It’s been a pretty big year for Nintendo’s Italian plumber so far. We’re in the midst of his 40th birthday celebrations, we recently had Mar10 Day, we just got Super Mario Bros. Wonder – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Meetup In Bellabel Park, and right now, the Super Mario Galaxy Movie is playing in theaters.

In light of this Mario-crazy year, then, game accessory manufacturer Turtle Beach has released some Switch 2 gear that’s centered around Nintendo’s most iconic character. And what do you know, I’ve been lucky enough to get my hands on some of these new Nintendo Switch 2 accessories myself.

Specifically, I’ve been able to test a new version of the Turtle Beach Rematch Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch 2, which features both Mario and Luigi, as well as a Mario-themed version of the Turtle Beach Airlite Fit Wired Gaming Headset. And even though these come in at fairly modest price-points — especially compared to first-party alternatives — I’ve had a pretty good time with both so far.

And so, I’m here to tell you about my time with Turtle Beach’s newly released Switch 2 accessories, and reveal the five things that surprised me the most about them. Interested? Of course you are — so let’s-a-get into my list!

Rematch Wireless Controller: terrific TMR thumbsticks

Given that the official Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller does not feature Hall Effect or similar tech, I was wowed to see the Rematch’s inclusion of TMR thumbsticks.

These TMR thumbsticks provide strong responsiveness and precision, and also reduce your chances of encountering stick drift. When I previously reviewed the Rematch, I already appreciated the fluid, smooth feel of the thumbsticks, and as you’d expect, they’re a hit once more on this Mario Bros-adorned model.

Turtle Beach’s controller is on the market for around $20 / £20 / AU$20 less than the official Pro Controller, and so I really wasn’t expecting to see a feature like TMR thumbsticks, but it’s easily one of this model’s key selling points.

Rematch Wireless Controller: bountiful battery life

Talking of key selling points, it’s really hard to look past the Rematch controller’s battery life. That’s right, Turtle Beach claims that you get as much as 40 hours of playtime from this model, which is ideal for people like me who always forget to charge their gadgets.

I’ve been using the Mario Bros. version of the Rematch controller to fuel my full-blown and semi-problematic addiction to Pokémon Pokopia as of late. And I have to say, that 40-hour figure seems accurate in my experience — I’ve barely had to re-juice the battery.

That 40-hour amount is also equal to the costlier official Switch 2 Pro Controller, which we currently rate as the top controller in our guide to the best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories.

AirLite Fit Wired Gaming Headset: a shockingly low price

Let’s move on over to the AirLite Fit now, a wired headset which is optimized for Nintendo Switch 2. And one thing shocked me about this Mario-equipped gear right out of the gate: its exceptionally low price.

That’s right, this headset comes in at just $27.99 / £19.99, making it an incredibly budget-friendly option. Considering that you get a noise-cancelling microphone, adjustable headband, and generously padded earcups, that’s not a bad price at all. Of course, you don’t get the convenience of wireless connectivity, and the 40mm drivers won’t provide the most crystal clear sound quality you’ve ever heard, but for less than $30 / £20, that’s to be expected.

Given that the officially licensed PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2 have a list price of $24.99 / £19.99, it seems as if Turtle Beach’s headset is priced very generously indeed.

AirLite Fit Wired Gaming Headset: genuinely solid mic quality

I was delighted to see that the AirLite Fit had a noise-cancelling mic, and I made sure to put it to the test for video calls, voice recording tests, and for GameChat.

Although you won’t get the most technologically sophisticated noise canceling ever on the Airlite Fit, background noises are certainly dimmed to a decent effect. In addition, I was very pleased to hear little to no background static when recording my voice — something a lot of cheap headsets fall foul of. More generally, my voice was clear, and my speech sounded well-defined, rather than muddy or tinny.

I also love how the headset's mic is flip-to-mute, meaning you simply flick it upwards and your friends — or indeed enemies — will be unable to hear you. Not bad, eh?

Rematch & AirLite Fit: their personality-filled designs

Let’s bring these Mario-themed accessories together for a moment, and talk about something they both nail: their eye-catching designs.

Now, a lot of budget accessories have a plain black build and struggle to stand out in a fairly convoluted market. But Turtle Beach’s new accessories surprised me with vibrant, personality-filled designs that are genuinely a joy to behold.

I’ll start with the controller, and while Mario and Luigi aura-farming while standing back-to-back caught my eye, it was something else that really piqued my interest. See, when the model is in use, a bunch of Super Mario power-ups light up across the face of the controller, including mushrooms, stars, boomerangs, shells…you name it! You can even cycle between four different lighting modes, which keeps things fresh.

As for the AirLite fit, I’m a fan of the semi-translucent design, as well as the inclusion of Mario on each earcup. The red and black colorway is enticing as well, and mirrors how the Switch 2 console has an understated design with tasteful pops of color.

Both accessories look great, in my view, and they surpassed my expectations in many areas. Oh, and they’re both compatible with the original Nintendo Switch as well as its successor, making them readily available to a whole lot of players.

Super Mario Bros. Wonder – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Meetup in Bellabel Park has arrived, and aims to bring enhanced graphics, improved multiplayer functionality, and even more surreal levels to the table.

I’ve spent more than 25 hours playing through the game, during which time I collected every Wonder Seed, completed the new Bellabel Park content, and took on other journalists in competitive multiplayer minigames.

But after all of this, do I think that this Nintendo Switch 2 edition is worth picking up? And should existing Super Mario Bros. Wonder owners consider upgrading? I’ll reveal my thoughts down below.

We’re coming for you, Koopalings

I want to kick things off by looking at the new stuff — a lot of which is centered around a new area, named Bellabel Park. In this garden-like playground, you can play minigames, take on brand new bosses, or decorate the park. And there’s quite a bit of fun to be had here overall.

First, let’s tackle the new levels, which focus on the dastardly Koopalings. That’s right, Bowser’s minions are back, and they’ve stolen the coveted Bellabel Flowers. In order to reclaim them, you’ll need to venture all across the Flower Kingdom and enlist the help of Captain Toad and his Brigade along the way.

Now, this approach may keep new content evenly spread out, but in reality, it’s never particularly hard to find the Koopalings. You’ll easily encounter Captain Toad tents as you progress through the story, which you can approach to instantly battle it out against the likes of Wendy, Iggy, and Ludwig. But anyway, are these boss fights actually any good?

Well, in my view, yes, they are. Each Koopaling will assume a Wonder Form, and these all impressed me with their creativity. For instance, Wendy becomes almost like a Cheep Cheep, while Morton turns into a puppet-like creature, controlled by a malevolent pair of Lakitu (Lakitus? Lakitii?). These battles are engaging and bursting with imagination, although I certainly found them to be on the easy side — I don’t think I lost a single life to any Koopaling.

Still, the charismatic designs of each boss, and figuring out how to take them down was entertaining, and I expect that most fans will enjoy these battles.

Another new addition I had fun with was the Toad Brigade Training Courses. Here, you’ll take on a range of challenges, including time-restricted courses, as well as levels where you can’t touch an enemy, to name a couple. These are usually pretty quick to blast through, and some genuinely offer a challenge, making them ideal to dip into between worlds, or when you’ve got a few spare minutes to play.

By completing Training Courses, you’ll earn Bellabel Water, which can be exchanged for flowers and used to decorate Bellabel Park. You might adorn a Wiggler Topiary with fungi, or you may even cover your courtyard in Butterfly Bloom petals. But to be honest, I didn’t get any kicks out of decorating — there’s not much of an incentive to do so, and you could easily neglect this feature entirely without missing out on anything substantial.

However, you can also use Bellabel Water at the shop or the Fountain area, which will earn you items like flowers, but also reactions and instruments. Reactions can be used to communicate during online play, while the instruments can be collected to flesh out a Poplin band. And both of these felt like better rewards than the decorative flowers to me. But I still think there could be a better incentive for completing Training Courses, like unlockable costumes for Mario and friends, for example.

Mario Party lite

We’ve spoken about the new single-player content, which is pretty good overall. However, it’s the multiplayer additions that have been placed front and center in much of this game’s marketing.

And I have to say, I found the multiplayer games to be a bit of a mixed bag. Nintendo set up a session for me, and a few fellow gaming journalists to duke it out in online minigames, and although there were some fun highlights, I was left feeling pretty conflicted.

Many of these online minigames felt reminiscent of Mario Party. For instance, there are games where you’ll race in a roller-skate or even with a propeller flower, and I found the racing games to be some of the best. Totally not because they were some of the only ones I’d win…

However, there are more options. One that stuck out was a hide-and-seek game, where two players can morph into a block or coin, while others are tasked with hunting them down and tagging them. If you’re ‘it’ when the time runs out, you lose, and this setup created a couple of last-second twists. It’s fun for a little while, but I didn’t feel compelled to play this game more than a few times.

You can also access competitive and co-op minigames when playing locally, with options including Yoshi enemy-eating contests, games where you use mouse mode to assist players through a course, and a relay where you have to get a Bob-omb to the finish line before it explodes. There’s a decent amount of variety, but it’s nothing compared to the eclectic collection of minigames in Super Mario Party Jamboree, for instance.

Overall, I’d argue that the multiplayer additions are…alright. Some of the attractions did put a smile on my face — but only for a few minutes, and they didn’t have the same chaotic and addictive edge that Mario Party minigames possess. Sure, if you’re looking for some quick multiplayer fun, the attractions are by no means bad. But can I see myself coming back to these for years to come — just as I’ve done with Jamboree’s minigames? I don’t think so.

A wonderful core-experience, re-planted

Even if the multiplayer content didn’t blow me away, it’s worth noting that the core Super Mario Bros. Wonder experience is better than ever on Nintendo Switch 2.

There are a few new additions, including a new Assist Mode which prevents you from taking damage — ideal for younger players. There’s also the option to play as fan-favorite princess Rosalina, while a second player can take on the role of Co-Star Luma, and use mouse mode controls to defeat enemies and collect coins.

But there’s more! You can also skip around with the Super Flower Pot power-up, which enables you to hover in the air and throw petals upwards to attack enemies. And of course, badges — which enhance abilities or provide new ways to progress through a level — are back. But this time, you can make use of new Dual Badges, which combine the powers of two badges into one — like Parachute Cap and Boosting Spin Jump, for example. The badge system was already a phenomenal way to add depth and customizability to the game, so expanding that further was always going to be a positive for me.

All of these additions are most welcome, and I loved making use of the new Dual Badges to experience levels in a brand new way.

Oh, and it’s also worth mentioning that the main game itself is absolutely exquisite once more. The game is filled with phenomenal level design, and Wonder Flowers provide a psychedelic take on classic 2D Mario that’s absolutely intoxicating.

The game is packed with so many stand-out moments, from transforming into a blob, a wrecking ball, or Goomba, through to riding on a flying horde of bulls. This zaniness is something the somewhat bland New Super Mario Bros. series was missing, and if you’ve never played Super Mario Bros. Wonder before, this version is a must-buy.

And this really is the definitive way to play, thanks to the game’s improved graphics on Nintendo Switch 2. I tried comparing this new version to the original Switch alternative — which just so happens to be bundled in with this game — and the difference was night and day.

Characters and enemies alike appear way sharper on the Nintendo Switch 2 edition, with details like Mario’s moustache or writing on his cap appearing substantially clearer. On top of this, colors pop beautifully on this 4K release, with intense pinks and deep reds cutting through with vigor. The overall presentation is great on Switch 2, and pair that with basically faultless 60fps gameplay, and you’ve got great all-round performance.

So, I suppose we should wrap things up now, shouldn't we? The ludicrously long-titled Super Mario Bros. Wonder – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Meetup in Bellabel Park is certainly the definitive way to play through the greatest 2D Mario game in many a year. The improved visuals, inclusion of new characters, and introduction of Dual Badges are all great to see.

Most of the new single player content is enjoyable too, with some entertaining albeit easy boss fights and fast-paced Training Courses. Multiplayer attractions are a mixed bag, and I’m not sure they’re going to offer the long-standing appeal of Mario Party minigames. As a result, I’m not sure this edition is a must-buy for those upgrading from the original Super Mario Bros. Wonder — unless you really want to scrap the Koopalings, that is. But for first-time players, this Switch 2 revamp is a great overall package, and I’d highly recommend scooping it up.

Should you play Super Mario Bros. Wonder – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Meetup in Bellabel Park?:

Play it if...

Don't play it if...

Accessibility features

Although there aren’t a ton of accessibility features in this game, the settings menu does enable you to make some changes. For instance, you can select a number of spoken and text languages, adjust the camera, alter some controls, and have rumble turned on or off. Unfortunately, there’s nothing like a colorblind mode or similar.

How I reviewed Super Mario Bros. Wonder – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Meetup in Bellabel Park:

I spent in excess of 25 hours playing through Super Mario Bros. Wonder – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Meetup in Bellabel Park. During this time, I played through the entire main game, regained all of the Bellabel Flowers, and even played multiplayer minigames online.

For the most part, I played the game in docked mode, with my Switch 2 console hooked up to the Sky Glass Gen 2 TV and my Marshall Heston 120 soundbar. However, I did also enjoy playing in handheld mode, and I occasionally connected up the Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones to my console when doing so.

More generally, I’ve reviewed a whole lot of games for TechRadar, including Switch 2 titles like Kirby Air Riders and Drag x Drive. I’ve also owned the Switch 2 since launch, and have been playing Mario games for decades, with my favorite entry in the series being Super Mario Odyssey (sorry, Super Mario Galaxy fans).

First reviewed March 2026

That's right, it's March 10 a.k.a. Mar10 Day - the most important date on any Nintendo fan's calendar!

• View the full Amazon Spring Deal Days sale

A celebration of the entire Super Mario franchise, Nintendo has been commemorating this date for the last few years with a wealth of discounts on all things to do with the iconic red plumber. With the 40th anniversary of the franchise and The Super Mario Galaxy Movie on the horizon, it's an especially exciting time to be a Super Mario fan.

To mark the day, I've put together this collection of some of the best merch that you can buy, plus a range of excellent games. Whether you're new to the series or someone who's been stomping on Goombas for decades, there's sure to be something of interest here.

The best Super Mario Switch and Switch 2 accessories

The best Super Mario Switch and Switch 2 games

The best Super Mario merch and LEGO

• Old Spice has released a new collection in collaboration with The Super Mario Galaxy Movie
• It includes a range of products with scents and packaging inspired by characters from the film
• They're all available now starting at $7.97

A new Old Spice scent collection inspired by the upcoming The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is out now.

It features products that range all the way from deodorant sticks and body spray to shower companions like 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner and body lotion. They come in five distinct The Super Mario Galaxy Movie-inspired scents, adorned with artwork celebrating the movie.

The scents are called Cosmic Quest, Desert Detour, Castle Crush, Brooklyn Bounce, and, in a slightly jarring break from all the alliteration, Space Mischief. I suppose something like 'Space Smell' just doesn't sound that appealing...

Cosmic Quest is described as a "clean fragrance" with watery notes and citrus on a woody and musky base. This sounds quite similar to the company's existing Whitewater scent, which also blends aquatic smells with lime and woody elements. It's branded with an image of Mario flying from space and is presumably some interpretation of how the iconic plumber smells.

Desert Detour, which features Luigi on its art, is apparently "boozy" thanks to its bourbon and black cherry smell, livened up with the addition of orange peel, oak, and vanilla. It sounds almost like the delicious old-fashioned cocktail.

Castle Crush is seemingly inspired by the character of Princess Peach, who appears on its packaging, with an abundance of summery fruits including peach (obviously), mango, pineapple, and grapefruit. This is on top of light touches of bergamot and jasmine plus amber, coconut, and vanilla for added warmth.

The Yoshi-branded Brooklyn Bounce is another fruity one, with citrus and florals intended to capture all the allure "of a tropical sunrise in full bloom."

Finally, Space Mischief is a more masculine fragrance with a clean watery smell and a bold citrus twist. It has the movie's villain, Bowser Junior, on its label.

The whole range is available from US retailers with prices starting at $7.97. Stock is limited and presumably won't be around for long with the movie set to hit theaters on April 1, 2026.

• Nintendo has released a new poster for The Super Mario Galaxy Movie
• It comes ahead of the film's final trailer, which will drop on Monday, March 9
• The artwork reveals two classic villains will appear in the animated flick

A new poster for The Super Mario Galaxy Movie (TSMGM) has been unveiled by Nintendo — and it confirms two more Mario villains will show up in the hotly-anticipated sequel.

Released today (March 6), the artwork features plenty of familiar faces, including *deep breath* Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Toad, Bowser, Rosalina, Bowser Jr, and Birdo. Look below Birdo and Yoshi, though, and you'll be able to spot a certain crown-wearing frog.

Only the oldest of Nintendo fans will immediately recognize this character. For the rest of you, that's Wart.

"Erm, who?", I hear you ask. Wart. You know, the primary antagonist of Super Mario Bros. 2, who also wants to conquer Subcon, aka the Land of Dreams, with his gang known as the 8 bits. Not ringing any bells? Stop reading this article, and go and play Super Mario Bros. 2 immediately.

Wart isn't the only foe recently confirmed to appear in the sequel to the billion dollar-spinning The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Look just above Wart on the poster, and you'll spot a sunglasses-wearing rodent. For the uninitiated, that's Mouser, a villain that players are tasked with defeating three times in Super Mario Bros. 2.

Given Wart and Birdo — the latter also appeared as a bad guy (or should that be bad gal?) in the aforementioned Nintendo title — it was highly likely that Mouser would feature in TSMGM, too.

Comment from r/nintendo

There's no word on how big of a role Wart, Mouser, and Birdo will have, nor do we know which of the film's heroes they'll encounter. My best guess? They'll be secondary villains to Bowser and his son, with that pair facing against Mario and Luigi, and Wart and company being the Big Bads that Peach and Toad will encounter on whatever side quest they're on.

One of this year's most exciting new movies is already looking pretty packed on the cast front, but there are bound to be more surprises in store for audiences. In fact, one of them has already been spoiled ahead of time, with one Super Mario Galaxy Movie leak seemingly confirming another major franchise character that will show up.

Will they be officially announced ahead of The Super Mario Galaxy Movie's release on April 1? Who knows. What we do know, however, is that the film's final trailer will premiere on Monday, March 9 at 2pm PT / 5pm ET / 10pm GMT, so make sure you tune into the next Nintendo Direct to watch it.

In the meantime, get the full lowdown on the forthcoming Nintendo, Universal, and Illumination animated flick by finding out everything we know so far about The Super Mario Galaxy Movie.

• A major character's appearance in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie has leaked online
• The spoiler is part of a new story synopsis on a theater chain's website
• Nintendo and Universal are yet to have it removed from said plot brief

Nintendo and Universal executives will be screaming "Waaaa!" today (February 23) after a major character's appearance in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie (TSMGM) leaked online.

The animated sequel to The Super Mario Bros. Movie, TSMGM's release is, at the time of publication, just over a month away. Indeed, one of 2026's many new movies is due out in theaters on April 1.

Unfortunately for the legendary Japanese videogame company and its film studio partner, though, one of TSMGM's biggest surprises appears to have been accidentally revealed ahead of time. Full spoilers immediately follow, including in the screenshot below, for the forthcoming film. Turn back now if you don't want to know anything else!

Per the website of UK theater chain Everyman Cinema, none other than Wario, another of Mario's most staunchest of enemies, is set to feature as part of TSMGM's growing ensemble. Indeed, as the movie's description on the website reads, the legendary Italian plumber and his allies will have to deal with "Wario and Bowser Jr.'s evil alliance" as part of its primary narrative.

This isn't the first we've heard of Bower Jr.'s involvement in the follow-up to one of 2024's highest-grossing movies. Confirmation of his role as antagonist-in-chief came as part of The Super Mario Galaxy Movie's official trailer unveiling alongside the news that writer/director Benny Safdie (The Smashing Machine, Uncut Gems) would voice him.

Wario's big-screen debut, though, was likely being kept under wraps by Nintendo and Universal, so this leak will be a major blow to the pair's plan to keep the long-time Mario adversary's appearance a secret. At the time of this article's publication at 3pm GMT on Monday, February 23, Wario hasn't been removed from the plot brief, either, so it's possible that Nintendo and Universal aren't aware his appearance has even been spoiled.

Wario and Bowser Jr. aren't the only Mario franchise characters who'll make their silver screen debut in TSMGM. Lumas protector-in-chief Princess Rosalina is also set to feature, with Marvel actor Brie Larson voicing her. Last month, we also finally received our first look at Mario ally Yoshi, the green dinosaur's appearance being teased in The Super Mario Bros. Movie's mid-credits scene.

Unfortunately for Donkey Kong fans, his name was missing from the cast list when The Super Mario Galaxy Movie's name and launch date were announced last September. Don't expect to see the Mario villain-turned-ally pop up in the latter's next cinematic adventure, then.

While we wait for its release, find out everything we know so far about The Super Mario Galaxy Movie. Or, if you're looking further ahead, get the full lowdown on The Legend of Zelda Movie, which will premiere in theaters sometime in 2027.

When celebrating the 40th anniversary of Super Mario, I expected something more substantial for gaming's most iconic character than Mario Tennis Fever. But even if it's not a brand-spanking new platformer, the ridiculous success of Mario Kart 8 means it would be unwise to dismiss a Mario spin-off.

Mario sports spin-offs have always been a fun arcade sports alternative to the more serious simulations. But Fever feels like it takes the most inspiration from Mario Kart, while retaining the solid tennis mechanics of its predecessors to make for a more fulsome Nintendo Switch 2 game.

It also does the opposite of what Mario Tennis: Ultra Smash back on the Wii U failed to do, and that's layering these mechanics with a wide variety of content, whether that's different modes and challenges or just having a large roster of characters and fever rackets to unlock so that you can mix up and experiment with the combinations to keep the gameplay feeling fresh.

But with Mario fans having to make do with re-releases like Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2, and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 edition of Super Mario Bros. Wonder, is Mario Tennis Fever going to be enough to satisfy those hankering for a truly new Mario title?

Courting with content

As the first new Mario game for the Switch 2 since launch title Mario Kart World, Fever makes less of a strong case than the faux-pen world racer as an exclusive for Nintendo's new hardware.

Apart from the motion controls of Swing mode previously included in its Switch 1 predecessor, there's a lack of any hardware gimmicks or technical grunt. The most clear difference from previous instalments is that Fever gives more bang for your buck - as it should, being the most expensive Mario Tennis title to date.

The main menu is packed with different modes to play, and sometimes breaks down into further modes. For instance, Ring Shot from Mario Tennis Aces returns, but this time just as one of many other modes under Mix it Up. Here, even more unusual rules come into play, which are also linked to the themed court you're playing in.

For example, one court is designed like a pinball machine where you and the ball can get bounced off pinball bumpers that pop up from the ground or the side, while another is themed after Super Mario Bros. Wonder, where hitting a Wonder Flower causes random things to happen.

This does, however, mean the annoying Talking Flower is a character here, and actually serves as the commentator. You'll also find that even though there's an option to turn off commentary, there will still be times when you can't shut him up.

If you're after something more traditional, Tournament mode offers different tiers of difficulty playable in singles and doubles. A more unconventional challenge, however, is Trial Towers, where you have to complete a run of pre-set challenges with just three lives, progress resetting once you've failed three times.

What makes these trials fun is that each challenge has its own conditions, and also gives you a different character to play as, a good way to force you to mix things up if you're usually only sticking with one or two characters.

That choice of how and who to play is arguably one of Fever's strengths, with a total roster of 36 characters to unlock, more if you take into account the different colour options of several characters, such as Yoshi. There's a nice sense of progression that you'll always be unlocking something new, be it a new character, court, or difficulty mode, especially as some of these come from just playing a set number of matches.

So even if you eat dirt in an online match, you can at least console yourself that it counts towards your goal of unlocking something else. Any piece of grayed-out content will also tell you what you need to achieve to unlock it, which helps with working towards ticking off your achievements.

Fever dream

Adding to that variety is, of course, the introduction of Fever Rackets. The best way of describing it is basically if you put Mario Kart-style items into a tennis match. Once you fill up your Fever gauge, you can activate this on the next returning ball, while having a short window to aim where in the court for it to go, and create all sorts of shenanigans on the court for your opponent.

Flame Racket, for example, scatters flames around where the ball lands, but this is also different from the Fire Bar racket, which creates one of those iconic spinning fire bars on the ground. Then there are rackets that give you an advantage, like having a shadow double running away to return shots for you, or another where you instantly dash to impossible lengths to catch a returning shot.

While these rackets can disrupt and even cause damage to an opponent, they're also not meant to be an ace. Where Mario Tennis Aces could let you win a match by breaking an opponent's racket, a KO isn't an instant forfeit in Fever. It's also possible to counter fever shots by returning the ball before it lands on the ground, meaning you can return a fever racket's effects back to the other player, potentially building up a tense rally with the knowledge that the loser is going to have the disadvantage of mud, slippery ice, or worse to stick out at least the next point.

If you'd rather not do with the gimmicks, then you can also just play classic tennis, where in the ranked online mode, you can choose between singles and doubles modes with or without fever rackets, while on the other extreme, Free Play or custom online lobbies gives you the option to pick two fever rackets in a match then swap between them before a serve so you can change up tactics.

Where fever shots feel underutilised is in the game's Adventure mode, which is also on the short side, even though it has some lovely presentation, including several of the best-looking cinematics in a Mario game since Luigi's Mansion 3.

Even the premise, which finds Mario, Luigi, and Peach (as well as the no-good Wario and Waluigi) turning into babies, is a fun idea that also justifies having to train Baby Mario back to his prime through a role-playing game-style levelling system.

Unfortunately, this also means much of the campaign is a glorified tutorial where you're being taught (and occasionally quizzed) by multiple Toads in every aspect of tennis, with the fever mechanics reduced more to aiming at an enemy weak spot. While there are some well-designed minigames in this section, which can also be replayed on higher difficulties, it's deflating to discover that the adventure proper will have you racing through its world map in and the whole campaign over in about 4 hours.

It's not without some highlights, though if you've already dipped into some of the other modes, there'll also be a touch of deja vu in some of the challenges encountered. The consolation is that there is at least plenty more for you to do in Fever, even if you've rolled credits in Adventure mode.

Should you play Mario Tennis Fever?

Play it if...

Don't play it if...

Accessibility features

Mario Tennis Fever doesn't have accessibility settings specifically, but its settings do allow for adjustments, such as performing moves like lobs and drop shots as one-button inputs, which you can assign to the bumpers or triggers. The camera position can also be adjusted between standard and raised perspectives, and you can also set which racket hand your character is using in both button and swing modes.

How I reviewed Mario Tennis Fever

I played Mario Tennis Fever for about 15 hours on Nintendo Switch 2, which included completing Adventure mode and unlocking a substantial amount of content over 100 matches across different modes. This also included playing some local and online multiplayer matches, but not its Game Share functionality.

I played primarily in docked mode on an LG C2 OLED TV with the default TV speakers. I played mostly with a Switch 2 Pro Controller, but also tested it in handheld mode, as well as the Joy-Con 2 for swing mode.

First reviewed February 2026

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie's (TSMGM) launch date draws ever nearer. And, with the legendary eponymous character's next animated adventure set to arrive two days earlier than expected – it'll arrive on April 1 – the countdown is well and truly on for the Nintendo film sequel's release.

Before it drops on a big screen near you, though, you'll want the complete lowdown on what we know about it thus far. You don't need to look for details about TSMGM in another castle, either, because I've rounded up the biggest and latest news about its trailers, cast list, and story specifics in this handy guide. So, what are you waiting for? Let's-a-dive in and see what's what!

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie release date

As I mentioned above, TSMGM will reunite us with the titular moustachioed hero and numerous other Nintendo characters on April 1.

Initially, it was due out on April 3, with The Super Mario Galaxy Movie's release date being confirmed last September. However, a new trailer – more on that in the next section – revealed its arrival has been moved up two days, which is worth shouting "Yahoo!" about.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie trailer

Revealed in November 2025, the film's first trailer teased plenty about its plot, and new and returning characters. You can learn more about what was shown in my The Super Mario Galaxy Movie's trailer breakdown.

While we're technically awaiting TSMGM's official trailer, we were given another look at the flick by way of a Yoshi reveal teaser, which was released in late January.

Want to know about who else we'll see in TSMGM? I'm glad you asked...

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie confirmed cast

Possible spoilers follow for The Super Mario Galaxy Movie.

Here's the film's confirmed cast of characters, plus the actors who'll voice them:

• Chris Pratt as Mario
• Charlie Day as Luigi
• Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach
• Jack Black as Bowser
• Keegan-Michael Key as Toad
• Kevin Michael Richardson as Kamek
• Brie Larson as Rosalina
• Benny Safdie as Bowser Jr.
• TBC as Yoshi
• TBC as Birdo

The first six individuals appeared in The Super Mario Bros. Movie (TSMBM), aka the first animated film based on Mario's enduringly popular video game franchise.

The only absentee from the aforementioned movie's main cast is Seth Rogen, who voiced Donkey Kong. It's unclear if Mario's foe-turned-friend will appear in TSMGM, but with online rumors suggesting DK is in line to star in his own animated spin-off, he may not feature here.

Four other characters will also show up in TSMBM's sequel.

With The Super Mario Bros. Movie's mid-credits scene practically announcing Yoshi would be part of the proceedings, he was finally unveiled in TSMGM's latest round of footage. That teaser also confirmed Birdo will appear but, bizarrely, Nintendo declined to reveal who'll voice the iconic green and pink dinosaurs.

Nevertheless, the other individuals who've been confirmed to appear are Rosalina and Bowser Jr.

The former, who made her video game debut in 2007 platformer Super Mario Galaxy, will be voiced by Nintendo superfan Brie Larson (Captain Marvel, Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World). Meanwhile, Bowser's son will be portrayed by actor-director Benny Safdie (Uncut Gems, The Smashing Machine).

Given TSMGM will be heavily inspired by the story told in the aforementioned Wii game and Super Mario Galaxy 2, aka its Wii U sequel, it's no great surprise that this duo is part of the movie's plot. As for what its story will entail...

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie story speculation

Potential spoilers follow for The Super Mario Galaxy Movie.

Nintendo hasn't released a story synopsis for TSMGM yet. Thanks to its trailers and what happened in its predecessor, though, there's a fair amount we can speculate about.

As its first teaser, well, teases, the Super Mario Galaxy games aren't the only ones that appear to have influenced it. Various shots include major references to Super Mario Sunshine, Super Mario Odyssey, Super Mario Bros. Wonder, and Paper Mario. So, the legendary Nintendo mascot's full catalog of titles has clearly inspired this flick's story and its wider universe.

It appears Bowser Jr. will be the primary villain – or, at the very least, on co-antagonist duties – too. The first trailer reveals he'll attempt to rescue his dad, who was miniaturized and imprisoned during TSMBM's climax, from Princess Peach's Castle.

To what end, we don't yet know, but the smart money is on the father-son duo teaming up to steal more Power Stars – and that's where Rosalina might fit into the picture.

You see, Rosalina is the protector-in-chief of the Luma, star-like creatures that first appeared in Super Mario Galaxy and some of whom can transform into Power Stars. Considering Bowser acquired a Power Star and threatened to use it to destroy the Mushroom Kingdom if Peach didn't agree to marry him, the prospect of more Power Stars falling into Bowser and his son's hands is a frightening one for everyone else.

Powerful though Rosalina is, she likely won't be alone in defending the Luma. Peach and Toad, who'll use a Star Portal to travel across the cosmos in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, should ally themselves with a character Peach has long been rumored to have a connection to. Well, as long as they aren't overwhelmed by Birdo and the horde of Ninji that attack them in the trailers.

Mario and Luigi, who are seen traveling to what appears to be Odyssey's Sand Kingdom in both teasers, are also expected to join the fight against Bowser, his offspring, and their minions after siding with Peach in The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Yoshi will join them, too, after the brothers come across the iconic, long-tongued dinosaur in the Sand Kingdom.

Hopefully, an actual story synopsis (and official trailer!) will be released online before TSMGM arrives in theaters, which should give us even more information and/or clues on what to expect from Nintendo and Universal's budding cinematic universe.

Where can I watch The Super Mario Bros. Movie?

With less than two months to go until TSMGM arrives, you'll probably want to stream The Super Mario Bros. Movie in the near future. Thankfully, it's available on some of the world's best streaming services, including Peacock (US), ITVX (UK), and 7Plus (Australia).

You can also rent or buy it from various premium video on-demand (PVOD) platforms, including the Amazon store, Apple TV, Sky store, and YouTube. Its availability varies from country to country, though, so be aware that it might not be on offer everywhere.

Will there be another Mario movie?

Nobody knows. However, if The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is as financially successful as its billion-dollar-spinning forebear was – and there's no reason to suspect it won't be – it's inevitable that a third animated Mario film will be greenlit.

TSMGM and a potential sequel flick aren't the only big-screen adaptations that Nintendo Stars, the iconic Japanese company's recently renamed film and TV division, is working on.

A live-action adaptation of The Legend of Zelda game series is set to arrive in May 2027. Principal photography began in late 2025) in New Zealand, with the cameras rolling four months after Nintendo confirmed who'll play Link and Zelda in the upcoming movie.

As I discussed earlier, an animated Donkey Kong film is also thought to be in early development, but Nintendo hasn't officially confirmed it yet. As always, stick with TechRadar for news on this front when we have it.

For more videogame-inspired movie and TV coverage, find out what we know so far about Fallout season 3 and get the full lowdown on The Last of Us season 3.

Yahoo! The wait is finally over, Mario devotees, because the first trailer for The Super Mario Galaxy Movie has arrived.

A sequel to 2023's multi-billion dollar-spinning flick The Super Mario Bro. Movie, the next Nintendo animated film will land in theaters next April. It's high time, then, that we received our first officially look at the forthcoming flick.

Thankfully, a new Nintendo Direct, which took place on November 12, unveiled the film's first teaser and gave us some new information on its cast and plot. So, without further ado, here's everything we've learned about The Super Mario Galaxy Movie via its first official trailer.

Happy 'The Super Mario Galaxy Movie trailer' launch day, everyone!

Hello and welcome to our live blog for The Super Mario Galaxy Movie's official trailer reveal!

I'm Tom Power, senior entertainment reporter here at TechRadar, and I'll be here for the next few hours as we count down towards the release of the highly anticipated film's trailer unveiling.

So, grab yourself a power-up, put your feet up, and follow along with me as we prepare for the teaser's arrival. Yahoo!

What time is The Super Mario Galaxy Movie trailer going to be released?

Alright, let's begin by answering the biggest question on your mind: when will the trailer be with us?

As the above X/Twitter post from Nintendo of America revealed two days ago, it'll receive its world premiere on Wednesday, November 12 at 6am PST / 9am EST / 2pm GMT. It won't be long, then, until we're reunited with Mario and company for their next big-screen adventure.

What we know so far about The Super Mario Galaxy Movie

It's only been a couple of months since the first official details about The Super Mario Galaxy Movie dropped. Indeed, Nintendo only revealed the title, cast, and release window for Mario's next animated movie in mid-September. A 30-second teaser, which you can watch above, was also unveiled.

So, what did we learn? For starters, it'll land in theaters worldwide on April 3, 2026. Cast-wise, every major character who appeared in The Super Mario Bros. Movie – except Donkey Kong – are returning for the sequel.

Lastly, its story will take inspiration from the two Super Mario Galaxy videogames, which were released in 2007 and 2010. Based on who appears in that duo, we've got an idea of which franchise characters will make their big-screen debuts in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, too...

Who else is part of The Super Mario Galaxy Movie's cast?

Right now, there's one character who's all but confirmed to appear, but two others might be part of proceedings as well.

On the former, Yoshi, Mario's trusty dinosaur steed, is set to be involved. Yoshi's addition to this sequel's cast was first teased in one of The Super Mario Bros. Movie's post-credits scenes, so it's inevitable he'll have an integral role to play.

We've already caught a glimpse of what he'll look like in The Super Mario. Galaxy Movie, too. As spotted by notable leaker and X/Twitter user Wario64 (see above), leaked images of a Pillsbury cookies box show the adorable green-hued Nintendo icon's animated film form in all his glory.

Given the film's strong ties to the Super Mario Galaxy videogame series, I'd be amazed if Rosalina and her star-like companion Luma aren't involved. Be on the lookout for confirmation of this pair's cast inclusion via the upcoming trailer.

Plotting out the story

From a story standpoint, Nintendo, plus its big-screen partners Universal and Illumination, haven't revealed any major details yet.

In fact, the only plot-based tease so far has come from Illumination CEO Chris Meledandri, who indicated it won't be a direct adaptation of one or both Super Mario Galaxy games. Speaking during September's Nintendo Direct, he said: "While the Super Mario Galaxy games are a core inspiration for our story, this next film holds surprises for fans of every Mario era".

Given 2026 marks the 40th anniversary of Mario's creation, a whole host of surprises and Easter eggs could await us in the Italian plumber's next silver-screen venture. Keep your eyes peeled for anything of that ilk in the forthcoming teaser.

What are you hoping to see?

It would be remiss of me not to ask you, dear reader, what you're hoping to see from The Super Mario Galaxy Movie.

So, what are your expectations for one of 2026's most exciting new movies? Who do you want to appear? Should we anticipate another classic short song from Jack Black, aka Bowser's voice actor? Get in touch via email (news@techradar.com) or our social media channels to let me know!

Food break!

Alright, time for a quick break to refuel ahead of the event itself. I'll be back soon, so talk among yourselves for the time being!

Warp Pipin' back in

Aaaaaand I'm back. What did I miss?

Okay, we're about 40 minutes away from the official trailer's debut. There'll be plenty of other reveals as part of the movie's forthcoming Nintendo Direct, too, so make sure you stick around after the fact for my analysis of the teaser, the best fan reactions to the footage, and more.

Final predictions

We're less than 15 minutes away from The Super Mario Galaxy Movie Nintendo Direct, so it's time to make some last-minute predictions ahead of the trailer's unveiling.

From a locations perspective, we're bound to visit a couple of key areas of the Super Mario Galaxy games. That should include Comet Observatory, and some of the Domes and/or Galaxies that various missions/quests take place in.

As for other potential character surprises: Bowser Jr. shows up in both Galaxy titles, so he seems like a safe bet. Would it be too much to ask for, say, an appearance from a certain yellow and purple clothes-wearing antagonist in the form of Wario, too? I guess we'll find out shortly!

Here we go!

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie Nintendo Direct has begun! So, what are you waiting for? Watch it via the YouTube embed above!

Aaaaand it's over

Well, that was short and sweet! An eight-minute long Nintendo Direct might be a world record for the shortest one we've ever seen.

Nonetheless, there were a few interesting tidbits revealed alongside the film's first trailer. So, let's discuss them and break down the teaser together, shall we?

Here's The Super Mario Galaxy Movie trailer again

Before we get into all of that, though, how about we watch the trailer one or seven more times, eh? After all, there's probably a couple of things that even the most die-hard Mario fan might have missed in it.

New cast announcements

As Shigeru Miyamoto, the legendary creator of Mario and countless other Nintendo properties, said during the Nintendo Direct, a Super Mario Galaxy movie wouldn't be complete with Rosalina and Bowser Jr., both of whom play integral roles in the Galaxy games.

We've now learned who'll voice the pair in this film, too. As Meledandri revealed, Nintendo superfan Brie Larson (Captain Marvel, Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World) will play Rosalina, the Watcher of the Stars and, in the Mario film franchise at least, is rumored to have a connection to Princess Peach.

Joining Larson on the newcomer front is – as revealed by a gate-crashing Jack Black – Benny Safdie, who's set to voice Bowser Jr. Safdie will be familiar to fans of movies like Uncut Gems and The Smashing Machine – A24-developed movies that Safdie directed, wrote, and/or edited alone or alongside his brother Josh.

An actor in his own right, Safdie has also appeared in front of the camera in flicks like Licorice Pizza, Oppenheimer and Happy Gilmore 2. Outside of The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, his next acting role will be as part of Christopher Nolan's next epic in The Odyssey.

Missing in action

Pleasing as those reveals were, there were a couple of notable absentees from the teaser trailer.

As I mentioned earlier, I don't think anyone expected Donkey Kong to make an appearance. Nevertheless, it's possible that some fans were holding out hope that the iconic great ape would turn up. That's still a distinct possibility but, considering Seth Rogen's name was left off the returning cast list during September's Nintendo Direct, it's looking more like a (warp) pipe dream.

The biggest let-down of the trailer, though, was the lack of Yoshi. It's likely that Nintendo is holding back his full reveal for another trailer and/or the feature's full release. But, given we know he'll be part of The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, it would've been a crowd-pleasing moment to even catch a glimpse of him in action.

Bowser's Castle miniature edition

Alright, let's break down the trailer's biggest talking points.

The teaser opens with Bowser painting before he's interrupted by Luigi and Mario. The key thing to note here is that Bowser isn't regular-sized. Remember, at the end of The Super Mario Bros. Movie, he was shrunk with a blue mini mushroom and imprisoned in a miniature version of his flying castle as punishment for his crimes.

Said castle is hiding a couple of secrets in plain sight, too. As Bowser walks up the spiral staircase at its center, we can see the piano he played while he belted out his popular 'Peaches' song in The Super Mario Bros. Movie.

A few seconds later when the camera zooms in on him looking for a particular painting to show to Mario and Luigi, another piece of art, which shows Bowser in his famous Koopa Clown Car, can so be seen.

Shooting for the stars

Once that extended clip ends, we're treated to a traditional trailer montage of more interesting reveals.

The next couple heavily feature Princess Peach. First, she's seen gazing in awe – alongside Mario – at the night sky as numerous shooting stars fly overhead. Next, Peach and Toad take a leap of faith onto a giant star shape, which catapults the pair into the air and sends them towards one of the Galaxy games' water worlds.

After a brief shot of Mario and Luigi riding dirt bikes in a desert location before an upside pyramid – is this the same one that appeared in Super Mario Odyssey? – looms into view, we're reunited with Peach as she battles a horde of Ninji in an unknown realm.

So, what's going on here? It appears Rosalina is the one who sends the star portal to Peach, with the likely aim of meeting her in order to reveal more about Peach's past to her. It's that, or it's a trap set by Bowser Jr. – more on him shortly – to coax Peach into leaving her castle so he can rescue his father.

Remember, Mario and Luigi struggled to beat Bowser until they used the Super Star. The chances of them beating Bowser Jr, especially with the item at the latter's disposal, then, are practically slim to none.

Painting a picture with multiple Mario games

At this point, it's abundantly clear that The Super Mario Galaxy Movie isn't only taking inspiration from its videogame series namesake. Indeed, the aforementioned Super Mario Odyssey reference, plus Super Mario Galaxy 1 and 2, aren't the only games that have influenced its development.

The magic paintbrush Bowser Jr. wields when he attacks Peach's castle to rescue his dad is the same one he has in Super Mario Sunshine. Meanwhile, his robotic voice, metallic gloves, and bandana face covering are all nods to his design in Super Mario Bros. Wonder.

I wonder what other Mario games will receive a hat tip and/or be referenced in the final product.

A cosmically badass entrance

The trailer's best bit is saved for last – i.e. Rosalina's introduction.

After peering out from behind a giant set of doors, we see Rosalina look up at a giant, three-legged robot. Mario fans will immediately recognize this as Megaleg, one of many bosses you battle in Super Mario Galaxy. Based on the clip we later see of Bowser Jr in some form of cockpit, I wouldn't be shocked if he's the one piloting it here.

Anyway, because Rosalina is such a badass, she makes light work of Megaleg with her star-shaped wand and star portal superpowers. Standing smugly as a ruined Megaleg crashes to the ground behind her, we hear the notes of one Gusty Garden Galaxy play out, too – yet another reference to the Galaxy videogame series.

The final clip of Rosalina, which is shown before Meledandri reveals Larson will voice her, sees the cosmic heroine sitting down to read a story to the fully-grown and baby Lumas under her care. It's a pretty funny scene, which sees a red Luma try and lead a chant to force Rosalina to tell them the story about "the plumbers" (i.e. Mario and Luigi) again.

Most interesting of all, though, is that this clip honors similar scenes in the Nintendo switch versions of the Galaxy games. Indeed, the Switch editions show Rosalina recounting events of how she became the Lumas' protector-in-chief. FYI, Rosalina's Storybook is getting a physical edition later this month, too, so pre-order your copy now!

That's a wrap

I thought I'd be needed for a lot longer than initially planned. But, with this month's Nintendo Direct running under 10 minutes, I'm pretty sure that's a wrap on this live blog.

Of course, if there are any other major announcements, major Easter egg or other secrets spotted by eagle-eyed fans, or other news and rumors concerning The Super Mario Galaxy Movie over the next few hours, you'll be able to read about them here.

For now, though, I'm signing off. Enjoy the rest of your day, everyone!

It is hard to overstate how magical the original Super Mario Galaxy felt when it launched on Wii back in 2007. Gravity-defying levels, soaring orchestrated music, and a sense of wonder that still stands out alongside the other staples in the platforming genre, almost 20 years later.

In celebration of the Italian plumber's 40th anniversary, Nintendo has re-released this classic alongside Super Mario Galaxy 2 on Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 in one enhanced package.

I was curious to see if these classics could shine just as brightly two decades later. The good news is they're as magical as ever, offering the same incredible journeys now with gorgeous visuals and the ability to play the sequel on the go for the first time ever.

Cosmic performance

On Switch 2, both games look fantastic. Docked, you get crisp 4K resolution that makes every planet sparkle. Handheld mode delivers smooth 1080p visuals that feel perfectly tuned for portable play.

I encountered no performance hiccups across either adventure. Frame rates remain locked, load times are snappy, and the vibrant art style still feels timeless. These games were stunning on Wii, but the extra fidelity here makes them genuinely pop on modern displays, like my Samsung S90D OLED TV.

It is worth noting that Super Mario Galaxy did appear on Switch once before, as part of the limited Super Mario 3D All-Stars collection. That version didn't reinvent the wheel, but it gave Switch users access to the game alongside Super Mario 64 and Super Mario Sunshine. Unfortunately, Nintendo no longer sells 3D All-Stars, an odd choice that has led to inflated prices on the second-hand market.

This new Switch 2 release offers the same core experience, now enhanced with sharper visuals, better performance, and bundled alongside Super Mario Galaxy 2 for the first time on modern hardware. For fans who missed out on 3D All-Stars, or who simply want the most definitive way to play, this collection is a clear step forward.

The sound design has also aged remarkably well. Koji Kondo’s orchestral score is given room to breathe with a cleaner mix, and it feels cinematic in a way that very few modern platformers achieve.

Hearing the soundtrack through my Sonos Arc Ultra is a reminder of just how ambitious Nintendo was with these titles and genuinely brought me back to my childhood.

In my time playing this game, I've been listening to both games' soundtracks on repeat as I work. In fact, as I write this review, I'm bopping my head to Gusty Garden Galaxy - gorgeous.

Galaxies intertwined

The core adventures remain intact, so if you've played through either game recently, you might not want to jump back in. Nintendo has a solution, however, offering both games as a complete package or as individual titles, perfect for those who luckily own the aforementioned 3D All-Stars.

Super Mario Galaxy's planet-hopping platforming eases players into its gravity-bending tricks, while Super Mario Galaxy 2 embraces creativity and challenge right from the start. Having them bundled together only highlights how well the sequel doubled down on experimentation.

Galaxy 2 adds Yoshi to the mix, alongside power-ups like the Cloud Flower and Rock Mushroom, each of which introduces new mechanics that feel clever even today. Returning to these levels reminded me how bold Nintendo was in the Wii era, layering complexity onto Mario without losing accessibility.

Nintendo has added some small but welcome touches for this new release. In Super Mario Galaxy, there is an additional chapter in Rosalina’s picture book that fleshes out her story in a way longtime fans will appreciate.

Super Mario Galaxy 2 goes a step further with a completely new tale in its own picture book, offering fresh lore and a reason to revisit the Comet Observatory between levels. These are not game-changing additions, but they add warmth and make this edition feel more than a simple upscaled port.

Wii controls reimagined

As someone who hasn't played 3D All-Stars in nearly five years, one of my biggest questions going back to these games was how well the controls would translate to modern hardware. The original games were designed with the Wii Remote and Nunchuk in mind, leaning heavily on motion controls.

On Switch 2, motion is still present with the Joy-Con, but it feels far less intrusive than it once did. You can play comfortably in handheld, docked, or with a Pro Controller, and I found myself gravitating to the latter for longer sessions.

All you need to do is hold down ZR and use the gyro in the Pro Controller to pick up Star Bits. In fact, I much prefer it to the Wii experience, but that might be my cynical 30-year-old brain that no longer appreciates a gimmick.

A trip down memory lane

The biggest compliment I can give Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 on Nintendo Switch 2 is that these adventures feel as fresh today as they did at launch in 2007 and 2020, respectively.

The level design is inventive and playful, constantly surprising you with new mechanics that rarely outstay their welcome. Few platformers manage to strike the same balance of accessibility and depth.

Nintendo has not tinkered much beyond resolution, performance, and the new story content, but that restraint works here. The design is so strong that all it needed was a modern coat of paint.

While part of me would have liked to see some new content like we've seen in the past with the addition of Bowser's Fury in the remaster of Super Mario 3D World, I've just enjoyed the simplicity of replaying these classics in 4k.

If you have never played Super Mario Galaxy or its sequel, this is the definitive way to experience them. And if you have, the combination of rock-solid performance, upgraded visuals, and new story content makes these experiences worth revisiting.

Few platformers feel as inventive, joyful, or downright magical as Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2. Nearly twenty years on, Mario’s journey through the stars is still a cosmic marvel.

Should you buy Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

Accessibility

Not much to write home about in terms of accessibility. Both games include an Assist Mode, which increases your life and bounces you back from falls.

Settings allow you to change the way you interact with the camera via thumbsticks and motion controls.

It would've been nice to see more additions to accessibility, but it appears as if Nintendo has kept even the settings faithful to the originals.

How I reviewed Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 Nintendo Switch 2 Edition

I played around 25 hours total, split between both games, and used my OLED TV for a full 4k experience. I played Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 Nintendo Switch 2 Edition in a mixture of handheld mode on the Nintendo Switch 2 itself and on one of the best OLED TVs, the Samsung Q90D, using the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller.

I had previously played both games on the Wii and had experienced Super Mario Galaxy on Nintendo Switch as part of Super Mario 3D All-Stars.

First reviewed September 2025

• Nintendo and Universal have confirmed the official title for their next Mario movie
• The film's name was announced during September 2025's Nintendo Direct
• Its initial cast and a teaser trailer were also revealed

Nintendo has officially confirmed The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is the title of its next animated film.

The sequel to Nintendo and Universal's multi-billion dollar-spinning first venture, aka The Super Mario Bros. Movie, was announced during September 2025's Nintendo Direct live show. The title unveiling was accompanied by a teaser trailer and initial cast reveal, plus a reminder that Mario's next big-screen adventure will arrive on April 3, 2026.

For those unaware, the title of Nintendo and Universal's latest silver-screen team-up takes its cue from the Japanese game maker's Super Mario Galaxy series. The sub-franchise's two entries see the legendary plumber take a trip into outer space after Bowser does what he does best: kidnapping Princess Peach and imprisoning her because, well, he's Bowser.

Speaking during this month's Nintendo Direct livestream, though, Chris Meledandri, founder of the animation company Illumination, which made The Super Mario Bros. Movie and will lead development on its sequel, said Galaxy's animated adaptation won't be a one-to-one translation of the story that plays out in either game.

"While the Super Mario Galaxy games are a core inspiration for our story, this next film holds surprises for fans of every Mario era," Meledandri teased. Interesting, very interesting...

As I mentioned earlier in this article, the initial cast of one of 2026's most anticipated new movies was also revealed, including many of the original film's voice actors.

Chris Pratt (Mario), Anya Taylor-Joy (Peach), Charlie Day (Luigi), Jack Black (Bowser), Keegan-Michael Key (Toad), and Kevin Michael Richardson (Kamek) were all confirmed to be returning. Yoshi is also set to feature in this flick after his appearance was teased in The Super Mario Bros. Movie's mid-credits scene, though a voice actor wasn't revealed for everyone's favorite green dinosaur. Rosalina, a major supporting cast member of the Galaxy games, is all but confirmed to appear by default, too.

Curiously, Seth Rogen, who voiced Donkey Kong in The Super Mario Bros. Movie, wasn't named alongside his forebear's co-stars. However, with rumors circulating that Nintendo's great ape is being lined up to star in his own solo animated movie, this is the likely reason for his absence in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie.

Elsewhere, Nintendo President Shigeru Miyamoto said The Super Mario Galaxy Movie will headline Mario's 40th anniversary celebrations, which will run throughout 2026. Hopefully, we won't have to wait until the turn of the year for an actual trailer.

Until then, see what I thought of the last film via my The Super Mario Bros. Movie review and then read up on how The Super Mario Bros. Movie aimed to lay Nintendo's cinematic demons to rest.

The Super Mario Bros Movie is available to stream right now on Prime Video (US) and Paramount+ (Australia). UK viewers can rent or buy it on various digital stores, including Amazon Video, Apple TV, Microsoft, and YouTube.

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I was so excited for the Nintendo Switch 2 - in fact, I'm still excited for the Nintendo Switch 2 - but yet I can't help but feel just a little bit empty.

Following on from yesterday's Nintendo Direct, I was lucky enough to snag a Nintendo Switch 2 and Mario Kart World Bundle preorder this week at a UK retailer.

For previous console launches, I'd have felt giddy at the upcoming arrival of a new toy, but this time I just kind of feel... fine?

It's not because I'm not excited to play a new Forza Horizon-inspired Mario Kart or revisit some of the best Nintendo Switch games with enhanced graphics like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom in 4K resolution (or perhaps 1440p) at 60 frames per second, but because my new Switch is lacking something very specific: A new single-player experience on launch day, and an Italian plumber one at that.

Opportunities came and went

Depending on who you ask Super Mario Odyssey is arguably the best game on Nintendo Switch. Ask me, and I'd probably say it's one of my favorites alongside Breath of the Wild.

As Nintendo's event started yesterday, I was poised for the first proper 3D Mario since 2017's Odyssey. Since then we've had a remaster of Super Mario 3D World which added Bowser's Fury (the closest thing to a new 3D Mario we've seen since) and new 2D Mario experiences like Super Mario Bros. Wonder.

But still, eight years on and we've not got a direct sequel to Mario Odyssey or just the next in the long line of incredible 3D Mario games.

Unfortunately during the Nintendo event, opportunities came and went where Nintendo opted to prioritize other IPs instead of its most famous platforming protagonist.

Don't get me wrong, I understand that Mario Kart World is a huge release, but in my opinion, Nintendo's best experiences are single player and while replaying the Switch's Zelda games with upgraded graphics on day one will feel amazing, it won't be new.

Towards the end of the Nintendo Direct, after we'd seen all the new hardware, the company wowed fans with three back-to-back game reveals.

The first, which provided genuine shock and awe, was the announcement of a new and exclusive FromSoftware game that looks like a spiritual successor to Bloodborne called The Duskbloods.

Next, a star shot onto the screen and I thought we were about to be graced by the arrival of Super Mario Galaxy 3. Instead, it was a reveal for Kirby Air Riders, a successor to the GameCube game, Kirby Air Ride. But do you need another arcade racer in the same year as a new Mario Kart?

Finally, just to get my hopes up one last time, Nintendo closed the show with the reveal of Donkey Kong Bananza, the first 3D Donkey Kong game since 1999.

Don't get me wrong, the game looks awesome, but not only does it release on July 17, a month on from the Switch 2's arrival, but it also just makes me want Super Mario Odyssey 2.

Nintendo, where's my Mario?

Most people will be very content with the Nintendo Switch 2's first six months on the market. By the end of 2025, we'll have games ranging from Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza to Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokemon Legends: Z-A.

That's a stellar lineup for the first year of a console, let alone half. But Mario is Nintendo, and without a new 3D adventure it makes the Nintendo Switch 2 launch feel lukewarm.

I've come to terms with the lack of Mario Odyssey 2 in 2025, but please Nintendo, make sure 2026 has a new 3D Mario adventure.

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• The Switch 2 launching with a Mario Kart game 'is very unlike Nintendo' compared to the original Switch releasing with Breath of the Wild, says former marketing leads: 'That's what's gonna make you want to buy the new hardware'

• A new Nintendo Switch OLED bundle is coming very soon
• It features Super Mario Bros. Wonder and a Nintendo Switch Online subscription
• It's expected to launch in early March, ahead of Mario Day

The Switch 2 might be out this year, but did you think that'd stop Nintendo from releasing yet another Switch OLED bundle? Not likely.

Spotted by Nintendo Life, the new Nintendo Switch OLED bundle packs in a digital copy of Super Mario Bros. Wonder as well as three months' worth of Nintendo Switch Online subscription time. Nothing out of the ordinary for a Switch OLED bundle, then, and it's available to pre-order at Best Buy for $349.99.

It appears that this Nintendo Switch OLED bundle is set to launch on March 1, but the Best Buy store page is currently saying it'll ship as early as February 26. Of course, this may differ depending on which part of the US or Canada you find yourself in.

You might also wonder (hehe) why a new Nintendo Switch OLED bundle is launching, especially as the Nintendo Switch 2 is likely just a few months away? Well, it's not an uncommon practice for console makers to create new bundles to shift leftover stock. Plus, with Nintendo recently passing the 150 million units mark for the entire Switch family, it seems there's plenty of lemon still left to squeeze.

If you've yet to jump aboard the Switch train and don't really feel like waiting for the next console, this is still an excellent bundle to grab. Super Mario Bros. Wonder is easily one of the best Nintendo Switch games. A beautiful and creative side-scroller, its multiplayer support also benefits from the two Joy-Con controllers you're getting in the box.

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Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe: One-minute review

The best thing I can say about the Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe is that it’ll make a good gift for younger gamers, especially if they’re into racing games on the Nintendo Switch. As a budget-friendly wheel, it performs admirably, even if it does lack features compared to many of the best racing wheels out there. Still, as a kid-friendly racing wheel, it more than gets the job done.

But is it worth considering for those looking for a new racing wheel in general? Well, its relatively low price tag makes it a decent option for first-time buyers. And with it being compatible with PC as well as Nintendo Switch, you certainly won’t be lacking in options for games.

If you’re okay with the bold Mario aesthetic (which I actually think is quite nice), you will have to contend with a relative lack of features. Build quality really takes a hit here for both the wheelbase and pedals - both certainly lacking compared to pricier wheels. There’s no force feedback to speak of, either, which may disappoint those looking for a more immersive racing experience. It does perform decently with the best racing games, but a limited 270-degree turning angle makes it somewhat ill-suited for serious racing sims.

To top it all off, even younger players may get frustrated with the Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe, as it’s simply unsuitable for play with Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. The wheel just doesn’t offer the pin-sharp responsiveness needed for such a fast-paced kart racer, and I found myself pining for one of the best Nintendo Switch controllers in its place.

Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe: Price and availability

• $109.99 / £89.99
• Definitely one of the more affordable racing wheel options on the market
• A budget-friendly rate comparable to the Hori Apex racing wheel

The Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe’s $109.99 / £89.99 retail price is actually pretty fair for what you’re getting. It’s comparable to Hori’s own Apex wheel ($119.99 / £99.99). But as Nintendo Switch-compatible wheels go, you’re unlikely to find one as cheap as this without seriously losing worthwhile features.

Compared to pricier options like the Logitech G923 and Thrustmaster T300RS GT Edition, you are going to be getting a stripped-back experience here. Hori’s Mario Kart wheel is not compatible with PlayStation or Xbox systems, nor does it have desirable features like force feedback or high rotation.

Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe: Specs

Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe: Design and features

• Nice Mario-themed look
• Overall cheap-feeling build
• Optional suction cups aren’t very effective

The Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe’s highlight design aspect is its overall look. Having been officially licensed by Nintendo, it bears the iconic Mario ‘M’ in the center of the wheel. The steering wheel and base both have a really tasteful red-on-black paint job that looks surprisingly smart and professional for a product primarily aimed at younger audiences.

The wheel is quite robust in terms of buttons, too. You’re getting almost a full suite here, with a d-pad, face buttons, ZL and ZR buttons as well as a pair of paddles primarily used for gear shifting.

The center of the wheel also houses the Start, Select, and Home buttons as well as a Capture button for screenshots, which is a very welcome and quite uncommon feature for racing wheels in general. A handy ‘Assign’ button also lets you map custom inputs on the fly.

It’s a shame that overall build quality is quite lacking, then, but this is to be expected given the relatively low price tag. While the wheel itself is adequate, the wheelbase is quite light and hollow-feeling, which ultimately makes weighing it down on a flat surface oddly difficult.

The included pedals are broadly similar to the ones included with the Hori Apex; they’re very simple and similarly cheap-feeling. If not for the flip-out footrest, the pedal base would be prone to shifting under your weight.

You’ve got two options for clamping the wheel to a flat surface. A more traditional clamp and screw are included, and these work fine if you’re going to make the wheel part of a more long-term setup.

The five included suction cups, on the other hand, simply don’t get the job done. These lock into place via slots at the bottom of the base and a twist of each is meant to secure them on a flat surface without the use of a clamp. However, they were still extremely slippery and offered little purchase for the surfaces I tested on.

You’re better off opting for the clamp option, then, as I found the suction cups to be practically useless and often dislodged themselves from their slots, despite my best efforts to lock them into place.

Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe: Performance

• Ironically not well-suited for Mario Kart
• Performs adequately on PC via XInput
• On-board buttons are perfectly responsive

If you’re just looking for a good, cheap wheel that gets the job done on PC, then the Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe definitely delivers on that front. The racing experience is by no means incredible - with a complete lack of force feedback and a relatively limited 270-degree turning radius - but it’s still perfectly serviceable.

I tested the wheel out on racing games that are lighter on sim elements like Tokyo Xtreme Racer and Forza Horizon 5, and I found it to be a great fit for them. It does start to show its limitations with more simulation-heavy fare like Assetto Corsa EVO, however, where I found I had to play with a variety of assists turned on to aid with the wheels stripped back performance.

While competent on PC, then, I can’t really say the same for the wheel’s namesake. It’s just not very well suited to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on Nintendo Switch. Fortunately, the wheel is compatible with the game out of the box, with no control fiddling necessary. However, the simple act of turning and drifting just didn’t feel right in the fast-paced kart racer. Stacked up against a Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, Hori’s wheel just doesn’t have the quick responsiveness necessary to drive well in 150cc mode.

It is compatible with a wide variety of Switch racing games, though. So, if you own titles like Gear Club Unlimited or Grid Autosport, you might get more mileage out of it as a console wheel with these racers instead.

Should I buy the Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

Also consider...

If the Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe isn’t quite meeting your expectations or preferences, you may want to consider these alternatives instead.

How I tested the Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe

• Tested for one week
• Tested across Nintendo Switch and PC
• Played a variety of racing games

I tested the Hori Mario Kart Racing Wheel Pro Deluxe over the course of about a week, getting to grips with the wheel and its included pedals across a wide variety of racing games. I covered racers of all kinds, from arcade-like titles including Tokyo Xtreme Racer and Forza Horizon 5 to more simulation-heavy games like Assetto Corsa EVO and Forza Motorsport. I found it to be a better fit for less realistic racers overall.

I can’t say the same, specifically, for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and it’s a shame the wheel wasn’t a good fit for its targeted game. It’s no fault of the wheel, really, as the popular kart racer is just not designed with racing wheels in mind. But it’s definitely something to keep in mind if you’re buying for a younger gamer.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed January 2025

Sound the Alarmo! The Nintendo Switch 2 has finally emerged from the shadows, with Nintendo posting a surprise reveal trailer earlier this week on January 16.

Despite lasting just two minutes and 22 seconds (I see what you did there, Nintendo), there were plenty of revelations about the upcoming system to get excited about. Some line up perfectly with my predictions and previous Nintendo Switch 2 leaks, but there were still plenty of surprises.

If you managed to miss the reveal or just want a quick little recap, I've got you covered. Here are the five biggest takeaways from the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal. Alternatively, you can watch our latest YouTube video, where myself and some colleagues react to the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal.

1. The Nintendo Switch 2 is significantly larger

One of the first things made apparent in the reveal trailer is the fact that the Nintendo Switch 2 is significantly larger than the original Nintendo Switch. We see not only a larger tablet portion, but bigger Joy-Con controllers too.

Nintendo hasn't provided any official measurements yet, though that hasn't stopped me from doing some detective work. One shot in the trailer shows the old and new consoles side by side, so I've measured it.

The image of the Nintendo Switch comes in at 534 pixels wide and 226 pixels tall. The Nintendo Switch 2 is then 607 pixels wide and 258 pixels tall. Assuming that both images are the same scale, that equates to a 13.7% increase in width and a 14.2% increase in height.

We know that the original Nintendo Switch is 9.4 in / 238 mm wide and 4.01 in / 102 mm tall in the real world. Therefore, I estimate that the Nintendo Switch 2 is about in 10.7 in / 270.6mm wide and / 4.6 in / 116.5 mm tall - that's pretty hefty!

2. There's a mysterious new button

The button layout of the Nintendo Switch 2 doesn't look too different from that of the Nintendo Switch, but a mysterious new input is visible in the trailer.

Positioned below the home button on the right Joy-Con, it looks completely blank. My theory is that Nintendo is hiding what is actually written on the input so as to not give too much away this early, but exactly what it could be for is anybody's guess.

New social features in its software are a likely answer, but we'll have to wait and see.

3. The new kickstand looks way better

One thing that we do know for sure, at least, is that we won't have to suffer through the puny, ineffective kickstand of the original Nintendo Switch any longer.

The U-shaped stand shown off in the trailer looks like an absolutely massive upgrade, taking the stability of the big chunky stand added to the Nintendo Switch OLED and slimming it down into something much more sleek.

If you're somebody who loves diving into titles with friends in tabletop mode, this upgrade is going to be a game changer.

4. Most of your old games will still work

I was a little worried that I would have to buy all of my favorite Nintendo Switch games for a second time through ports or remasters on the Nintendo Switch. Luckily, that fear has been been put to bed... for the most part.

In plain and simple language, Nintendo stated that the Nintendo Switch 2 will be compatible with both physical and digital Nintendo Switch software. There is a caveat, though, as "certain Nintendo Switch games may not be supported or fully compatible."

My guess is that this is referring to a small handful of more experimental titles that relied on external accessories. Ring Fit Adventure, which requires a huge ring-shaped peripheral could be one such example, or the cardboard construction kit that is Nintendo Labo.

My guess is that the bigger Joy-Con Controllers simply won't fit in the required gear, limiting your ability to play those games.

5. A new Mario Kart is on the way

One thing that was sorely missing from the reveal trailer was a barrage of upcoming games. Still, we did at least see one potential new title and it's going to be huge for Nintendo fans.

A new Mario Kart is finally on the way a decade of waiting (or just six years if you count the mobile Mario Kart Tour as a proper entry). It looks absolutely stunning too, with redesigned characters and expressive animations.

We see a few shots of what looks like a gigantic race track and markings for up to 24 racers too, so I wouldn't be surprised if this next instalment goes big and delivers a scale that we simply haven't seen from the franchise before.

6. Mouse-like controls were teased

This one is a little less certain, but certainly promising. For weeks, leaks have hinted that the Nintendo Switch 2 will feature a mouse-like control scheme, letting you position the Joy-Con Controllers on the side to interact with the screen via new optical sensors.

Sadly this wasn't outright confirmed by the trailer, but Nintendo is definitely hinting at it. The new Joy-Con are shown racing around on their sides, attached to a cool grip accessory with a cord that waves around almost like a mouse's tail.

Could this be Nintendo's next big gimmick? I think it's really likely to happen.

See it for yourself

The reveal trailer also shed light on a few other interesting tidbits, like the system's new logo and much slicker looking dock. We even see our first Nintendo Switch 2 accessory, an updated version of the classic Joy-Con grip.

Check out the trailer for yourself and drop your thoughts, or anything that you think I've missed, in the comments.

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It's finally begun. The Nintendo Switch 2 has been officially revealed, and we've been keeping you abreast of any and all updates in our Nintendo Switch 2 live coverage all day.

Now what stood out to me most in the official Nintendo Switch 2 reveal trailer - aside from the hardware itself of course - was the unveiling of a brand new Mario Kart game. And no, it doesn't look like another port of Mario Kart 8, thank heavens.

As a Mario Kart superfan, I've spent the last hour poring over the gameplay footage frame by frame, and I've come away with a surprising amount of information. Nothing's set in stone until we get a full reveal of course, but there's plenty here already to speculate on how the new Mario Kart game will shake up the series formula.

Up to 24 racers on a circuit?

The very first shot we get of the new Mario Kart game is an overhead look at a brand new course: Mario Bros. Circuit. We also see that the start line has a total of 24 race start positions marked onto the track.

While this could of course be nothing more than a scenery element, having 24 racers on any given track would double the maximum amount from Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Not only that, it'd be a great showcase of the Nintendo Switch 2's increase in power and performance.

It's a little hard to make out how many racers are on track in the gameplay footage, but in the very final frame - where the camera pans back to reveal a track with exceptional breadth and draw distance - we can make out around 16 karts racing at the same time. I'm pretty confident, then, that the new Mario Kart game will be a favorite among Nintendo Switch Online subscribers.

Everyone is here, and they're looking very retro

There appears to be a good mix of familiar faces in the new Mario Kart game that we can play as. In the initial shot, we can see Mario and Luigi alongside Bowser, Peach, Yoshi, Toad, Daisy, Rosalina, Donkey Kong, Wario, Koopa Troopa and Pauline. Elsewhere, we catch glimpses of Waluigi, Baby Luigi and Shy Guy.

What's more notable is a significant shift in art style. Both characters and karts are noticeably, well, rounder in design, looking quite a lot like their original Super Mario Kart renditions on the SNES. I'm a big fan of this change as I did feel there wasn't much to distinguish their Mario Kart 8 Deluxe models from other entries like Mario Party and the like.

Absolutely massive tracks

Mario Kart 7 introduced gliding and underwater racing to the series, while Mario Kart 8 went with anti-gravity. On that note, we may already know this new Mario Kart game's unique gimmick: utterly enormous circuits.

This is most evident in the final frames of the reveal, where we see a huge American-style highway complete with a Yoshi-themed burger joint off to the side. The track is incredibly wide and stretches off into the far distance. The draw distance here is unlike anything we've had in previous entries.

You can just about make out a long row of item boxes in the distance, too, as well as a glowing yellow pickup next to that Yoshi burger joint. I'm not sure what this could be; potentially a super speed power-up or maybe even some kind of fuel mechanic where you'll need to keep your kart topped up in order to race as efficiently as possible.

A significant visual upgrade?

At first glance, this new Mario Kart doesn't look like a massive jump in graphical fidelity from Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. But upon closer inspection, this new game seems to be offering much more in terms of detail.

Surface textures such as the road and sand are rich in detail here, and there's a noticeable uptick in trackside objects and scenery. I've already mentioned the colossal draw distance, too, which is probably the most notable step up from previous games.

It all points to Nintendo Switch 2 being comfortably more powerful than its predecessor. If not in raw graphical power, then at least in overall performance and optimization.

So what's next?

We are likely to learn more about the new Mario Kart game at the next Nintendo Direct presentation. That's happening on April 2, 2025, and will be focused on the Nintendo Switch 2.

Furthermore, Nintendo will be hosting Switch 2 Experience events across the world's major cities between April and June. I find it very likely that this new Mario Kart game will be playable in some capacity. And we'll be looking at bringing you all the latest news and updates as they happen.

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It's finally happened! The Nintendo Switch 2 has been unveiled and, yes that is actually what it's called.

If you're like me, you've already rushed to the official Nintendo YouTube channel to absorb all that upcoming console goodness by getting your first look at its design.

Not seen it yet? Check out the official trailer below or head over to our Nintendo Switch 2 live page for up-to-the-minute news.

If you've been following the latest leaks and rumors, the design shown off here probably won't come as much of a surprise. As I predicted just yesterday, the Nintendo Switch 2 comes in a rather swish black, orange, and blue colorway.

It's also compatible with original Nintendo Switch software, though the trailer does note that some "games may not be supported on or fully compatible" with the new machine.

I also suspected that the Nintendo Switch 2 trailer could provide our first look at some upcoming software, even suggesting a new Mario Kart game. Now, lo and behold it seems as though a new Mario Kart has been shown.

At about the 1 minute 40 mark, we see some Mario Kart gameplay that looks quite similar to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. If you pay careful attention, however, it's obvious that the footage is using new character models and appears to be taking place on a new track.

The animations of the racers look incredibly expressive and the detail in the world is absolutely top-notch.

This could very well be our first look at Mario Kart 9; well, technically Mario Kart 10 if you count Mario Kart Tour as a full instalment. Of course, it's possible that this is just footage created to show off the console's graphically capabilities but, given the fact that Mario Kart 8 Deluxe was first shown in the original Nintendo Switch reveal, I would be shocked if this wasn't a full game.

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Mario & Luigi: Brothership is an excellent return to Nintendo’s otherwise languishing role-playing game (RPG) spin-off series, packed chock-full of charm, wit, and whimsy, plus pleasingly detailed combat mechanics that will deliver hours of fun.

In their latest gander, the mustachio'd brothers are whisked away to the land of Concordia and on a quest to reunite its fragmented lands following the destruction of the Unitree that once connected them. It’s a tale with a strong narrative theme; that the bonds between friends, family, and even foes have innate power. In classic Nintendo style, every possible aspect of the game centers itself around its morals to charming effect.

To go with its delightful tone is a robust combat system, largely following suit of its series predecessors but with the added flair of Luigi Logic, new Bros Attacks, and a power-up system called Plugs. It’s silly and fun, offering a moderate challenge as you time your attacks and counters between the two brothers. However, later in the game, the sheer number of enemies can become a bit repetitive, and you’ll likely end up skipping your fair share of battles. Overall, though, it’s very rewarding, and there’s a great variety of enemies and interesting bosses to tackle, making it a standout Nintendo Switch game of 2024.

However, like other recent releases such as The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, Brothership also suffers from occasional performance issues. These are particularly prevalent when there are several enemies on screen or heavy particle effects, affecting even the island navigation map later in the game when more areas are unlocked.

It’s an unfortunate issue, as the game is so beautifully visualized that you want to lavish on every detail. The new 3D sprites for its cast of characters are a welcome visual upgrade, adding new depth of emotion and gesture both in and out of combat. Its lush and well-detailed overworld offers a reasonable amount of exploration, though some of the earlier levels feel underdeveloped when you revisit them towards the end of the game.

While it’s not exactly a contender for game of the year, I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Brothership. The game is great fun, but it’s also warm and inviting, blending some of the franchise's most beloved Mushroom Kingdom friends and foes with charming new Concordian companions to create a rich world filled with love and connection. There’s a real resonance in how Mario & Luigi: Brothership delivers its moral lesson, but entwined with bonny Nintendo flair and slapstick nonsense that makes the game feel truly special.

You can make me whole again

Once transported to Concordia, Mario and Luigi and their new guides Connie and Snoutlet sail the open seas in search of fragmented islands from the former continent of Concordia with a mission to reconnect them to the new Unitree. Each island bears a distinctive theme; from the dance and rhythm-crazed populace of Twistee Island to the rival fire and ice villages of Heatfreeze Island and the desert dwellers of Allsand Island.

The game’s main hub, Shipshape Island, also teems with life, populated by side characters like three gossipy hens that’ll give you clues for side quests as well as equipment and resource shops for stocking up between islands. Along the way, the crew of adventurers grows to welcome a plethora of new characters, with my personal favorite being a band of kids going by the moniker of the IDLE group. As with all of the new companions, Brothership relishes in exploring the bonds they share and create, and there’s a wealth of relations explored through the lens of Concordia. From parental to sibling, found family and friendship to rivalry, and even bonds of love, Nintendo deftly toes the line of cheesiness, keeping the game firmly in the realm of fuzzy feelings.

It’s not just Concordians that decorate the storyline; throughout the game, you’ll encounter familiar faces from the Mushroom Kingdom, from predictable appearances like Princess Peach, Starlow, and Bowser to welcome surprises like Birdo and even a first-time Mario & Luigi appearance for Dorrie.

This does, however, mean the game can be pretty wordy, often splicing the action with extended character development and conversation that can make the game drag a little at times. In saying that, I did find it hard to breeze through some of the dialogue where I truly enjoyed watching the story play out, especially thanks to its quirky comedy and hyperanimated style. The volume of characters also means there’s a little pressure on some of the characters to condense their personality. Starlow, for example, is a little subdued compared to previous entries in the series, especially when it comes to her love-hate relationship with Luigi.

Land, Ho!

The main quest line is pretty extensive, totaling around 40 hours if you skip every side quest, based on my total game time which was 50 hours after completing a vast majority of optional quests. Occasionally, there are split decisions thrown into the narrative that slightly alter the means or order of storyline progression, but overall it’s pretty linear.

Using Shipshape Island, Mario and Luigi navigate through channels across the oceans of Concordia to scope out the dispersed islands and connect them to the Unitree. The duo then unceremoniously launch themselves upon these islands’ shores, punctuated by an excellent running gag of Luigi never quite sticking the landing, before venturing to solve an ongoing issue for the island’s population or rescue missing Concordians.

Exploring each island is fun, and the game’s new Bros Moves add new dimensions to exploration, especially when boosted later in the game. The first move unlocked, UF-Bro, is easily my favorite; it’s ridiculous but comes in pretty handy and allows for creative level design. There are some pacing issues in level development, however, and it's especially noticeable later in the game when you hop between more complex levels and the fairly basic initial islands. Plus, a lot of time is spent running around thanks to the sparsity of teleportation pipes and very simple maps.

With the main quest completed and balance restored, the pair must activate each island's lighthouse, thus tethering the entire land mass to Shipshape Island. Especially towards the end of the game, it’s delightfully silly to see Shipshape lug around an entire continents-worth of islands.

There’s also a wealth of side quests to enjoy, an abundance of puzzles, a respectable level of collect-a-thon objectives, and bundles of items and equipment to hoard. Many quests see the mustachio’d bros reconnect or resolve issues between loved ones, with progressively more memorable and interesting missions as the game develops. Some quests need to be completed before the main story progresses, unlocking fun easter egg interactions and unique items that make them feel worthwhile.

Occasionally, you even get the opportunity to remote-control Luigi, either by stationing him strategically while using Mario to move around the level or even fully controlling him - though there are only a handful of moments where you get full Luigi action. The main mechanic for giving Luigi some autonomy is Luigi Logic, which triggers when there’s an interactive object or puzzle mechanic he can help with. Broadly, it’s great fun, and can also save time when it comes to farming coins and items, but there are quite a few times when Luigi will get left behind off-screen, which causes Mario to stop in his tracks, turn about-face, and find his stranded sibling. It’s not frequent, but the separation anxiety can be a bit irritating at times.

Otherwise, the main areas to explore are in the game’s dungeons; the Great Lighthouses, and later in the game, various enemy strongholds. The level design for dungeons is pretty consistently well-balanced throughout the game, offering a decent level of challenge and platforming fun while still incorporating a healthy dosage of combat opportunities; though perhaps a little too healthy in places.

Timing is everything

Combat in Mario & Luigi: Brothership is fun and engaging, leveraging the same timed attack and counter mechanic as previous games in the series with the added twist of power-up Plugs and Luigi’s Logic as well as inventive new Bros Attacks to mix things up.

Plugs offer a solid level of variety and dynamic gameplay to battles and become pretty much essential as the baddies scale. Certain combos create enhanced attack, defense, and support abilities during combat, which you can bolster further with clever choices in equipment and leveling bonuses - though you can easily make most compositions work if your timing is solid and your stats are balanced.

Some of the Bros Attacks are more satisfying than others. For example, in Flash Clock, Mario & Luigi dash across a monochrome battlefield where time stands still, taking turns to wallop the enemy if you hit their corresponding attack buttons in good time. That’s eminently more engaging than Mix Tornado, in which you frantically lob orbs of Mario’s fireballs and Luigi’s ice into a spinning tornado in the hopes you complete it enough to whip the enemy into a frenzy.

Every story must have a villain, but Mario & Luigi: Brothership has several; the most prominent of which being Bowser and the mysterious Zokket. We all know and love Bowser and his modus operandi, and Brothership conveys it with wonderful whimsy. Zokket’s forces, however, are slightly more sinister.

Co-captained by Ecks, Ten, and Shun (AKA the Extension Corps), Zokket’s army is on a quest to harvest and spread ‘Glohm’ throughout Concordia and sever the connections between its denizens. Both monsters and the Mario brothers alike can be inflicted by this gloom, which is designed much like Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild’s malice. In battle, it serves as a new gameplay element that prevents the infected brothers from working together on high-damage attacks and Bros Attacks.

There’s a wide range of enemies in the game, with each offering a fairly distinct move set, and the bosses are pretty fun across the board. The slapstick style and expressive animations keep combat light and fun, but later in the game, the grind becomes a little excessive. Especially as I’d leveled well, I ended up skipping a fair few encounters, even with newer enemies I hadn’t yet tired of, but I still enjoyed pretty much all of the key boss fights.

Bursting with life - literally

While the character design maintains the stylistic simplicity of the wider Mario universe, its aesthetic value is high, which really brings the Mario & Luigi franchise into the modern era of gaming following the ten years of its absence.

Brothership brings the world of Concordia to life with exuberant color and sound. It’s bright, well-stylized, and lush, and the 3D sprites massively expand the depth of emotion and motion possible for the various characters. Combat animations are punchy and energizing, and the music perfectly accents the on-screen action to keep you locked in.

That does mean, however, that it’s even more of a disappointment to see frame rate drops, which get progressively worse as the game progresses. Towards the end of the game, even the island navigation screen drops frames significantly due to the volume of cubic sparkle effects on screen, and some of the wonderfully animated cutscenes heavily feature the same particle effects and thus suffer the same fate.

When there are many enemies on screen or a series of consecutive graphically intense attacks, combat can also suffer - which is less than ideal when there are timed attacks to tackle. I didn’t experience an unforgivable level of performance issues, and hopefully, at least some of these can be fixed in a later patch. Still, it’s always disappointing to see, especially when the game is so lovely to look at.

Otherwise, animations are broadly smooth. I gladly sacrificed a few turns and counters during combat to enjoy every detail of enemy attack animations, and the cutscenes are just delightful. I even nearly shed a tear during a few, though I’m especially soppy when it comes to a good tear-jerker.

Should I play Mario & Luigi: Brothership?

Play it if…

Don’t play it if…

Accessibility

There are no dedicated accessibility settings on Mario & Luigi: Brothership. There’s one difficulty setting, but if you lose a combat or time-based mini-game a few times, you’re offered an easy mode to help you overcome the challenge. This is particularly disappointing when combat is so heavily based on timed and held button inputs, and where there are multiple times that visual cues are delivered by color. Players with congenital red-green color blindness, in particular, would have great difficulty in performing many Bros Attacks and puzzles.

How I reviewed Mario & Luigi: Brothership

I played over 40 hours of Mario & Luigi: Brothership on Nintendo Switch OLED. During that time I completed the main story and played in a combination of both handheld and docked mode. While docked, I played on a 1080p monitor and used a Nintendo Switch Pro Controller. In handheld mode, I played using the standard Joy-Con controls.

To draw comparisons, I've reflected on my experience with other series entries such as Mario & Luigi: Dream Team and Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story as well as other turn-based RPGs like Octopath Traveller, alongside different games from the wider Mario franchise such as Super Mario: Odyssey.

First reviewed November 2024.

The once-unknown developer behind Mario & Luigi: Brothership has been revealed.

That's according to 'Nintendeal' over on X / Twitter, who shared a screenshot showing the intellectual property information of the game, which was discovered after some players received their physical copy early, ahead of its November 7 launch.

The information provided seems to confirm that the developer of the upcoming Nintendo Switch game is Acquire, the studio behind the critically acclaimed Octopath Traveler and Octopath Traveler 2.

It's unclear why Nintendo has kept its co-developer of Brothership under wraps, but the reveal is certainly a surprise to some.

"Well that's a curveball. A good curveball though," said one user on Reddit. "Don't think Acquire was on anybody's radar as a possibility, but they sure know how to make an RPG [role-playing game]."

"A pleasant surprise, they definitely know how to make good RPGs," said another Redditor.

Mario & Luigi: Brothership was announced this summer and is the first new entry in the series in almost nine years. After the series' original developer Alpha Dream went bankrupt in 2019, there have been discussions about who the new developer could be.

Brothership will see the iconic, titular brothers return in an all-new platforming adventure featuring turn-based combat, and both side-scrolling and vertical challenges as they explore a number of islands.

During the game's unveiling, Nintendo executive Shinya Takahashi called the game a "seafaring adventure", which will include "evolved Bros moves" between Mario and Luigi.

TechRadar had the chance to preview Mario & Luigi: Brothership at an event hosted by Nintendo earlier this month. After playing just over an hour of the game, Managing Editor Josephine Watson called it "a glorious return to form for a beloved series", while combat "feels finessed".

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With the holidays fast approaching, you can’t really go wrong with a new Mario Party game as the best way to bring people together or drive each other crazy. Super Mario Party Jamboree is even more special as the third entry on the Nintendo Switch, which feels like a big blowout for both the series and the console, as it takes the best of everything to make it the Mario Party with the biggest and most varied amount of content for every type of player.

Motion controls are back for those who enjoyed them in Super Mario Party, though if you didn’t you can opt out as they only take up a small portion of the more than 110 minigames in Jamboree. There are even more options for online multiplayer, including two modes made exclusively for online play (or AI if matchmaking becomes an issue). 

Minimayhem

For newcomers, the Switch game Super Mario Party Jamboree is essentially an interactive board game where up to four players roll (or rather bump) dice to move across a range of lovingly designed Mario-themed boards, competing to win coins and in turn obtain stars to come out on top. That’s the civil description, as of course it also involves a lot of shenanigans with minigames where you’re actively screwing over your rivals to bag the most coins or having to work together in 2v2 or 3v1 minigames.

Those underhanded tactics, often based on luck, also play out on the board themselves, each with different mechanics and paths to take. For example, on Goomba Lagoon, the changing tide might find you stranded and going around in circles for a couple of turns, and while the star is always at the same location in Mario’s Rainbow Castle, you can flip the rules so that your rival has the misfortune of collecting a fake star instead. Nothing however is quite as evil as getting a Boo to steal stars for you.

This level of unpredictability is, much like the controversial blue shell in Mario Kart, Nintendo’s unique brand of leveling the playing field, so that no matter how good or bad you think you are at Mario Party, everyone’s got a chance to be a superstar. Even then, minigames, from the super-short item minigames to the gauntlets required to obtain an ally character who can also double your rewards, are simple and intuitive enough for players of all skill levels to understand, while by default you can practice as long as they like until everyone’s ready to play the minigame for real.

Suffice to say that much of what makes Mario Party work so well is being able to play together, so I found the board mechanics and watching everyone to have their turn tedious when just playing solo with AI players, even with the option to speed up some animations. Boards can be played online too, and there are some charming emotes you can use, which have also been designed so that trolls can’t spam them repeatedly, but even post-pandemic, it’s a poor substitute to being in the same room. If you are going to play online, then I can only recommend setting up a group with friends instead of random matchmaking and to also have your own separate voice chat group rather than the Switch Online app. 

Don't play alone

While the main attraction, boards are just one aspect of Super Mario Party Jamboree, as you can traverse this bountiful party resort, reminiscent of Wii Sports Resort’s Wuhu Island, and pick a range of other modes, while the Party Plaza hub also contains what you could call the game’s single-player campaign; Party-Planner Trek.

It’s the weakest element of the package, since playing Mario Party by yourself can feel like a drag outside of minigames. It’s all the more peculiar that it guts the boards of their inventive mechanics as you simply move across them freely while ticking off a series of mundane fetch quests to earn mini-stars. It may be a short campaign but I still resented playing this mode in order to rank up with achievements and unlock game content. Your mileage may vary with unlockables, but I found it frustrating that the game’s newest features, such as new playable characters Pauline and Ninji, require jumping through a bunch of hoops first. 

Faring better is side content that cuts out the futz and focuses on minigames. Minigame Bay is the perfect pitstop for short burst sessions, whether you want to play whichever of the more than 110 minigames available or jump into the Daily Challenge, with a selection of minigames grouped into themes. I was however most taken by the bespoke motion-themed islands, such as Toad’s Item Factory, a series of puzzle challenges as players guide balls around to a goal using motion-controlled platforms and blocks, and which feels fun even when soloing. 

For the times when getting people together is impossible, there are also online-specific modes. Compared to the stop-start of co-op-based Bowser Kaboomb Squad, the 20-player Koopathlon has a peculiar charm to it as you’re competing against other players but almost always in parallel. Each minigame you’re thrown into gives you the chance to collect as many coins, which in turn keeps your character moving along a racetrack that’s also visible to the right of the screen. It’s a refreshing mode in a post-Fall Guys world and one that may have the most staying power, given its also button-only minigames make it easy to jump into for a quick handheld session. 

Accessibility

Super Mario Party Jamboree doesn’t have accessibility settings as such but you’ll have the option to toggle various settings before the start of any mode. These include adjusting difficulty, whether or not to start each minigame with a tutorial, or the option to turn off motion minigames. Note that there are no alternate button controls for motion minigames, which means modes such as Rhythm Kitchen will be inaccessible if you’re not able to play with the required control configuration.

Should you play Super Mario Party Jamboree?

Play it if...

Don't play it if...

How I reviewed Super Mario Party 

I played Super Mario Party Jamboree for more than 15 hours on my Nintendo Switch OLED, which included multiple local multiplayer sessions. I was able to complete the single-player campaign, unlock all the party boards, try every minigame, and unlock lots if not all cosmetic items. Nintendo didn’t host online play sessions during the review period, so my experience with the online modes was limited to playing with AI players.

I played primarily in docked mode on an LG C2 OLED TV and played with a single Joy-Con, which is the default configuration if you want to swap between button and motion minigames. I also spent some time playing in handheld mode, which didn’t impact visuals and performance but would mean I wouldn’t be able to access motion-based minigames.

Following a nine-year void with no new role-playing games (RPGs) for the Nintendo franchise, Mario & Luigi: Brothership sees the plumber pair reunited for another adventure, and it’s a glorious return to form for a beloved series.

At a preview event hosted by Nintendo, I got to play just over an hour of the upcoming game, and judging by that alone, I’d wager it could easily chart among the best Nintendo Switch games to be released this year.

A lot has changed in gaming over the last decade, reflected wonderfully in Mario & Luigi: Brothership’s careful balance of sticking to its roots while adding shedloads of creativity and quirk that has been sorely missed in more recent titles. Mario and Luigi’s brotherly bond is at the front and center, with even the cover art showing the pair closer than ever in a shoulder embrace, with new Bros. Attacks, new game mechanics, and new friends to join the mustachio’d pair on their quest.

Its new, all-3D artwork is wonderful, allowing for far more expression both from its characters and the world itself. Speaking of which, the semi-open world is a delight to explore and brimming with life and activity, and as a Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker fan, it’s wonderful to see Nintendo return to the sea once more.

Bro, bro, bro your boat

For their latest caper, Mario and Luigi are seabound, transported to a new realm called Concordia, and sent on a mission to reconnect its scattered islands into one united land following the destruction of the Unitree which once held them together.

It’s hard to tell based solely on my preview, but it seems Mario & Luigi: Brothership has taken a similar approach to the semi-open world of Super Mario Odyssey - though it remains to be seen to what degree you can choose where you’ll venture next.

The main hub of the game itself is also an island; Shipshape Island, which is suitably ship-shaped. As such Mario and Luigi can use Shipshape Island to traverse the open sea, using a cannon to launch themselves to nearby islands.

You navigate the ocean by sailing around different water channels, finding islands and smaller, unmarked islets to explore along the way. My time with the preview didn’t reveal how much of a role the ocean navigation segments play in the game, but I did learn the hard way that it’s possible to overshoot your destination and end up continuing around the one-way path that the water currents create.

Once on dry land, you have relatively free reign to explore the islands themselves as the brothers work together to complete quests for the locals and find each island’s lighthouse, and reconnect it to the Unitree. I got to explore two such islands; first, a music-themed isle from earlier in the game, and the latter was a Merry-Go-Round-themed island from about five hours in. However, I’m already really excited to see more of the game’s varied thematic islands and the puzzles that lie within them.

A bro-dependant pair

But what about our heroes? Well, with great joy I can say they’re closer than ever - a wise move following the success of the Super Mario Bros movie, where their brotherly relationship was fleshed out in more detail. The time-honored gags remain; gibberish “Italian” dialogue; Mario nailing every landing while Luigi plummets into a nearby tree; Mario saving Luigi from a plethora of perils; all injected with the 3D animation style’s ability to convey more emotion and expression, making the duo ever more loveable.

Joining you are also a host of familiar faces as well as new characters, including the Super Mario Universe’s latest addition - Concordians. These blocky characters come in all shapes and sizes, with a huge variety of personalities - a welcome departure from the doppelganger doomscape that is the Mushroom Kingdom.

Your main guide through these foreign lands is Connie, a young and kind-hearted Concordian with a penchant for plug-shaped hats, as well as Snoutlet, the brothers’ primary companion who takes residence in Luigi’s hat. While its name may portmanteau outlet and snout, Snoutlet will be sure to let you know they’re no swine.

For the first time in a while in the Super Mario Universe, I found myself cackling at the goofy, hyper-animated world of Mario & Luigi: Brotherhood and it’s a charmed return to form that will serve to delight fans of the more whacky era of Mario gaming.

Brothers in arms

Combat broadly feels finessed in Mario & Luigi: Brotherhood, maintaining the dynamic battle system with core features like the Bros Attacks while adding some exciting new mechanics.

Timed attacks, dodges and counters keep combat exciting and engaging, and even normal attacks now use both brothers to deal damage. I really like this addition, but it does, at times, draw out combat, especially if you’re just trying to grind through turns while you wait for your Bros Points to recharge so you can deal a killing blow with a Bros Attack.

Speaking of which, Bros Attacks remain as epic as ever, with high-octane and smoothly animated sequences giving a real sense of momentum to battles. I tried out Mario & Luigi: Brothership’s take on the Red Shell and Green Shell Bros Attacks, where the brothers kick back and forth shells to ramp up damage, but that was the only move available at that point in the game. However, Nintendo of Japan previously released in-game footage showing new Bros Attacks like a lightning strike will come into play, and there’s certain to be an array of the best attacks from previous games, too.

A smaller but welcomed addition is also the health bar and level information on enemies. No, it’s not groundbreaking, but it’s new to the series, and a welcome addition if you’re trying to decide if you can be bothered to tackle an enemy crew.

As you traverse Concordia, you’ll be able to upgrade your gear as in previous titles and choose stats to buff as you level up. That’s not the only way you can power up your punches, however - a new Battle Plug system allows you to create and customize your fighting style with power-ups, which can be toggled in and out of fight sequences. These have a limited number of uses before they need charging, but came in clutch several times during my preview by stunning enemies, amping up my attack power, and helping me dodge and counterattack.

Fight sequences aren’t the only times the plumber pair will band together. As well as overworld puzzles, there are also new Bros Moves. These team-up mechanics offer unique powers as you explore the world, and while I was only able to sample the UF-Bro move which sees the pair merge into a floating spaceship to bridge gaps and fly over obstacles (normal Mario things, right?), I’m really excited to see how the game builds on the collaborative approach to exploration. Other in-world obstacles like cliff edges and ball volleys also require the pair to work together, and while these are mostly aesthetic additions, it’s nice to see the cooperative thread running throughout the game.

I'm a-Luigi, number… two…

While Nintendo is keen to highlight how much Luigi is Mario’s equal in the game, I was a little disappointed that it hasn’t been quite as bold as I’d have liked with its reimagining of the series. Yes, there are new mechanics, and I do love the aesthetic and world-building additions to the game, but why oh why is Luigi still playing second fiddle?

Let’s start with the positives; Luigi hasn’t been left in the dust and has a new special ability called Luigi Logic that enables our green-capped scaredy-cat to become a puzzle and battle master.

If there’s a nearby interactable object, he’ll have a lightbulb moment, and by pressing the L trigger he’ll be released from his invisible brotherly bond to Mario a la Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga and shuffle off to smash boxes, uproot plants, and crush boulders to find coins and items. In battle, Luigi will also occasionally have brain waves that will help the pair defeat foes, but I didn’t see any of these during my preview.

This, combined with Snoutlet’s attachment to Luigi rather than his older brother, brings Luigi more to the fore in the narrative. Still, it seems as though it’s just a few new features that allow you to control him independently, and at select moments within the game, rather than my dreams of switching between the pair at will.

A Nintendo representative did confirm there are points where you can fully and independently control Luigi, but until the full game releases, there’s no real indication of just how much Luigi time we might get.

A special bro-ccasion

Luigi's woes aside, there’s a lot to love about Mario & Luigi: Brothership. It’s unabashedly quirky, and even without the stalwart steer of its original developers, the now-defunct AlphaDream, its roots are as strong as those of the Unitree connecting Concordia. In an abnormally secretive move, we still don’t know who the developers are for the new title, though a Nintendo Rep did confirm to Game File that some of the original AlphaDream developers who worked on the franchise are involved with Brothership.

Regardless, it’s clear that whoever has taken custody of developing the Mario & Luigi franchise has a lot of love for the games, and a keen understanding of what makes a Mario game great; simple yet inventive and engaging combat, whimsical world-building, and a whole load of goofy gags.

With that in mind, I’m incredibly excited for the game’s release on Nintendo Switch on November 7, 2024.

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The free-for-all of AI image creation on X had a rude wakeup this week when Nintendo's copyright infringement hunter Tracer, as first reported by the Verge, laid takedown notices on several users who had shared images of Mario built using X's Grok-2 AI model. Tracer sent dozens of users the notices under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). 

The Grok AI chatbot on X employs the FLUX.1 model to produce images, but the AI didn't seem to have much of an intellectual property filter when it came out. That led to many images of characters like Mario behaving in ways their parent companies would not be thrilled about seeing. For instance, pictures of the Nintendo mascot drinking and smoking cigarettes were among the most common targets of the DMCA notices. 

Tracer even uses AI tools to spot when its clients have had their trademarks or copyrights violated. These AI tools are designed to scan large volumes of content for any potential infringement. Of course, those AI tools are as imperfect as the image generators, which meant even hand-drawn fan art of Mario reportedly provoked DMCA notices in some cases. That raises concerns about potential overreach since fan art is (usually) not illegal to make or share outside of certain circumstances.

Art Attack

Since the takedown notices came from Tracer, Nintendo's explicit instructions, if any, to Tracer have not been revealed. But it's not hard to imagine Nintendo wanting to be aggressive about AI image creation using its IP. The company's history of legal action over unauthorized use is a deterrent in many cases, though random fans using AI engines have not been a major target before. But, while Nintendo's lawsuit against Palworld and its imitation Pokémon game is getting headlines now, it may seem small potatoes should the video game giant go after Elon Musk's xAI and X or the open-source Flux.

Nintendo may want to come in early and hard against AI-generated content, which it believes violates its IP rights, but it may be too late. Though OpenAI’s DALL-E, Google’s Gemini, Midjourney, and many other image generators have strict rules in place to limit these kinds of images from their own AI models, Flux and others are clearly not as bothered about it. Whether DMCA notices or even lawsuits will stop people from making images of Mario acting in ways you'd never see in an official video game remains to be seen.

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If there’s one thing that characterizes the Mario Party series, it’s consistency. If you’ve played any of the previous installments on Nintendo’s latest console, then you know almost exactly what to expect from Super Mario Party Jamboree. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, though, as it's a winning formula that already makes for some of the best Nintendo Switch games around if you’re after something to enjoy with your friends and family.

While Super Mario Party Jamboree doesn’t reinvent the fundamentals of the franchise, it’s still shaping up to be one of the most content-rich entries to date. It features a staggering 110 minigames, the largest number of any Mario Party game, and 22 playable characters including Ninji and Pauline for the first time.

It also blends the motion control style of Super Mario Party with the button inputs of Mario Party Superstars, offering a mix of minigames that make use of each system. This, in theory, gives you the best of both worlds and should cater to all tastes when it comes to the controls.

Going hands-on with the game for a few hours at a Nintendo preview event, I was able to sample a selection of its modes in a multiplayer setting and came away optimistic that it’ll be able to deliver an enjoyable party experience when it launches for Nintendo Switch this October 17.

Roll the dice

Super Mario Party Jamboree will feature a total of seven game boards, including five original creations and two remakes. The entirety of my time in the game’s standard party mode was spent on the Mega Wiggler's Tree Party board, which was a rather basic environment clearly geared toward first-time players. Even so, there were some interesting design elements to contend with, like multiple paths and a giant Wiggler (caterpillar creatures from the Super Mario series) located in the middle of the map.

You can traverse across the Wiggler to reach the other side of the board, but it doesn't always stay in the same place. Other players can obtain a bell item that prompts it to move or land on one of a handful of bell tiles on the map to trigger the same effect. As you can imagine, it presents a delightfully devilish way to thwart the plans of other players by sending them hurtling to the wrong end of the map.

That aside, the mechanics were very much your standard Mario Party fare. Players roll dice to determine the number of places that they can move, choosing paths and ultimately trying to get their hands on a Star. Each set of turns is punctuated by a minigame, a short challenge that sees players either compete or cooperate to do everything from avoiding falling sandwiches at the bottom of a giant picnic basket to dodging a giant Bullet Bill and much more. It’s nothing ground breaking, but it is still a lot of fun. 

Even so, one thing that I did learn during my play session is that some of the side modes in Super Mario Party Jamboree shouldn’t be missed. Of the two I tried, Bowser Kaboom Squad, which sees eight players rushing around a little map to collect bombs in order to defeat a giant evil Bowser, wasn’t anything special, but Koopathlon was exceptionally enjoyable.

It’s effectively a 20-player online battle, with everyone competing to collect coins in real-time. Each coin moves you forward one space on a giant shared board, leading to a very frantic race. It’s really elevated by the fact that you can see the positions of your character and all the other players in a small window on the side of your screen as you go, forcing you to keep up the pace if you want to stay ahead.

It was an absolute blast and will probably be the first thing that I dive back into come launch day. If you're a long-time Mario Party fan eager for your next fix or just want some good old-fashioned local multiplayer entertainment to whip out at your next in-person gathering, this is one to keep on your radar.

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An 8-bit plumber with a mustache and a taste for mushrooms was the height of cutting-edge entertainment in 1985. Now, an AI model can recreate the entire game based on some basic prompts (and with sometimes hilarious glitches in the process). 

The MarioVGG demonstrated in a new academic paper by video game character developer Virtuals Protocol shows how AI might help collaborate in future AI-driven video game production or possibly why it shouldn’t. 

MarioVGG is an experiment in getting AI to produce plausible gameplay videos from a series of prompts on how the environment should look and behave and how characters should act. It’s a long-form version of the kind of text-to-video tools quickly growing in popularity. It is trained on more than 737,000 frames of gameplay footage from Super Mario Bros. 

However, the AI Mario doesn’t do everything the character in the Nintendo game does, as the researchers limited the model’s interaction capabilities to just two moves; “run right” and “run right and jump.” The resulting images form a video, albeit one suggesting a player deliberately making it more challenging by avoiding power-ups, only jumping to one height, or moving left.

You can see a bit of MarioVGG’s performance below. It’s simultaneously astonishingly good at recreating the game's look while also full of glaring errors and flaws. Though the AI-generated sequences are mostly coherent in matching a user’s input to the way Mario acts, it’s very much not the same speed, with each frame taking a little bit of time for the AI to create. Not to mention the occasional disappearance of Mario from the screen or his transformation into an enemy character for a bit. 

Super MarAIo Modeling

Still, seeing the AI show a partial understanding of cause-and-effect between user inputs and the resulting gameplay moves potential code-free video game development a lot closer to reality. AI models like MarioVGG aren’t going to replace video game developers or the standard engine any time soon, but the idea of just explaining to an AI how you want a game’s physics and environments to function instead of coding it all manually is far too tempting for technical obstacles to discourage. 

There’s a lot left to solve since video games involve a constantly evolving series of interactions between the player and the game environment. That’s much more complex than static images or simple actions in a video. Accurately recreating this interactivity in real-time is a challenge that MarioVGG has not yet solved – not that MarioVGG is the only effort in that regard. 

Google’s GameNGen recently showed off a playable version of Doom produced by an AI model. Despite being an older game, Super Mario Bros. requires more nuanced control over character movement and environmental interaction than Doom, so the result is not quite as fast or accurate. AI is currently much better at text-based games with occasional illustrations than something like a Mario game. But, like the early days of video games, an evolution toward the fast-paced, interactive video games of Nintendo’s golden age could be coming faster than any goomba.

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Most parents I speak to feel the same sort of dilemma. We want our children to be prepared for the technology-saturated world that they’re guaranteed to live in but we also don’t want them on devices all the time. We appreciate that technology has a place in our children’s education but we’re disappointed when they come home telling us they’ve been on an iPad all day. Balancing exposure to devices seems to be a tightrope we’re always walking.

My children haven’t hit their teenage years yet and I generally lean on trying to limit their screen time to as little as I can. I love the thought of them getting bored and being forced to create their own games. Children are so creative and it’s amazing what they come up with. But at the same time, I know there are a ton of apps out there that are specifically suited to helping children learn skills that might otherwise pass them by.

One of these apps that I’ve discovered recently is Thinkrolls and it might possibly be my favorite app of all time. Maybe you think I’m being over the top but if you read on, you may agree with me.

As soon as I opened the app, I was transfixed. Forgive me. I know I’m a 39-year-old man and the app is designed for 2-8-year-olds but it had me from the get-go. You’re immediately presented with a fun and engaging video that introduces Thinkrolls, cute little creatures that form the centerpiece of the game. You’ll instantly fall in love with them – or at least I did.

At this stage, I thought there was a strong chance of getting carried away, and after all, who wants to know what I think of an app designed for children? So I drafted in my two youngest children and gave each of them a stint on the app. 

I tried to let them lead as much as possible, intervening to help them only when necessary. I wanted to see how well the app had been designed and whether a young child could navigate their way around it. I can report back that they found it incredibly intuitive, especially as there's always a helpful Thinkroll guide on hand when a little extra help is needed.

My children were as besotted as I was. They navigated around the various types of games and puzzles, landing on the arcade puzzles first. These are a series of games that require the user to roll their Thinkroll through a maze while solving a series of logic challenges. 

This type of game is what I love most about the app. The logic puzzles teach and challenge children, forcing them to think and plan ahead of time. Thinkrolls can continue through the maze but you have to collect keys to unlock locked doors. 

One of my children struggles with thinking ahead and I wasn’t sure how she would cope with it. Because the logic puzzles increased in difficulty gradually, my child was able to grow in not only confidence but also ability. I got the very real sense that my child was developing important skills with each passing challenge. 

Every game is made up of delectable graphics and addictive music that keep you wanting more. In terms of style, think Bluey. Great color palettes and clean lines. The music won’t just have you nodding along; it will fully immerse you in the game. And by ‘you’ I mean your children!

One of the other things I love about the way the game works is that there are pretty much no time limits. Children are free to move forward and learn at their own pace, not feeling like they’re clock-watching and being forced into ever-increasing speed. Children with additional needs will particularly appreciate the relaxed environment.

Alongside these puzzles, there are also a range of math and coding games designed to empower your children to learn. Ideas are brought to life as new puzzles are coded and shared with family. With new content added every month, there really is no shortage of amazing games that will not only keep your children engaged but also teach them vital lessons along the way.

There are two available subscription plans: monthly and annual. Both give you access to all content in the app for the selected period. New subscribers can take advantage of a 7-day free trial.

Download the Thinkrolls app on iOS or Android

Nintendo has revealed that Pauline will be the second new character joining the roster of the upcoming Super Mario Party Jamboree.

Having first debuted as the kidnapped damsel in distress in the 1981 arcade game Donkey Kong, the character’s most significant recent appearance was as the mayor of New Donk City in 2017's Super Mario Odyssey. Although definitely still one of the lesser-known Nintendo characters, she has managed become a bit of a mainstay of modern Super Mario spin-off titles of late.

She appeared as a playable character in not only Mario Kart 8 Deluxe but also Mario Tennis Aces, Mario Golf: Super Rush, and Mario Strikers: Battle League. Now Nintendo has confirmed that Pauline will also be joining the Mario Party series as a playable character in Super Mario Party Jamboree.

A new trailer for the game that gives us our first real look at Pauline in action has been released. Her appearance seems very similar to that in Super Mario Odyssey, sporting her trademark red dress. The trailer also gives us a brief look at some of the minigames that players will experience, which you can see for yourself below.

Pauline is not the only new character coming to Super Mario Party Jamboree. The game will also feature Ninji, a ninja-like enemy first seen in the North American version of Super Mario Bros. 2 on the Nintendo Entertainment System.

Super Mario Party Jamboree is set to release for Nintendo Switch on October 17. From everything that we've seen so far, it's really shaping up to be a treat for Mario Party fans, boasting more than 110 minigames - the largest number of any Mario Party game so far. It also has seven unique boards, including remakes of the classic Western Land and Mario’s Rainbow Castle.

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Whether you're after a brand new pair of Joy-Con controllers, one of the best Nintendo Switch party games, or both, Walmart currently has a fantastic discount on the Super Mario Party + Red & Blue Joy-Con Controller bundle that's comfortably beating Amazon's record-low price right now.

The Super Mario Party + Red & Blue Joy-Con Controller bundle is currently available at Walmart for just $60.99 (was $99.99); a massive saving of $31 and cheaper than Amazon's best price by around 20 bucks.

What makes this a truly exceptional discount is that a pair of Joy-Con controllers by themselves typically cost $69.99 at retail price. This essentially means you're getting the controllers for $9 less along with a free digital copy of Super Mario Party. Plus, if this is to be your second pair of Joy-Con controllers, then you've already got enough for four-player shenanigans in this excellent party game.

Today's best Super Mario Party + Joy-Con bundle deal

This is one of the best gaming deals we've seen ahead of Amazon Prime Day next week. While Super Mario Party itself has been succeeded by Mario Party Superstars and the upcoming Super Mario Party Jamboree! on Nintendo Switch, it's in itself still a worthwhile party game and an excellent return to form for the multiplayer-focused series.

Want to browse an even greater scope of early deals? Be sure to check out our Amazon Prime Day Nintendo Switch deals and Prime Day gaming deals pages for a range of the best early deals and an idea of what to expect come next week's sales rush.

More Amazon Prime Day deals in the US

• Amazon Devices: Fire Sticks from $14.99
• Apple: AirPods and iPads from $69
• Audible: three months free
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• Music Unlimited: five months free
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More Amazon Prime Day deals in the UK

• Amazon Devices: up to 66% off
• Audible: three months free
• Books: from 99p
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There was a time when big discounts on many first-party Nintendo Switch games were almost unheard of, with titles rigidly sticking to their asking price. Thankfully, this is now no longer the case as evidenced by these brilliant savings on a wide range of fantastic Nintendo Switch games ahead of Amazon Prime Day.

The best deal here is easily the $20.24 saving on the fairly recently released Super Mario RPG which is available for just $39.75 (was $59.99) at Amazon in the US. This is a hefty discount and a new lowest-ever price for the game which is an excellent remake of a Super Nintendo Entertainment System classic.

You can also find The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom for just $52.95 (was $69.99) at Amazon in the US. Just slightly above the lowest-ever price at the retailer, this $17.04 reduction is one of the best deals that we’ve ever seen on the critically acclaimed latest entry in the long-running The Legend of Zelda series.

Finally, you can secure a copy of Super Mario Bros. Wonder for just $51.99 (was $59.99) at Amazon in the US. It’s a modest saving of $8, but still an excellent deal. You can learn more about each of these games plus browse a few other hand-picked discounts below.

Big savings on Nintendo Switch games at Amazon

Many of these titles rank among the very best Nintendo Switch games right now and are suitable for all ages. Whether you're shopping for a new game to play on your personal Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED, or Nintendo Switch Lite, or looking for a gift for a friend or family member, you really can't go wrong with any of these options. 

If you would prefer to wait for Amazon Prime Day to roll around, make sure to consult our guide to the best Amazon Prime Day Nintendo Switch deals for some examples of what to expect and a guide on how to prepare.

Also, there's no need to worry if you live outside the US and UK. You can browse a range of deals on each game in your region below.

If you’ve played Luigi’s Mansion 2 on Nintendo 3DS, then you already know exactly what to expect from Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD. This is a fairly basic port of the ghost-hunting adventure with a few minor changes to accommodate the move to a new system with a single display, such as the repositioning of the in-game map and health meter from the second screen to a newly designed overlay. The visuals have also received a bit of a boost too, with higher-resolution textures and noticeably better anti-aliasing throughout.

Even so, the age and portable nature of the original title is very apparent. The lighting is rather drab, objects are built from simplistic shapes, and character models lack any real detail. This is partially by design, as Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD sticks to a highly exaggerated cartoon-like art direction, but still means that it absolutely pales in comparison to the look of the seriously stunning Luigi’s Mansion 3 or even the more atmospheric style of the first entry back on the GameCube. 

It’s also evident in the level-based structure, which splits exploration of its five haunted mansions into bite-size stages that last roughly 15 to 20 minutes each. It’s easy to feel a little frustrated in the moments that you’re ripped out of the action and forced back to a level select screen before being allowed to continue, but this system isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It suits the pick-up-and-play nature of the Nintendo Switch down to a tee and makes this installment a decent option if you’re just after something to keep you entertained on public transport or during moments of downtime on a vacation.

Mario and Boo-igi

While I ultimately don’t think this will wholly justify the $59.99 / £49.99 asking price for many returning players, Luigi's Mansion 2 HD does still have plenty to offer to those who haven’t experienced it before. Like other entries in the spinoff series, it follows Luigi as he combats rogue ghosts at the behest of Professor E. Gadd - an eccentric scientist and creator of various wacky gadgets. One of his inventions is the Poltergust 5000, a modified vacuum cleaner and your main weapon in the fight against the paranormal. Fitted with a bright flashlight, the bulk of the game is spent entering rooms and tapping a button to stun ghosts before sucking them into oblivion in order to deplete their health and trapping them in your rucksack with a satisfying slurp.

It sounds quite basic on paper, but it’s a highly satisfying formula that is cleverly expanded as you progress. New ghost types, like strong brutes or flabby creatures that spew toxic bile, are introduced at a good pace, helping to keep things fresh. The Poltergust can also be used to collect coins hidden in various nooks and crannies. Poring over each environment to uncover removable rugs or other secret spots is well rewarded too, as increasing your total number of accumulated coins grants access to useful equipment upgrades.

You also get your hands on the dark light quite early on, an inverted flashlight that reveals hidden objects. All of these tools are leveraged to create some quite memorable environmental puzzles throughout your adventure. Some favorites include using the Poltergust to blow fans in order to open up hidden areas and a brilliant sequence involving a surprisingly creepy haunted doll. A number of enemy encounters also stand out, like an amusing moment where you walk in on an unsuspecting ghost in the shower to much mutual surprise.

While your primary goal is to acquire key items or reach a new location, some stages focus on more interesting objective types. This includes tracking down Toad helpers who have become trapped inside supernatural paintings and leading them to escape points or chasing after the Polterpup, a fast-moving ghostly dog that can jump through walls. Each world also features a boss encounter with an enemy that has their own slew of engaging mechanics, though one, in particular, stands out as easily the lowest point in the game. 

You’re put behind the wheel of a makeshift snow sled armed with a cannon and have to shoot bombs at weak points on a possessed ice monster from a first-person perspective. It’s a good idea on paper, but the execution is simply awful. The bombs are incredibly frustrating to aim and there is an unnecessarily long cool-down period between shots. This wouldn’t be an issue were it not for the strict time limit, which sees the boss frequently regenerate health at the most annoying possible moments and even leads to a complete game over once an arbitrary meter fills up.

There are no checkpoints within any of the levels either, presumably due to their usual short length, meaning that you have to start this entire fight again from scratch every single time. All in all, it took about five agonizing attempts to pull the fight off and my success felt more like the result of pure luck rather than anything else. This fight was also widely regarded as an abysmal nightmare by fans of the original release, so it’s difficult to imagine why no changes were made to its mechanics this time around. The simple removal of the time limit, or even just the option to skip the sequence entirely after a few fails, would be a dramatic improvement.

Creepy co-op

The ScareScraper multiplayer also makes a return largely unchanged, again offering support for up to four players both locally and online. It takes place in a randomly generated skyscraper and features four unique modes to try: Hunter, Rush, Polterpup, and Surprise. Hunter challenges you to explore a set number of floors while working together to collect every ghost, while Rush sees you hurrying to find an exit against a very strict time limit. You can extend this time limit by a few seconds by tracking down the collectible timepieces hidden on each floor, which makes for quite an exhilarating challenge.

Polterpup mode brings back the ghostly canines from the main game and has you tracking them down on each floor with your dark light to progress. As the name would suggest, Surprise is then a mixture of all three, alternating between objective types with each subsequent floor. Although the high-pressure nature of Rush meant that it was comfortably the most compelling, I enjoyed my time with each of the modes and would definitely recommend spending an hour or two in each if you manage to scrape together some friends or find a populated online lobby. 

ScareScraper also includes a small handful of unique ghost variants to collect which, while nothing beyond basic cosmetic changes, does give dedicated completionists a compelling reason to keep coming back for more.

 Accessibility

Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD includes very few accessibility features. It offers the ability to disable the gyroscope controls or invert the Y and X axis. You can also increase or decrease motion sensor and thumbstick sensitivity. As the game features little spoken dialogue, subtitles are used throughout, but there are no dedicated settings to edit text presentation.

 Should I play Luigi's Mansion 2 HD?

Play it if…

 Don’t play it if…

 How we reviewed Luigi's Mansion 2 HD

I played Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD for over 13 hours on a Nintendo Switch OLED. During that time I completed the main campaign and then revisited a number of stages to search for additional collectibles. I also spent an hour in the multiplayer as part of a four-player session organized by Nintendo in which I experienced the Hunter, Rush, and Polterpup modes. I played in both handheld and docked mode, assessing the performance of each. While in docked mode, I used a Nintendo Switch Pro Controller. 

Mario & Luigi: Brothership has been announced, and it's coming to Nintendo Switch on November 7, 2024.

Revealed today during the June 2024 Nintendo Direct showcase, Mario & Luigi: Brothership is the first new entry in the series in almost nine years and sees the iconic brothers return in an all-new platforming adventure featuring turn-based combat.

This announcement arrived alongside an action-packed gameplay trailer, which you can watch below, where we see the duo overcome both side-scrolling and vertical challenges as they explore a number of islands.

Nintendo executive Shinya Takahashi was also present during the broadcast to share more details about this "seafaring adventure", which will include "evolved bros moves" between Mario and Luigi. 

"The brothers are back for a brand-new entry in the Mario & Luigi series, where they set sail on Shipshape Island (part ship, part island) to navigate the vast world of Concordia," the press release reads. 

Playing as both Mario and Luigi, players can explore islands that range from tropical rainforests to bustling cities, and meet new and familiar friends along the way that will help them along the way, including Princess Peach and Bowser. 

"Keep the 'Brothership' afloat and rely on Mario and Luigi’s bond to save the day by employing Bros. Moves to get past obstacles and powerful Bros. Attacks to claim victory in a dynamic twist on turn-based combat."

While Mario & Luigi: Brothership kicked off the showcase, Nintendo had plenty of other surprises lined up for the Direct. 

Among them was the long-awaited release date for Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake - which is coming this November for Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC - as well as the announcement of Dragon Quest 1 & 2 HD-2D Remake, which are coming in 2025.

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Lego has revealed three new Lego Super Mario sets coming this year and confirmed that Lego Super Mario: Mario Kart is in the works for 2025.

March 10 was a huge day for Mario news. Dubbed MAR10 (Mario) Day, the event saw the confirmation of a release date for the upcoming Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door remake and Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD video games for Nintendo Switch.

There was also a special MAR10 Day stream on the official Lego YouTube channel, which gave us our first look at three new Lego Super Mario sets that are going to be released on August 1, 2024.

The first one to be shown was The Bowser Express Train, which takes place on a Bowser-themed locomotive that was inspired by one of the boss stages in Super Mario 3D World. Intended for ages 9+, it’s a pretty hefty set that contains 1,392 pieces and retails for the price of $119.99 / £104.99.

There was also King Boo’s Haunted Mansion. As the name would suggest, this set centers around a creepy mansion that is haunted by Boos. In addition to hidden secrets like an elevating sofa and trick bookcase, the set even comes with an adorable Yellow Baby Yoshi figure which is definitely a very nice touch. It is intended for ages 8+, contains a total of 932 pieces, and costs $74.99 / £64.99.

Finally, there was Battle with Roy at Peach’s Castle. Featuring a model of Princess Peach’s castle that seems to have been at least partially inspired by the iconic castle ground in Super Mario 64, it includes a catapult and collapsible castle walls. Intended for ages 7+ and containing 738 pieces, it costs $64.99 / £59.99 making it the smallest and cheapest of the three.

The stream also provided our first glimpse at Lego Super Mario: Mario Kart, with the mysterious silhouette of what appears to be a brick-built kart. Whether this is simply a new set or a new range is yet to be seen, but we’ll be keeping a close eye out for any further updates.

For more on all things Nintendo, see our guides to the best Nintendo Switch games or the best Nintendo Switch accessories.

March 10 saw Nintendo once again celebrate its portly plumber and pals during MAR10 Day. The annual event gave us a brief presentation highlighting some major announcement for the Mario franchise both near and, well, not-so near.

Hosted by Shigeru Miyamoto, the near-three minute long presentation packed a healthy number of announcements. The bulk of the video was taken up by confirmation that a sequel to The Super Mario Bros. Movie is in the works, with a targeted release date of April 3, 2026. Couple of years to wait on this front, then.

Thankfully we won't have to wait nearly as long for the next three announcements. Firstly, the Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door remake now has a release date of May 23, 2024. Plus, Luigi's Mansion 2 HD will be arriving on Nintendo Switch a month later on June 27.

But what if you're craving some Mario action right now? Well, you're in luck, as three highly-regarded Mario classics are coming to Nintendo Switch Online. Dr. Mario for the original Game Boy, as well as Mario Golf and Mario Tennis for the Game Boy Color will all be arriving on the platform.

The latter two are especially fondly remembered by longtime Nintendo fans. Developed by Camelot, these titles also feature in-depth story modes and RPG elements to set them apart from the usual sporting fare. Dr. Mario on the other hand is, well, it's Dr. Mario; more or less the same puzzler you'll find in Nintendo Switch Online's NES library, albeit with a few fewer colors.

The biggest takeaway here on the gaming front is, of course, Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door getting a concrete release date. It's widely regarded as not only the best Paper Mario game, but also one of the best Gamecube games, period. Hopefully, the remake will be of a high enough quality be included in our list of the best Nintendo Switch games, too.

For more Switch coverage, be sure to check out our guides to the best Nintendo Switch accessories and best Nintendo Switch headsets.

Shigeru Miyamoto, the father of Mario and Zelda, opened up about his history with video games and his current role in the industry in a new interview. 

Speaking with The Guardian, Miyamoto said: "I don't think of myself as a game designer [these days]." In the 2020s, the industry legend is more concerned with "finding unique opportunities for Nintendo."

"We try to find our own new path. The movies, the amusement parks, I'm excited to see what kind of organic things result from those [...] I'm still very new to [the movie] industry and I'm still learning, but I'm trying to read a lot of scripts these days and learn how they are developed, to see how we can create uniquely Nintendo films." 

With The Super Mario Bros. Movie breaking box office records, it's no surprise that Miyamoto is keen to help Nintendo explore this new frontier of creativity. With the seasoned designer at the helm of the upcoming live-action Legend of Zelda movie alongside Morbius producer Avi Arad, it looks as though there will be plenty more chances for Miyamoto to flex his filmographic muscles.   

However, this is not to say that the industry veteran has stepped back from game design wholesale. While he is "not involved in the minute details of development," Miyamoto "does oversee entire projects" in a more big-picture way.

Taking about his approach, Miyamoto said of himself: "If he says something's good, it's rare. He's actually a shy person; even when he thinks something is well done, he would often not say that to someone directly." 

Reflecting on his roots, he added: "A lot of my classmates were going off to car manufacturers or electronics manufacturers, but I wanted to make something weird, something interesting, that's how I came upon Nintendo."

Though the likes of Mario and Link have left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape, Miyamoto has no intention of stopping. "More so than retiring, I'm thinking about the day I fall over [...] I do think about who I can pass things on to, in case something does happen. I'm really thankful that there is so much energy around things that I have worked on."

Want more Nintendo goodness? Check our lists of the best Nintendo Switch games and the best Super Mario games.

Everybody enjoys assembling a bit of Lego, but did you know that the legendary toy brand also caters to gamers? There are a good number of sets based on iconic video game franchises nestled among the company’s other offerings, including licensed products based on Sonic and Super Mario. 

You can even find intricate recreations of popular retro consoles (like the Nintendo Entertainment System) aimed towards a more adult audience. Whether you’re shopping for a treat for yourself or for gifts to give younger fans over the holiday season, now is a perfect time to secure discounts on gaming Lego sets as part of the ongoing Black Friday gaming deals at a wide range of major retailers.

To save you the trouble of trawling through endless listings, I have embarked on the noble quest to seek out the very best discounts on all things gaming Lego that are available right now. While Lego model sets are traditionally very expensive, these savings can help bring those lofty prices down to more affordable levels. I have endeavored to include a fairly broad selection of themes here, so if you’re a fan of one particular line, like Lego Super Mario, then it may be worth taking a moment to explore some of the smaller discounts available on some of the line’s other sets at the retailers linked.

Today's best gaming Lego set deals

Don't worry if you're outside of the US or UK. Here are the best deals on gaming Lego sets in your region:

Don't miss out on other discounts. Visit our guides to the best Black Friday PS5 deals, the best Nintendo Switch Black Friday deals and the best Black Friday Xbox Series X deals for more.

Speedrunners have descended with full force upon Super Mario Bros. Wonder, following the discovery of an odd glitch which allows players to completely skip through certain mandatory areas of the game.

As GamesRadar+ reports, earlier this week, Twitch streamer and speedrunner Jhay posted a clip to Twitter highlighting a glitch which makes it possible to skip the level at the end of the first world - Pipe-Rock Plateau Palace - entirely, therefore allowing entry into the second world much faster. The glitch requires some messing around in two-player mode - using a second controller, the player must walk their first character off the screen, switch the characters on the options menu, and then the player-two controlled character is able to walk off the side of the map, which isn’t meant to be possible. 

Then, by switching back to one player and choosing to play as the character that was previously set to player two, players can find themselves fully off the beaten track, and progress to the second world. It’s a bit complicated, but Jhay has clearly got it all worked out, as it was using this trick in multiple places around the map that’s now allowed them to complete an Any% run (essentially, a speedrun in which reaching the end of the game by any means necessary counts as finishing it) of Super Mario Bros Wonder in one hour, 30 minutes and 55 seconds.

Over on Speedrun.com, you can see that this latest time beats Jhay’s previous record (which used the same skipping technique) by almost two minutes, and plenty of others on the ranking can be seen pulling off similar maneuvers in an attempt to climb to the top. 

For reference, HowLongToBeat estimates that the main story of Super Mario Bros. Wonder takes around nine hours to complete, so to shave seven and a half hours off from that is pretty significant. However, with this clearly not an intentional feature, it’s likely only a matter of time before the glitch is patched out. 

Super Mario Bros. Wonder is certainly one of the best Nintendo Switch games available to play right now. To keep up with more releases on the console, be sure to check out our roundup of upcoming Switch games.

The Super Mario Bros. games aren’t generally the most challenging titles you’ll ever come across. Sure, they certainly have their moments - the infamous Champion’s Road level from Super Mario 3D World, for example, is undeniably brutal.

Perhaps the existence of such levels should have warned me not to expect an entirely easy ride in Super Mario Bros. Wonder. The mustachioed plumber’s latest outing on Nintendo Switch is utterly joyous and features a focus on the weird and wonderful, as each stage contains a bizarre ‘Wonder Effect’ to transform the level and the way it’s played. 

For the most part, the levels are a breeze, but as completionists will know, there’s a handful of much trickier stages hiding in the ‘Special World’ - a hidden extra area that can only be accessed by completing certain hidden stages in the main worlds. These Special World levels are all given the highest difficulty rating of five stars, and for good reason. One rhythm-based level, called ‘Fluff-Puff Peaks Special - Climb to the Beat’, is absolutely merciless, and requires you to pull off some very precise and quick jumps to get to the end of the level before the platforms all disappear. 

While that stage took me around 40 minutes to complete and ingrained the ‘Jump! Jump! Jump!’ song in my head for days, this paled in comparison to the level that’s unlocked when you collect every Wonder Seed and 10-Flower Coin while also managing to reach the top of every flagpole. If you don’t want the details on this, consider this to be your final spoiler warning.

 A true test of willpower 

I was full of hope when I first entered ‘The Final-Final Test Badge Marathon’. Hope that would soon be extinguished. As the name might suggest, this stage forces players to go through an extreme gauntlet in which each part of the stage forces them to use a different Action or Expert Badge. For example, the first section has you glide down a huge fall using the Parachute Cap Badge while avoiding obstacles on the way, while another makes you use the Dolphin Kick Badge to quickly zip through an underwater area where stopping for too long will end in you being zapped by electricity. 

I handled most of the stage’s challenges pretty well, save for one section that, on its own, took me around five hours to overcome - the Spring Jump Badge area. The Spring Jump Badge, as the name suggests, forces your character to bounce endlessly as they move. While this allows them to jump higher and further than usual, it’s harder to control the timing and precision of their movements. This, unsurprisingly, doesn’t mix well with an obstacle course full of spinning Fire Bars.

In order to overcome this part, you must deftly dodge the fiery objects of doom and land very exact jumps to avoid falling to your death. If you don’t have a Super Mushroom active (which you physically can’t after dying once in this part of the level), the Fire Bars also kill you instantly, meaning that any slightly incorrect movement will force you to try again, from two full sections before this one even begins. Those other two bits aren’t exactly easy in the first place, either.

I personally found myself retrying the final part of the Spring Jump segment repeatedly, as the platforms got smaller and smaller to the point where they were just one block wide. These would be challenging even without the Badge, but with it permanently equipped, things began to feel hopeless as I lost track of how many lives I’d used up.

Hop to it

By the time I got to the fifth hour, I was running on autopilot, and maybe it was because I stopped thinking so hard about what I was doing that I was finally able to overcome it… and move on to the next four parts of the level, one of which makes you jump onto moving, bouncy Bloomps (fish-like balloon creatures) across a deadly gap while completely invisible. That one was also rough, but given I was still feeling euphoric after dragging myself out of the special hell that was the Spring Jump section, I was able to get through it relatively quickly, comfortable in the reassurance that, thankfully, there was a checkpoint after that worst part. 

Admittedly, I made the entire thing harder for myself since I refused to stop playing as Luigi when I could have used Yoshi or Nabbit to become immune to damage. That, and I wasn’t using the game’s online features that could have allowed other players to revive me when I fell. This was worth it in the end though, as the sense of victory was akin to taking down a challenging Elden Ring or Dark Souls boss, although ironically I genuinely found the level harder than taking down many of the soulsborne bosses I’ve fought in the past.

The frustration I felt during the stage is no complaint, either - optional challenges like these are fantastic since they offer something rewarding to complete for those willing to take them on, but anyone wanting a slightly easier ride doesn’t need to worry about it at all. Although I will say that the reward for doing so was - at least in my dazed opinion after getting through it - well worth my time. 

If you’re looking for even more fantastic games to play on Nintendo’s console, look no further than our recommendations for the best Nintendo Switch games. You can also keep up with future releases with our upcoming Switch games list.

It turns out that Super Mario Bros. Wonder had a “live commentary” feature during its development that would have matched players’ actions as they progressed through the 2D platformer’s levels, with the option to switch the generic default voice to “tsundere commentary”. However, it didn't make the final cut.

During the third part of Nintendo’s official Ask the Developer interview for Super Mario Bros. Wonder, which was published yesterday (October 18), game director Shiro Mouri revealed that the idea for a live commentary feature was first proposed by producer Takashi Tezuka. 

“We actually spent about six months seriously developing live commentary,” game designer Koichi Hayashida explained. “We tried adding voices to match the player's actions. Even though we'd added various voices, questions like, ‘Who’s doing this commentary?’ started to pop up amongst the team. Something about it just didn’t feel right.”

Mouri continued: “Even the team was evenly split between those in favor and those against. The default voice was very generic, like a newscaster, but you had the option to switch it to a tsundere commentary. [...] In fact, according to our play test records, quite a few people were switching to the tsundere commentary.”

For those unfamiliar, ‘tsundere’ is a Japanese term that can be used to describe a person or character who appears to be harsh on the outside, but occasionally shows a softer, more affectionate side. Think of characters who might say, “it’s not like I like you or anything”, and you’re on the right track. It’s quite a popular character trope in a number of anime series, but imagining it featuring in a Mario game like that sounds wild.

In the end, the commentary idea was scrapped almost entirely, since it would have been an enormous undertaking even to create the different voice variations. However, the idea still lives on in the form of Wonder’s Talking Flowers, which say various phrases and hints to Mario and his friends as they explore the side-scrolling levels. Mouri believes that this is “a version of live commentary that fits the world of Mario”. 

Super Mario Bros. Wonder is set to release exclusively on Nintendo Switch tomorrow (October 20). In TRG’s review, I gave the game five out of five stars, praising its satisfying secrets, gorgeous colorful visuals, and its exciting, varied levels. 

If you’re looking for more games to play, be sure to check out our roundup of the best Nintendo Switch games available to play right now. You can also keep up with the rest of the year’s releases with our handy list of upcoming games.

Playing Super Mario Bros. Wonder reminded me what video games are all about: having fun. Nintendo’s latest side-scrolling platformer has refined and built upon the 2D Mario installments that came before it, adding an onslaught of original, creative ideas that never feel old, loads of secrets to uncover, visuals that pop, and tiny details that are a genuine joy to spot. 

From start to finish, Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a delight. With this new Nintendo Switch release, the developers have been afforded more creativity than ever before when it comes to spicing up the numerous levels for Mario and his friends to traverse, thanks to the inclusion of the titular Wonder Effects. Triggered by finding a Wonder Flower in a course, these are weird and wonderful events that can alter the very way that a level is played and make each one a truly memorable experience. 

Some Wonder Effects offer an additional amount of challenge, others are a visual spectacle to behold, and others exist seemingly with the sole purpose of making players smile. I wrote in my extended preview that I’ve never played a game that’s made me smile as fast as Super Mario Bros. Wonder, and now that I’ve completed it, I can confirm that I never stopped smiling throughout my time with the game, with the Wonder Effects being one of the main reasons why. Of course, discovering these firsthand is a massive part of the fun, so I won’t go into specifics here beyond what I discussed in my preview, but needless to say, they’re so much more than a simple gimmick, but an intrinsic yet eccentric part of the experience. 

More intrinsic still is Wonder’s overall charm, which goes far beyond its bright, colorful coat of paint. Everyone and everything is so expressive: characters’ hats are seen almost flying off their heads when they plummet down gaps, their gaze grows more determined as they shift from a gentle stroll to a faster sprint, and Goombas look up in fear as they see you about to land on their heads. Certain details are hidden in the game’s music and sound effects, too: ground pounds are preceded by drum rolls, and background tracks lower in pitch when someone transforms into their chunky elephant form using an Elephant power-up. There are too many to list here, but all of these things contribute to Wonder feeling like the liveliest 2D Mario game to date - it feels like walking into a side-scrolling version of The Super Mario Bros. Movie.

 Badge of honor 

Super Mario Bros. Wonder doesn’t rely solely on Wonder Effects to spice up its platforming experience - the addition of Badges is an enormous deal for replayability, accessibility, and accommodating differing playstyles. There are numerous to unlock throughout the game, and they’re divided into three categories - Action, Boost, and Expert - and one can be equipped at a time. 

Boost Badges include the Auto Super Mushroom and Safety Bounce Badges - the first of which transforms player characters into their larger ‘Super’ forms at the start of each level (or each time they respawn), while the latter prevents them from dying by falling down pits or into lava. Elsewhere, Expert Badges such as Jet Run (which forces players to zoom forward without stopping) and Invisibility (you’ll never guess what that one does) exist to provide an extra challenge for anyone who dares take them on. 

Action Badges, like the self-explanatory Crouching High Jump and Parachute Cap Badges, give players new movement options which they can utilize at any point, giving Mario and his buddies new ways to run, leap, and soar. While none are required to access areas in any of the ‘regular’ levels (more on that shortly), they can make certain maneuvers easier, and it’s fantastic fun to explore stages in different ways by using alternate abilities. The feeling is almost akin to playing 3D Mario titles such as Odyssey, in which talented players can parkour and catapult themselves pretty much wherever they please with enough practice. 

I imagine that experimenting with Action Badges will be popular in the speedrunning community, although it’s worth noting that the double and triple jump,  previously included in past Mario games as built-in special moves, aren’t present in Wonder. This is a pity, as being able to combo these special jumps into Action Badges would have added even more possibilities for free-flowing action. 

Secrets, spice, and all things nice

Even if you’re not too bothered about mixing and matching the Badges you use during the majority of the game, Badge Challenge levels provide a short but sweet outlet to test your skills and learn the quirks of each ability in stages that are purpose-built to make use of them. These levels, alongside the bite-size ‘Break Time!’ stages (one of which, for example, has you knock out a few Piranha Plants on musical note blocks, before playing a nostalgic Mario tune) break up the longer regular stages nicely and help add even more variety to Wonder’s vast array of action. 

While some stages unlock in a linear manner, many can be accessed in any order in free-roam sections. Not only is this brilliant for the simple matter of being able to choose what sequence to play them in (which is a relief, as some are genuinely difficult), but these parts of the map can be home to secret areas and levels, encouraging players to investigate every last inch of the overworld. Secrets exist within courses, too - alternative exits and paths can be found in several levels, meaning there’s a great deal of replayability for anyone who wants to discover everything.

In case it wasn’t already abundantly clear, I adore Super Mario Bros. Wonder. Not only does it wholeheartedly feel like an innovative rebirth for 2D Mario, but it can’t be overstated how well-polished it is. As well as the adorable and amusing subtleties that populate every pixel and exude personality, the controls are responsive, everything runs smoothly even when the action gets chaotic, and in my time playing, I didn’t encounter any bugs or glitches. Although not an absolute necessity for enjoyment, Wonder looks stunning on the Nintendo Switch OLED, with the console’s screen suited to making vivid colors pop.

While I’ve completed literally everything that the game has to offer, I can’t stop thinking about Super Mario Bros. Wonder. It’s impossible to imagine it being anything but a must-play title for any Nintendo Switch owner - particularly for anyone who grew tired of the repetitive 2D New Super Mario Bros. series. If you like feeling happy, you’ll love Super Mario Bros. Wonder.

Accessibility features

Super Mario Bros. Wonder offers plenty of features for a more accessible experience. Controls can be adjusted, allowing players to swap the buttons used to jump and run, and controller vibration can be strengthened and weakened.

Of the 12 playable characters, Nabbit and the Yoshis are immune to damage, meaning that anyone can switch to them if they’re having trouble with a level. It does feel unfortunate, however, that this damage immunity can’t be applied to all characters, or removed from Yoshi and Nabbit if fans of the characters want to play without the additional feature.

The aforementioned Boost Badges, such as the Auto Super Mushroom Badge and Safety Bounce badge, are also very helpful in providing support to players as and when they need it. However, it’s worth noting that Badges must be unlocked, so they’re not all available right from the start of the game.

Elsewhere, Talking Flowers can speak in 15 different languages, and their dialogue is automatically subtitled - they can be adjusted to speak without subtitles, or just via in-game text.

How we reviewed

I spent around 27 hours playing Super Mario Bros. Wonder to 100% completion. It took me roughly 17 hours to finish the main story, but it could be done faster if players are less focused on finding all the collectibles and hidden levels. I played on a Nintendo Switch OLED model, in a mix of handheld and TV modes. 

For more Nintendo goodness, be sure to check out our list of the best Nintendo Switch games. You can also read our roundup of upcoming Switch games releasing in 2023 and beyond. 

It’s been revealed that during its development, the team behind Super Mario Bros. Wonder generated over 2,000 ideas for the game, including one from its sound director that would have added a huge live-action Mario to the game who said “boing” to himself. Unfortunately, that didn’t make the cut. 

In a new Ask the Developer interview posted on the official Nintendo website yesterday (October 17), members of the Super Mario Bros. Wonder development team spoke about how they came up with a new game “full of hidden surprises and wonders”. Game designer Koichi Hayashida explained that he wanted to apply some of the ideas behind the creation of 3D Mario games to Wonder, despite it being a 2D game, since the 3D titles are “a ‘toy box of ideas”. 

“With these things in mind, we decided to have an idea-sharing session,” Hayashida said. “Everyone from programmers to designers and sound designers joined in and wrote down gameplay ideas on sticky notes, which could be unrelated to their field of expertise, and we made prototypes on the spot. There were just so many ideas. Before this interview, I counted the number of sticky notes we had, and there were over 2,000!”

During this process, the team generated ideas such as the bending Warp Pipes that can be seen in the game’s first trailer, and after lots of prototyping, ultimately discovered what director Shiro Mouri referred to as the “core” of the game. He noted: “This is a rather drastic approach, but first, you've got to take everything to the extreme. If you think you've gone too far, you can make adjustments later.”

Speaking of going to the extreme, the aforementioned live-action Mario idea was generated by Wonder’s sound director, Koji Kondo, who explained: “I shared the idea of an eight-heads-tall, life-sized, live-action Mario humming along with the background music as he goes along. [...] When he jumps, he says to himself, ‘Boing!’ ...The idea was never used, though. I felt I had to take the lead in going to the extreme.”

I don’t know about you, but if Wonder ever receives DLC later down the line, I know what I want to see.

Super Mario Bros. Wonder is one of this year’s most exciting upcoming Switch games, but if you’re looking for something to play right away, be sure to check out our list of the best Nintendo Switch games.

Ahead of the launch of Super Mario Bros. Wonder, the 2D side-scrolling platformer’s producer, Takashi Tezuka, has revealed that there’s no strict plan for future Mario games to follow the same game style as this month’s upcoming release. In fact, Nintendo currently isn’t sure what the style for the mustachioed plumber’s next installments will be at all.

This update came in an interview with Game Informer, in which Tezuka stated: "I believe that we have transitioned from the New Super Mario Bros. series into a new phase, but at this point, we have no idea what the next game style will be.”

Adding onto this, art director Masanobu Sato said: “However, what we do know is that Super Mario Bros. Wonder has set a bigger stage for adventure for Mario and friends.”

Although it’s not out yet, Super Mario Bros. Wonder has already received a number of positive pre-launch previews. In our extended preview, I wrote that “I’ve never played a game that’s made me smile as fast as Super Mario Bros. Wonder", and that “the vibrant, cheery colors, upbeat tunes, and overall sense of (dare I say it) wonder is overwhelming” from the moment you start playing. 

Despite this positivity, some fans may be relieved that Nintendo isn’t certain about adopting a go-to formula for the Mario series going forward, since many argue that the New Super Mario Bros. series, which dominated the mid-2000s and 2010s with six releases (including a Nintendo Switch port of New Super Mario Bros. U) started to feel quite repetitive after a while, even though each title was well received. You can have too much of a good thing, after all. 

Super Mario Bros. Wonder is one of this year’s most hotly anticipated upcoming Nintendo Switch games. If you’re looking for something to play right now on Nintendo’s console, you can find some brilliant recommendations on our list of the best Nintendo Switch games.

I’ve never played a game that’s made me smile as fast as Super Mario Bros. Wonder. From the moment you set foot into the moustachioed plumber’s latest 2D side-scrolling, platforming adventure, the vibrant, cheery colors, upbeat tunes, and overall sense of (dare I say it) wonder is overwhelming. 

Let’s get one thing out of the way. Since the release of Super Mario Maker and its sequel, which allow fans to create their own unique side-scrolling levels, complete with pretty much whatever enemies and power-ups they want, some have argued that there’s no longer a need for a new 2D Mario game when we can play through an endless stream of high-quality user-generated content. However, from what I’ve played so far, Wonder quickly shuts this argument down and offers plenty to set itself apart from previous entries in the series.

As you’d expect, Super Mario Bros. Wonder’s titular Wonder Effects are one of the main changes to the usual 2D Mario formula. By discovering a Wonder Flower in a level, you can trigger a bizarre Wonder Effect that can transform how the level looks or acts. We highlighted some of these in our Nintendo Live demo preview, such as the wiggling, sentient warp pipes that can be ridden in one of the first world’s courses. Still, one later level transforms an enemy - which is essentially an angry, living stamp - to be absolutely enormous while you’re stuck in a cave filled with rocks and crystals of different heights. Faced with this, you must figure out safe places to crouch while the foe crushes everything else in its wake.

Visually, Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a delight. Mario, his friends, and the enemies that fill the game have never looked more alive, with fluid animations and subtle but endearing expressions to react to the events going on around them. 

Characters using the Elephant power-up (a new ability which transforms characters into large, elephant forms, complete with a trunk) struggle to squeeze through pipes. At the same time, regular-sized Mario and Luigi can be seen grabbing their hats as they dive through them. Throwing a shell in the direction of a Koopa Troopa will visibly spook them, even if it doesn’t land. When approaching an enemy unarmed, you can see their brows lower as they get serious about causing one of the main cast to lose a power-up (or life). 

Top trunks

Speaking of power-ups, the Elephant, Drill and Bubble abilities are all exciting additions which help spice up the 2D platformer. Elephant-form characters are vast and powerful - they can smash through multiple blocks at a time with a swing of their trunks, which can also be filled with water to spray onto things (such as dried-out plants, which grant rewards when watered). Meanwhile, the Drill power-up allows characters to dig and travel below ground or in the ceiling, which is very handy for discovering otherwise hidden areas or secrets. Bubble can be used to - you guessed it - fire out a stream of bubbles, which can be used to capture, stun, and eliminate enemies, or even form temporary platforms (which pop as soon as you bounce from them).

It’s not just the usual Goombas and Koopa Troopas that Mario and his friends are faced with, though - there are several brand new enemies to cause trouble, too. The cute, bull-like Bulrush is a sturdy foe who’ll charge mercilessly in your direction as soon as it sees you - but it can also crash through otherwise unbreakable blocks while doing so, so make of that what you will. Blewbirds, on the other hand, shoot out straw-like tubes from their beaks, which will damage you if you get in the way, but they can also stick to walls and be used as platforms to hop to new parts of the level. My personal favorite, the Maw-Maws, are hungry fellas who stretch their huge mouths open and run at things they want to eat, including other enemies and even precious collectibles.

Players can collect several Badges throughout Wonder, each of which grants a different ability. The Parachute Cap Badge proved to be my go-to in the earlier levels - it allows any character to glide after they jump, which is very useful for traveling more considerable distances and making it to the top of the Flag Poles at the end of courses. However, it’s far from the only highlight, as numerous abilities can be utilized to customize your character’s movement, make things easier for yourself, or even add some extra challenge.

Platforming prowess

For example, the Wall-Climb Jump Badge provides the ability to bounce up a wall instead of just pinging off of it with a regular wall jump. However, it can still be executed before a wall jump to traverse particularly tricky terrain. Meanwhile, the Safety Bounce is perfect for anyone who finds themselves regularly falling down pits, as it’ll save you from fall-related deaths. The Invisibility badge does exactly what it says on the tin and makes you disappear from the screen. While this means that enemies can’t see you, you can’t either, which can make navigating gaps particularly treacherous.

There’s still plenty for me to discover in Super Mario Bros. Wonder, but the experience so far has been utterly joyous. It’s got its hooks into me, and I’m super keen to discover what other Wonder Events await and sniff out any secret paths and courses hiding on the overworld map. It remains to be seen if it has what it takes to be one of the best Nintendo Switch games, but it’s shaping up to be incredibly promising.

Super Mario Bros. Wonder is one of this year’s most exciting upcoming Switch games. If you want to kit yourself out with some top-notch hardware ahead of its release, be sure to take a look at our roundup of the best Nintendo Switch accessories.

Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa has confirmed that the company will continue to support the Nintendo Switch next year with new software planned for 2025.

Furukawa was asked in a recent interview with Nikkei (translated via VGC) whether the handheld will continue to see support now that it's six and a half years into its life cycle. 

The president responded by saying that Nintendo will continue its focus on the Switch until the fiscal year ending March 2024 and the console will continue to see new games until 2025.

"We are still working on software for the Switch for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025," Furukawa said.

"In the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024, we hope to sustain the momentum of Zelda and the [Super Mario Bros] movie, with focus on the holiday sales season. As for hardware, we will maximize not only new demand for the hardware, but also for those buying second consoles and replacements."

For the rest of 2023, Nintendo is preparing to release two new titles, including Super Mario Bros. Wonder and the Super Mario RPG Remake, both of which are launching at the end of 2023. 

We already know some games planned for next year, including Princess Peach: Showtime, which is currently slated for a late March 2024 release, as well as Luigi's Mansion 2 HD remake to look forward to. There's no release window just yet, but it's expected to launch around mid-2024. 

The latest Nintendo Direct from September 14 also confirmed that Side Order, Wave Two of the Splatoon 3: Expansion Pass is coming in Spring 2024, so there's already a bunch of titles to anticipate next year, on top of what Nintendo has yet to announce for the rest of the year and 2025. 

For more, check out our top picks for the best Nintendo Switch games you can play right now, as well as the best single-player games to enjoy solo.

Princess Peach: Showtime is out now, and strays from the traditional location of the Mushroom Kingdom which we typically see in Mario games. Instead, this adventure offers a new experience with Princess Peach where you'll take to the stage in an entirely new style of Mario game.

We've now played Princess Peach Showtime. You can read our thoughts in our Princess Peach Showtime review. In it, we praised the game's adorable visuals, great boss fights and approachable difficulty.

Here's what you need to know about Princess Peach Showtime, including how it differs from a standard Super Mario Bros. title. 

Princess Peach Showtime - cut to the chase 

• What is it? A new addition to the Mario series starring Peach as the protagonist
• When can I play it? Out now!
• What can I play it on? Nintendo Switch 
• Who makes it? Nintendo

Princess Peach Showtime release date and platforms

Princess Peach: Showtime! released exclusively on Nintendo Switch on March 22, 2024. Due to being a Mario Bros. adjacent story, it was only ever going to be a Nintendo system exclusive. 

As the first Princess Peach-central game for the series in 18 years, it's got some pretty big boots to fill. The last Mario game to feature Princess Peach as the protagonist, Super Princess Peach, was released in 2005 for Nintendo DS. While it doesn't quite rank as one of the very best Nintendo DS games, it’s still worth checking out if you’re looking for a pretty-in-pink game to spend your time playing while you wait for the launch of Showtime. 

Princess Peach Showtime trailers

The most recent trailer for Princess Peach: Showtime! walks us through the story of the game, where Peach and two toads are visiting the Sparkle Theatre after receiving a flyer for a play. However, when they arrive, the Wicked Grape and the Sour Bunch appear before the trailer begins to show us some in-game footage of Peach jumping into action to save the theatre. The video ends with the release date reveal. Check out the full trailer below:  

Princess Peach Showtime gameplay

As the gameplay in the trailer above shows, throughout Princess Peach: Showtime! you will take on several different roles through different costumes, each with unique abilities that will help you progress through the game and face off with the Sour Bunch. Stella, the guardian of the theatre also serves as Peach’s form of attack within the game, breaking parts of the set that are blocking you from progressing through various levels. 

However, Stella alone isn’t enough to complete Showtime and save the plays that have been stolen, which is where Peach’s theatrical abilities come in incredibly handy - Peach can take on several alter egos during the game and these are the key to success.

Depending on which play you are working toward saving, Peach will have an outfit change and take on numerous different abilities to coincide with each new area. For example, the newest trailer shows off Kung-Fu Peach, who is quick to attack and engages in fast combat similar to swordfighter Peach, whereas Detective Peach relies on her ability to discover clues and solve mysteries rather than getting so hands-on with the Sour Bunch. These different settings and abilities are bound to shake up the in-game content and keep things exciting rather than the game following the traditional platforming element of Mario titles. 

In addition to this, each setting appears to have a number of mini-game-like sections, such as what appear to be quick-time events during combat, or icing a cake as Patisserie Peach, so we're anticipating a lot of variety within the different areas you explore and Peach’s many forms. A lot of these minigames appear to function similarly to Mario Party, where things are timed and fast-paced to keep players on their toes, all without disrupting the pace of the game. 

Finally, it seems as if a boss fight concludes each stolen play, which is incredibly similar to reaching the end of a world within a traditional Mario Bros. game and facing off with the boss in Bowser’s Castle. Because of this, we are questioning if each stolen play will serve in a similar way as these worlds, and if this is the start of a series of Peach games.  

Princess Peach Showtime story and setting

The story of Princess Peach: Showtime! follows Princess Peach in the theatre, facing off against the Wicked Grape and the Sour Bunch who have taken center stage and made Peach’s perfect performance a terrible tragedy. Because of this, she will have to adorn her best costume and save the play. 

Stella, the theatre’s guardian, has noticed what has happened and wishes to help Peach in her endeavors and gifts her a ribbon, which grants Peach a series of abilities that become essential during the adventure and helps perform attacks.

As the title of the game suggests, Princess Peach: Showtime! is set on stage, and takes place at the Sparkle Theatre, which is reflected through the various levels and abilities Peach will adopt throughout the story. Going off the trailers we’ve seen so far, it seems as though Peach won’t venture out of the theatre, and each new setting and play Peach is attempting to save will be constructed using set pieces to coincide with the theme and ability active.

We’ve had a brief look at some of the plays Peach will have to save, such as a museum and a bakery, but we’re hoping to see a look at more of the settings we can expect to explore the closer we get to the release date, hopefully with another in-game trailer a few months before the game launches.

Princess Peach Showtime news

Princess Peach: Showtime! box art has been altered, changing Peach's appearance
The box art for Princess Peach: Showtime has been updated, altering Peach's appearance to look more like her Super Mario Bros Movie counterpart rather than her in-game appearance. Whether this will also be altered within the game itself is yet to be announced or spotlighted in a Nintendo Direct or trailer. 

Princess Peach: Showtime! receives a title and a release date
Following an incredibly short announcement trailer, Princess Peach: Showtime has received a more in-depth trailer exploring the story and setting for the game, alongside several in-game features and abilities we can expect Princess Peach to take on during the game. In addition to this, the game has received its full title - Princess Peach: Showtime - and a release date of March 22, 2024. 

A Princess Peach game is in the works
Within the June 2023 Nintendo Direct, an untitled Princess Peach game was announced. We didn’t see any in-game content, nor did we receive a title or a release date, and the trailer itself was incredibly short.

If you want to enjoy some of Nintendo's older games, you might want to check out our lists of the best Nintendo 3DS games and the best GBA games. However, if you're looking for some games to keep on your radar that aren't exclusive to Nintendo Switch, it's worth checking out our upcoming games list too alongside the best Nintendo Switch games. 

If you were thinking Super Mario Bros Wonder is just going to be another 2D Mario, there's little that will change your mind. But the good news is, this is another excellent 2D Mario game.

Arriving on Switch on October 20th, Super Mario Bros Wonder is the first 2D Mario game since 2012's Wii U launch title New Super Mario Bros U, and the first to drop the 'New' moniker since gaming's foremost man of plumbing returned to his 2D roots on DS in 2006.

As soon as you get the Nintendo Switch controller in your hands, everything is familiar. Mario jumps the way he's always jumped, you can wall jump and butt stomp, and the goal is to get from the left end of the level to the right, jump on the flag, course clear, rinse, lather, repeat.

1-Up

While it doesn't feel as fresh or different as New Super Mario Bros did in 2006, it does feel like something more than yet another sequel in that sub-series. It's perhaps better viewed as a further refinement of the formula, akin to how Super Mario Odyssey perfected the Super Mario 64 structure.

For example, you can now play through courses in any order, which removes the frustration of having to replay the same levels until you're able to continue or being locked to branching paths on the world map. Courses have difficulty ratings so you know what you're about to face, allowing you to seek easier alternatives if you prefer (not that any of the early-game levels in our demo were particularly difficult). 

Completing each course earns you Wonder Seeds, which are used to unlock more parts of the world. There was also a rock blocking a path in the overworld in our demo, which could suggest other puzzles and events that open new levels – although it could also have been to limit Nintendo Live attendees to the first area.

You also earn Wonder Seeds with the new Wonder sections of each level. Touch a Wonder flower and the course transforms; pipes come alive, a stampede of bull-like creatures trundles through, and so on. Some of these sections are just about reaching the Wonder Seed at the end, and others challenge you to escape a giant crushing block or chase a weasel-like Skedaddle to claim the seed it swiped. The craziness level amps up, as does the fun, and there's usually a lot of momentum so it can be hard to take in everything that's happening on the screen – but it's hard to be overwhelmed when you're so intent on grabbing every purple coin and finding the seed.

It's entirely possible (although unlikely) to miss these Wonder sections in each level, but the fact you need seeds to unlock other worlds shows Nintendo is still keen for players to uncover every last secret of each course. Even after playing the 15-minute demo three times, there were still areas we wanted to go back and check to see what was missed.

A whole new world

If you want a break from the standard courses, there are other types of levels to try. Badge Challenges teach you a skill, then reward you with a badge dedicated to it, such as a wall jump that allows you to spring up to the next ledge rather than away. Badges give you handy extra abilities, like attracting coins from further away or holding R to float across gaps with your hat, but you can only use one at a time, which encourages experimentation as you seek out each level's secrets. More badges can be purchased from the overworld shops with the purple coins you collect.

There are also mini-game levels that are over in less than a minute and bag you another Wonder Seed. The one we tried involved bashing musical blocks to knock out piranha plants, all to the tune of classic Mario music, so we suspect there are more nostalgia-centric mini-games to amuse long-time fans. 

While it can still feel like typical Mario fare, there are enough unique qualities that distinguish Wonder as something new – and a large part of this is the delightful new art style. This is the first overhaul in character design that Mario has had since 2006, and while initially it's a little jarring, it's subtle enough that it still feels familiar. It's a little more cartoony, the characters are more expressive, and the vibrant color palate makes it clear this is a game that wants to have fun.

This is emphasized further by the little details in the animation. Goombas run in wide-eyed terror as Elephant Mario approaches, Mario and his friends peek cautiously out of pipes before exiting (emphasizing how reckless they have been for the past 38 years), and elephant versions get wedged when entering and exiting said pipes. It's the sort of animation where you'll be noticing new quirks for weeks, if not months, each one raising a smile.

Enough Power-Ups to go around 

Then there are the latest power-ups. Elephant Mario is clearly the star, enabling you to smash through bricks and spray water on flowers, usually to make more coins appear. It's safe to assume the elephant form will turn up in a significant chunk of the levels, hopefully with more interesting uses for the spray.

Even more fun to play was Drill Mario, which allows you to drill down through blocks - when butt stomping fails - but also burrow into the ground so you can pass under certain walls into new areas. You can even drill into the ceiling, so expect plenty of secrets that can only be uncovered this way. As with recent Mario games, you can keep power-ups in reserve - up to four if you have four players. 

There are 12 playable characters to choose from: Mario, Luigi, Peach, Daisy, two Toads, Toadette, four Yoshis, and Nabbit. A few have their own unique abilities; Yoshi, for example, can do the usual flutter jump and eat enemies. The Yoshis and Nabbit also have the advantage that they don't take damage (although you can still die if you fall down a pit), but the compromise is that they can't use power-ups either. We tried both out and while they're perfect for young kids or assisting parents, you can't help but feel you're not getting the full experience.

With so many characters available, multiplayer is back. As always, the game becomes utterly chaotic with four players, especially during the Wonder sections, and it's difficult to keep up with what's happening – particularly if a more experienced or impatient player is just barrelling ahead. At this stage, it's doubtful 2D Mario will ever work well as a four-player game, but that doesn't mean it can't still be fun to leap and stomp through levels together.

We didn't get a chance to try out the new online modes, where you're surrounded by the ghosts of other players and can leave standees of your character as a revive point for those who fall. But the fact that Super Mario Bros Wonder includes online functionality on top of the usual single-player and local game shows that Nintendo is not exactly phoning this one in.

Super Mario Bros Wonder is an excellent 2D Mario game. It may not feel quite like a tentpole release in the same way as Odyssey, but it was unlikely to be this close to the end of the Switch's lifecycle, and it does feel like Nintendo is finally taking a step forward from the New series it's been iterating on for nearly 20 years. For those who have been yearning for more classic Mario platforming since 2012 (if you haven't already tired of building your own in Mario Maker) - or, frankly, anyone who enjoys a spot of classic Mario – this is shaping up to be an essential purchase.

If you're looking for more Switch inspiration, then check out our best Nintendo Switch games guide, as well as our rundown of the upcoming and new Switch games we know are in the works.

An all-new world record has been set for speedrunning Super Mario Bros. only 395 days since the last record was set. 

Previously, the fastest speedrun time was held by Niftski, sitting at 4:54.798, but on September 6, Niftski one-upped this original record by completing the run at 4:54.63. At first glance, this might not seem like a drastic improvement, but when you look more into the details of why this is such a feat, the .167-second difference becomes much more impressive. The full run can be seen below:

What makes Super Mario Bros. a bit of an oddball in speedrunning is a hidden in-game timer that checks every 21 frames to track when you’ve completed a level. This cycle repeats even once you’ve reached the end of a level and jumped the flagpole, meaning you can't progress to the next level until the next frame rule rolls around. 

Due to this rule, there is a specific minimum timeframe that each level can be completed within, and Niftski’s newest record marks the first successful human attempt at getting the fastest frame cycle. With the assistance of emulators, programmed inputs, and save states, faster runs have been completed, but these attempts don’t count toward the world record which makes Niftski’s run more monumental. 

However, there is an exception to the frame rule which is implemented within the final level of the game, 8-4. Rather than continuing the 21-frame rule, the game goes straight to ending once Bowser is defeated, saving some precious seconds. 

"There are no more frame rules left to be saved, so this is now a battle of the remaining 8-4 frames! Only 22 frames, or 0.366 seconds, separate this run from absolute perfection.” Niftski stated at the end of the run, before stressing that this run is not the end goal and this will not be the end of attempts to shave off those last few seconds. 

If you’re looking for more Super Mario Bros. action, you might want to check out everything we know about Super Mario Bros. Wonder, or possibly some of the best GBA games for those looking to re-visit some classic titles.  

Charles Martinet has explained the meaning behind his new role as Mario ambassador after stepping down from voicing the iconic character last month. 

Speaking in a special message from Nintendo today, Martinet finally offered an explanation for his new role as Mario ambassador following the announcement of his departure as the voice of Mario.

"Today is a very big day for Nintendo, the Mushroom Kingdom and for me," Martinet said. "You may know me from voicing characters from Nintendo’s games like Super Mario, Luigi, Wario and Waluigi, and today I’m happy to share with all of you that I’m stepping into a brand new role as the Mario Ambassador."

The voice actor went on to explain that his new role will find him travelling all over the world and "sharing the joy of the Mario family, and being able to continue meeting with all of you wonderful fans, who I cherish absolutely the most".

Nintendo's Shigeru Miyamoto also made an appearance in the video to reminisce on his working relationship with Martinet over the years, revealing that the voice actor would call him "Papa" whenever they met. 

"You have travelled the world visiting events, joyfully performing the voice of Mario for fans, and putting smiles on people’s faces," Miyamoto said.

It's unclear at this time who will be replacing Martinet as the voice actor for Mario, but Miyamoto said that starting with the release of Super Mario Bros Wonder in October, "the voices of some Mario characters have become new, so please check them out".

Martinet began working for Nintendo in 1991 and made his first video game appearance as Mario in the CD-ROM version of Mario Teaches Typing in 1994. The voice actor has went on to become a household name, playing various other characters such as Luigi, Wario, and Waluigi.

For more, check out our top picks for the best Nintendo Switch games, which includes this year's Tears of the Kingdom, as well as all the upcoming Switch games of 2023 and beyond. 

We may have heard Mario and Luigi’s new voices in Super Mario Bros. Wonder, but Nintendo will not be confirming who is voicing them until the game’s release, according to Nintendo president Doug Bowser.

Last month, it was announced that Charles Martinet, who has been the voice of Mario, Luigi, Wario, Waluigi, and more iconic Mario series characters for decades, will no longer be voicing any Nintendo characters going forward. Instead, he will be taking on the role of ‘Mario Ambassador’, and if you’re wondering what that means, you’re not alone - Martinet recently admitted he doesn’t know yet, himself.

Nintendo previously confirmed that the change in voice actor is going to come into effect very soon, as Martinet is “not involved” with the upcoming Nintendo Switch game, Super Mario Bros. Wonder. In an interview with IGN at Nintendo Live in Seattle, Washington, Bowser (the president, not King Koopa) spoke about Martinet’s change in role, but also confirmed that there are currently no plans to reveal the identity of the new voice actor before the information is unveiled via Super Mario Bros. Wonder’s credits. 

“I think people have recognized this when they see Super Mario Bros. Wonder, they'll hear a different voice and we'll let that play out and that'll be within the credits, and people will learn who the new person is at that point in time, but we don't plan to make any announcement in advance of that,” he said. 

Interestingly, this does seem to imply that one individual will be voicing both Mario and Luigi, much like how Martinet did up to this point. It’s not clear if this same person will also fill in for the rest of Martinet’s former roles such as Wario and Waluigi, however. 

If you’re looking for some new Nintendo Switch games to play right now, be sure to take a look at our recommendations for the best Nintendo Switch games. You can also check out what other games are around the corner with our roundup of upcoming games.

Voice actor Charles Martinet, who provided the voice of Mario, Luigi, Wario, Waluigi, and other iconic characters for decades, has spoken publicly about his new 'Mario Ambassador' role, and has revealed that he’s not entirely sure what it will consist of yet, either.

The news that Martinet is stepping down from his Mario series roles was confirmed last month in an official social media post from Nintendo. At the time, the company wrote: “Charles is now moving into the brand new role of Mario Ambassador. With this transition, he will be stepping back from recording character voices for our games, but he’ll continue to travel the world sharing the joy of Mario and interacting with you all!”

As Nintendo Everything reports, Martinet spoke about this during a Q&A panel at GalaxyCon in Austin, Texas last week: “I am now - you might have seen the news - a Mario Ambassador,” he said. “I don’t know what that is yet. I’m not retired, as it were. [...] I’m an Ambassador. And as we step forward into the future, I will learn – we’ll all learn – what exactly that is.

“But in the meantime, you know, I’ll be ‘ambassading’ as I always am,” he continued. “I’m always an ambassador of Nintendo and Mario at all these events because I just cherish every moment of it, and I hope that your love of the game continues and grows the way mine does.”

At the time of writing, it’s not known who will serve as the voice of Mario and the others from now on, but Nintendo previously clarified that Martinet is “not involved” with the upcoming 2D Mario game, Super Mario Bros. Wonder, which is releasing on Nintendo Switch on October 20. With that in mind, we’ve already heard both Mario and Luigi’s new voices in the game trailers, even if the actor's identity remains a mystery.

Be sure to take a look at our list of upcoming Switch games if you’re wondering what other games are set to release soon. You can also see our recommendations for the best Nintendo Switch games to play right now.

Super Mario Bros. Wonder’s talkative flowers can be silenced, but you won’t be able to entirely escape their hints and comments, Nintendo has confirmed. 

As has been shown in the game’s trailers, in the upcoming 2D Mario game, alongside the elephant power-up and zany moments of surprise triggered by the game’s mysterious ‘Wonder Flowers’, the colorful world is also populated by cheerful speaking flowers. It’s quite rare to see Mario characters speaking in full sentences (although it has happened on multiple occasions in the past), but these floral friends are fully fluent in their speech.

Based on the in-game footage that’s been revealed so far, the phrases the flowers say range from quick quips and funny comments to hints at how to proceed in levels. Now, Eurogamer reports that it’s been confirmed that players will be able to switch off either the text or audio dialogue for the flowers - but not both. So it’s not going to be possible to play without getting some help from them.

Typically, traditional 2D Mario games don’t tend to contain that many head-scratching situations, so it seems unlikely that the flowers’ presence will detract from players’ enjoyment that much (unless playing Undertale made them permanently distrustful of any flora or fauna that has a grasp of the human language). Hopefully, it could lead to some more meme-worthy moments when the game releases - the internet has already seen more than its fair share of one of the flowers saying “well then” in response to Elephant Mario sending a sleeping Goomba flying off the screen. 

There’s not too much longer to wait for Super Mario Bros. Wonder - it’s set to launch exclusively on Nintendo Switch on October 20.

For more upcoming games, be sure to check out our roundup of upcoming Nintendo Switch games for 2023 and beyond. But if you want something for the here and now, check out our picks of the best Nintendo Switch games out now.

Nintendo has announced the new Mario Red Edition Nintendo Switch OLED console, and it's going to be available on October 6, 2023. Pre-orders are available now through Nintendo directly with a price of $349.99. 

Revealed during the recent Super Mario Bros. Wonder Direct, the console becomes the latest in a growing list of themed Nintendo Switch OLED variants, and its release is roughly in line with the game's - it'll come two weeks before Wonder releases. Coming together means it could provide a perfect opportunity for fans of Mario and Nintendo to embrace the upgrade to OLED, or to jump in at the deep end for those who have yet to pick up what is one of the best handheld games consoles. 

In terms of design, the Mario Red Edition Nintendo Switch console certainly lives up to its namesake as both the dock and the Joy-Cons are adorned in the plumber's iconic colorway. Things are kept quite understated instead of being too over-the-top however, with a silhouette of Mario in the bottom left-hand corner on the dock, and a group of golden coins painted on the rear I/O. The details are quite subtle. 

As with some other high-profile Nintendo Switch games that have received custom console variants, such as The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, no copy of the game is included in the package physically or via download. You can pre-purchase now from the My Nintendo Store in the US for $349.99, with availability in the UK and Australia likely forthcoming. 

Super Mario Bros. Wonder is one of the biggest upcoming games for fans of old-school 2D platformer action. It's been 10 years since the last official mainline release, with New Super Mario Bros. U hitting shelves digitally and physically back in 2013. While this title did get a Nintendo Switch port in early 2019, fans wanting something wholly original have waited a while. Teaming it with this special console design seems like the perfect way to welcome the series back to the fore.

Ensure you've got enough room for all the best Nintendo Switch games with the best SD cards for Switch, and gear up for Super Mario Bros. Wonder with one of the best Nintendo Switch controllers, too.