The Mario franchise has been a staple of the gaming world for decades, and the release of Super Mario Bros. U and its subsequent deluxe edition has left many gamers wondering: what’s the difference between these two titles? As a long-time Mario fan, I’m here to break down the key differences between Super Mario Bros. U and Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe, so you can make an informed decision about which game to play.
The Original: Super Mario Bros. U
Released in 2012 for the Wii U console, Super Mario Bros. U was a launch title that showcased the full potential of Nintendo’s newest hardware. This side-scrolling platformer was designed to take advantage of the Wii U’s HD capabilities, resulting in vibrant, colorful graphics that brought the Mushroom Kingdom to life.
At its core, Super Mario Bros. U is a classic Mario game, with a focus on precision jumping, power-ups, and rescuing Princess Peach from the clutches of Bowser. The game features 8 worlds, each with its own unique theme, levels, and challenges. Players can control Mario, Luigi, Yellow Toad, and Blue Toad, each with their own abilities and attributes.
New Features and Innovations
Super Mario Bros. U introduced several new features that set it apart from previous Mario titles. One of the most notable innovations was the use of the Wii U GamePad, which allowed for off-TV play, touchscreen control, and asymmetrical multiplayer. The GamePad’s built-in gyroscope and accelerometer enabled motion controls, adding a new layer of depth to the gameplay experience.
Another significant addition was the Flying Squirrel power-up, which granted Mario the ability to glide and climb walls. This power-up opened up new possibilities for level design and exploration, and added a fresh twist to the classic Mario formula.
The Upgrade: Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe
Fast-forward to 2019, when Nintendo released Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe for the Nintendo Switch console. This enhanced version of the game built upon the foundation laid by the original, with a host of new features, improvements, and refinements.
What’s New in Deluxe?
So, what sets Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe apart from its predecessor? For starters, the game features improved graphics, with crisper textures, more detailed character models, and enhanced lighting effects. The Switch’s portable mode allows for seamless gameplay on-the-go, making it the perfect way to experience Mario’s adventures anywhere, anytime.
Perhaps the most significant addition to Deluxe is the inclusion of Toadette as a playable character. This new playable character brings her own unique abilities and attributes to the table, including the ability to use the Super Crown power-up to turn into Peachette, a more powerful version of herself.
New Power-Ups and Items
Deluxe also introduces new power-ups and items to the Mario roster. The Super Bell power-up, previously seen in Super Mario 3D World, makes its debut in a 2D Mario game, granting Mario the ability to turn into a cat and climb walls, among other things. Other new items include the Mushroom Platform, which allows for temporary platforms to be created, and the Coins Rush mode, which challenges players to collect as many coins as possible within a set time limit.
Gameplay Tweaks and Balance Changes
Deluxe also features several gameplay tweaks and balance changes designed to make the game more accessible and enjoyable for new players. These changes include reduced difficulty in certain levels, increased power-up availability, and adjusted enemy placement to reduce frustration and improve the overall flow of the game.
Comparison Time: Super Mario Bros. U vs. Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe
Now that we’ve explored the key features and differences between Super Mario Bros. U and Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe, let’s take a closer look at how they stack up against each other.
| Feature | Super Mario Bros. U | Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe |
|---|---|---|
| Graphics | HD graphics, 1080p resolution | Improved HD graphics, 1080p resolution |
| Playable Characters | Mario, Luigi, Yellow Toad, Blue Toad | Mario, Luigi, Yellow Toad, Blue Toad, Toadette |
| Power-Ups | Flying Squirrel, Mushroom, Fire Flower | Flying Squirrel, Mushroom, Fire Flower, Super Bell, Super Crown |
| Gameplay Modes | Single-player, Multiplayer | Single-player, Multiplayer, Coins Rush |
| Platform | Wii U | Nintendo Switch |
Conclusion
So, which game is right for you? If you’re a fan of the classic Mario formula and don’t mind playing on the Wii U, Super Mario Bros. U is still a great option. However, if you’re looking for the ultimate Mario experience with improved graphics, new features, and a more accessible gameplay experience, Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is the clear winner.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and your gaming setup. If you’re new to the Mario series or looking for a fresh take on the classic formula, Deluxe is the way to go. But if you’re a die-hard Mario fan who wants to experience the original game in its purest form, Super Mario Bros. U is still worth playing.
Either way, you can’t go wrong with either option. Both Super Mario Bros. U and Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe are exceptional games that showcase the best of what the Mario franchise has to offer. So, grab a controller, and get ready to join Mario on his wildest adventure yet!
What are the main differences between Super Mario Bros. U and Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe?
The main differences between Super Mario Bros. U and Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe lie in their gameplay features, graphics, and overall player experience. Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is an enhanced version of the original game, offering new characters, modes, and gameplay mechanics that set it apart from its predecessor.
In terms of gameplay, Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe introduces new playable characters, such as Toadette, and new power-ups, like the Super Crown. The game also features a new mode called “New Super Luigi U,” which offers a fresh take on the classic Mario gameplay. Additionally, the Deluxe version boasts improved graphics and sound design, making for a more immersive gaming experience.
Is Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe worth the upgrade?
Whether or not Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is worth the upgrade depends on individual preferences and gaming needs. If you’re a die-hard Mario fan or new to the series, the Deluxe version offers a richer and more comprehensive experience. The new characters, modes, and gameplay mechanics add a layer of depth and replayability to the game.
However, if you’ve already played and completed Super Mario Bros. U, the upgrades might not be significant enough to warrant a purchase. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and whether the new features and improvements are worth the investment.
Can I play Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe with friends and family?
Yes, Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe offers multiplayer capabilities, allowing you to play with friends and family locally. The game supports up to four players simultaneously, making it an excellent option for those who enjoy playing with others.
In addition to local multiplayer, the Deluxe version also features online multiplayer capabilities, allowing you to connect with other players worldwide. This adds a new level of social interaction and competition to the game, making it a great option for those who enjoy playing with others online.
Is Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe suitable for players of all ages?
Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is designed to be accessible to players of all ages and skill levels. The game’s colorful graphics, charming characters, and intuitive gameplay make it an excellent option for younger players.
At the same time, the game’s challenging levels and hidden secrets provide a sufficient level of difficulty to appeal to more experienced players. The Deluxe version also includes a range of assistive features, such as the “Assist Mode,” which can help younger or less experienced players navigate the game’s more challenging sections.
Can I play Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe on any Nintendo console?
Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is exclusively available on the Nintendo Switch console. This means you’ll need a Switch or Switch Lite to play the game.
The game takes full advantage of the Switch’s hardware capabilities, offering a seamless gaming experience whether you’re playing at home or on the go. The portability of the Switch also makes it easy to play Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe anywhere, anytime.
How long does it take to complete Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe?
The time it takes to complete Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe depends on several factors, including your skill level, playing style, and level of dedication.
On average, it can take around 10-15 hours to complete the main story mode, although this can vary significantly depending on how much time you spend exploring the game’s various levels and collecting hidden secrets. Additionally, the game’s multiplayer mode and other features can add countless hours of gameplay, making it a great option for those who enjoy playing games with a high replay value.
Is Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe a good value for the price?
Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe offers excellent value for the price, considering the sheer amount of content and gameplay it provides. The game’s improved graphics, new characters, and gameplay mechanics make it a significant upgrade over the original Super Mario Bros. U.
In terms of pricing, the Deluxe version is relatively affordable compared to other major Nintendo releases, making it an excellent option for those looking for a fun and engaging gaming experience without breaking the bank.