-have title that lives up to the series’ pedigree and deserves a spot in any Switch owner’s library.
