New Super Mario Bros. U is a side-scrolling platformer in the Super Mario series developed for the Wii U.
Easy to Play
Exceptional Learning
Great Graphics/Art
Great Music
Click a title to learn more about each topic.
Story & Themes
In New Super Mario Bros. U, Bowser and the Koopalings are up to their old tricks. However, instead of kidnapping Princess Peach and whisking her away, Bowser opts to fling Mario, Luigi, and the Toads far away from Peach's castle using a mechanical arm. Mario and his friends must rescue Peach by battling the Koopalings at various castles scattered throughout different worlds until, finally, they are able to face off with Bowser at Peach's castle.
New Super Mario Bros. U has a particular focus on teamwork. Though the game can be played alone, it is much more manageable with the help of others.
Save Points
The game allows players to save after completing every castle level. Players can also Quick Save from the map screen.
Difficulty
The game's controls are simple and easy to master, though the overall difficulty is lessened by playing in co-op mode. Regardless, New Super Mario Bros. U is definitely family-friendly.
Heads Up!
Violence Violence in the game is of the usual Mario variety. Players can defeat enemies by jumping on their heads or using a special ability.
Consumerism New Super Mario Bros. U is a part of the massive Mario Bros. franchise, so some consumerism is implicit. However, there are not any microtransactions or the like in the game.
Discrimination Princess Peach in New Super Mario Bros. U is a prime example of the damsel in distress trope. She exists solely to be saved, and plays no larger part in the story.
Online Community
The game doesn't support online multiplayer, but it does allow players to connect to the Miiverse which is Nintendo's online community.
Conversation Starters
- Which level is your favorite? Why?
- How do you feel about the damsel-in-distress trope as it pertains to Princess Peach? Why is it problematic or harmful? Can you can think of other examples of the trope in popular media?
- Do you like playing the game with other people through local co-op mode? Why or why not? What qualities does it take to be a good team player?
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