Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury: Nintendo Switch Review

Hey guys! Get ready to jump, dash, and pounce into an amazing adventure because Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury is here on the Nintendo Switch, and it's an absolute blast! This isn't just a simple port; it's a fantastic package deal that brings together the beloved Super Mario 3D World and a brand-new, open-world experience called Bowser's Fury. Whether you're a long-time Mario fan or new to the Mushroom Kingdom, this game has something special for everyone. Let's dive into why this game is a must-have for your Switch library.

Super Mario 3D World: The Classic Multiplayer Mayhem

First off, let's talk about Super Mario 3D World. Originally released on the Wii U, this gem is finally getting the love it deserves on the Switch. If you missed it the first time around, you're in for a treat! This game is a delightful romp through colorful and creative 3D levels, perfect for both solo play and multiplayer madness. You can team up with up to three friends locally or online to conquer stages together, and trust me, the chaotic fun is part of the charm. Imagine four players all vying for the same power-ups, bumping each other off platforms, and laughing all the way to the flagpole – it’s pure Mario magic.

The gameplay in Super Mario 3D World is classic Mario but with a fresh twist. You'll control Mario, Luigi, Peach, and Toad, each with their own unique abilities. Mario is the all-rounder, Luigi jumps the highest, Peach can float for a short time, and Toad is the fastest on the ground. Switching between characters adds a layer of strategy to the levels, encouraging you to experiment and find the best fit for each challenge. And let's not forget the power-ups! The Super Bell, which transforms you into the adorable Cat Mario, is a standout, allowing you to climb walls and pounce on enemies. The Double Cherry, which creates clones of your character, leads to some truly hilarious and inventive platforming moments.

The level design in Super Mario 3D World is top-notch. Each world is brimming with creativity, offering a diverse range of themes and challenges. One moment you're scaling a giant tree, the next you're navigating a haunted mansion, and then you might find yourself ice-skating across a frozen lake. The levels are packed with secrets and collectibles, encouraging you to explore every nook and cranny. Finding all the Green Stars and stamps adds a layer of replayability that completionists will adore. Plus, the boss battles are inventive and satisfying, each requiring a unique strategy to defeat.

The Switch version of Super Mario 3D World also includes a few enhancements that make it even better than the original. The characters move slightly faster, making the gameplay feel more fluid and responsive. The online multiplayer has been improved, offering a smoother and more stable experience. And of course, the game looks gorgeous in HD, with vibrant colors and crisp visuals that pop on the Switch's screen. Whether you're playing on your TV or in handheld mode, Super Mario 3D World is a visual treat.

Bowser's Fury: An Open-World Mario Evolution

Now, let's talk about the real showstopper: Bowser's Fury. This is a brand-new adventure that feels like a bold step forward for the Mario franchise. It's an open-world experience set in Lake Lapcat, a sprawling, interconnected world filled with islands, secrets, and a whole lot of feline flair. The entire setting has a charming cat theme, with cat-eared Piranha Plants, cat-shaped trees, and even a giant Cat Mario statue. It's whimsical, delightful, and utterly Mario.

But the big twist in Bowser's Fury is the titular Fury Bowser. This monstrous, rampaging version of Bowser is a force of nature, wreaking havoc across Lake Lapcat. Every few minutes, Fury Bowser will awaken, unleashing fiery attacks and transforming the world into a stormy, chaotic landscape. The sky turns dark, the music intensifies, and fiery meteors rain down from the sky. It's an intense and exhilarating experience, forcing you to adapt and strategize on the fly.

To combat Fury Bowser, you'll need to collect Cat Shines, which are scattered throughout Lake Lapcat. These act as the equivalent of Stars or Moons in other Mario games, and they're essential for powering up the Giga Bell, which transforms Mario into the mighty Giga Cat Mario. The battles against Fury Bowser are epic clashes, with Mario and Bowser trading blows in a massive showdown. These encounters are visually stunning and incredibly satisfying, and they break up the open-world exploration in a dynamic and exciting way.

The open-world structure of Bowser's Fury is a breath of fresh air for the Mario series. You're free to explore Lake Lapcat at your own pace, discovering new islands, solving puzzles, and uncovering secrets. The world is densely packed with content, and there's always something new to find. Each island has its own unique challenges and objectives, and you can tackle them in any order you choose. This freedom of exploration makes Bowser's Fury feel like a natural evolution of the Mario formula, blending the classic platforming gameplay with a modern open-world design.

Mario's trusty companion, Bowser Jr., also plays a significant role in Bowser's Fury. He can assist you in battles, attack enemies, and even help you find collectibles. You can also have a second player control Bowser Jr. in co-op mode, adding another layer of fun to the experience. Playing with a friend makes exploring Lake Lapcat even more enjoyable, and it's a great way to tackle the challenges together.

The Verdict: Why You Need This Game

So, what's the final verdict on Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury? It's a resounding must-buy for any Nintendo Switch owner. This package offers two fantastic Mario adventures in one, providing hours of fun for both solo players and groups of friends. Super Mario 3D World is a delightful multiplayer platformer with inventive level design and charming characters. Bowser's Fury is a bold and exciting open-world experience that pushes the Mario formula in new and interesting directions. Together, they form an unbeatable combination.

If you missed Super Mario 3D World on the Wii U, this is the perfect opportunity to experience it in all its HD glory. And Bowser's Fury is a must-play for any Mario fan, offering a fresh and innovative take on the classic formula. The game looks and plays beautifully on the Switch, whether you're playing on your TV or in handheld mode. The enhanced visuals, smoother gameplay, and improved online multiplayer make this the definitive version of Super Mario 3D World.

But beyond the technical improvements and new features, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury is simply a joy to play. It's a game that's bursting with creativity, charm, and that unmistakable Mario magic. The platforming is tight and responsive, the levels are imaginative and challenging, and the characters are as lovable as ever. Whether you're a seasoned Mario veteran or a newcomer to the series, you're guaranteed to have a blast exploring these two incredible worlds.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your Switch, gather your friends, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure. Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury is a triumph, and it's a game that deserves a place in every Switch library. Trust me, guys, you won't be disappointed! This is Mario at his finest, and it's a reminder of why we all fell in love with the Mushroom Kingdom in the first place. Happy gaming!