With an all new way to play, New Super Mario Bros. U brings back classic characters like Mario, Luigi and Toad, but brings in a new character to join in the platform fun – you! Use your Mii character to tear through this latest 2D side-scrolling Mario adventure, with a giant world map packed with new courses and challenges, the likes of which are only possible on Wii U.
New Super Mario Bros. U makes full use of the capabilities of the Wii U console, by using the Wii U GamePad to increase the options for both solo and multiplayer gaming. If your main screen is in use, use the GamePad to continue the action by yourself or, if you want to team up with friends, things get even more exciting. Up to four players with Wii Remote controllers can run, jump and bounce through these all-new stages, or add a fifth player with the GamePad to play in Boost Mode. Here, the GamePad player can tap the screen to place platforms on the screen to help with the challenge. This adds an incredible new facet to the classic Mario gameplay we know and love, with players all working together to clear a course. There are times where this co-operation is essential if you want to take specific routes or set new scores and times.
Those who buy New Super Mario Bros. U to experience classic Mario action won’t be disappointed, as you can expect all the usual platform action with new features and challenges thrown in too. Transform into Flying Squirrel Mario in order to swoop through different levels by clinging to walls, or get to grips with Balloon Baby Yoshi if you want to float gracefully through the air. There are various types of coloured Yoshis out there, as well as all new power-ups, that will give you fresh ways to traverse the perils and platforms of the Mushroom Kingdom. When it comes to gameplay modes, there are all sorts of ways to stretch your skills. Boost Rush mode lets you power through automatically scrolling levels which speed up as you collect coins. Here, up to five players can work together to get through the course as quickly as possible – then sit back and watch the replay to see how you can tighten up that time on your next attempt!
If you want to get a bit more competitive, why not race to grab coins and power-ups while avoiding the bothersome blocks and obstacles being placed in your way by the person controlling the GamePad! Or why not try the Challenge Mode to really test your skills? You can play in Time Attack and set a record for others to tackle, take a shot at 1-Up Rally and much more. As you can do these in solo or multiplayer mode, there are even more ways to set scores and unlock further challenges. You can even take part in Boost Mode Challenges, which can be replayed after you’ve completed them, to make you more effective in Boost Mode! Coin Battle mode, on the other hand, lets two to four players battle as individuals or join together as teams to grab coins. Additional players can use the Boost Mode option to either favour or foil players, making it a new experience every time.
Take the game to the online world by using the Miiverse to share any of your accomplishments via the Nintendo Network, or alternatively, warn or advise others on the best way to overcome the more difficult moments of the game as they play.
