Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury: A Roaring Good Time!
Hey guys! Get ready for a wild ride because we're diving deep into Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury, a fantastic package that brings together classic platforming with a fresh, open-world twist. Whether you're a long-time Mario fan or new to the Mushroom Kingdom, there's something here for everyone. Let's break down what makes this game such a must-play.
What is Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury?
At its heart, Mario 3D World is a delightful multiplayer platformer originally released on the Wii U. It's known for its vibrant levels, creative power-ups, and the ability to play with up to four players simultaneously. You can choose from Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Toad, each with their unique abilities, as you journey through the Sprixie Kingdom to rescue the Sprixie Princesses from Bowser. But the adventure doesn't stop there! Bowser's Fury is a brand-new, standalone adventure included in this package. It introduces an open-world environment where Mario teams up with Bowser Jr. to stop a gigantic, furious Bowser. This mode brings a dynamic weather system, intense boss battles, and a more expansive exploration experience, blending the classic Mario gameplay with a breath of fresh air. Together, these two games offer a diverse and engaging experience that showcases the best of Mario's platforming prowess.
Classic Fun: Mario 3D World
A Nostalgic Journey
Mario 3D World is more than just a port; it's a polished and enhanced version of a beloved Wii U title. The game shines with its colorful graphics, charming characters, and inventive level design. Each world is packed with unique themes and challenges, from underwater ruins to cloud kingdoms, keeping the gameplay fresh and exciting. One of the standout features is the Super Bell, which transforms the characters into adorable cats, allowing them to climb walls and pounce on enemies. This power-up adds a whole new dimension to the platforming, encouraging players to explore every nook and cranny of the levels. The game’s multiplayer mode is a chaotic blast, perfect for playing with friends and family. Coordinating jumps and power-ups while trying not to accidentally throw each other off platforms creates hilarious and memorable moments. Whether you're a seasoned Mario veteran or a newcomer, Mario 3D World offers a delightful and accessible platforming experience that will keep you entertained for hours.
Multiplayer Mayhem
The multiplayer in Mario 3D World is where the game truly shines. Grab up to three friends, and you're in for a chaotic, laugh-filled experience. Playing as Mario, Luigi, Peach, or Toad, each with their unique abilities, you'll navigate the vibrant levels together. Luigi's higher jump, Peach's float, and Toad's speed add layers of strategy and fun. The competitive spirit is high as you race to grab power-ups, stomp on enemies, and reach the flagpole first. Friendly fire is always on, so watch out for accidental bumps and shoves! Despite the potential for chaos, teamwork is essential. Coordinating jumps, sharing power-ups, and reviving fallen teammates can make the difference between success and failure. The game's design encourages cooperation while still allowing for plenty of individual expression and competition. Whether you're working together to solve puzzles or sabotaging each other for a laugh, the multiplayer in Mario 3D World is an unforgettable experience.
Power-Ups and Gameplay
Mario 3D World is renowned for its inventive and delightful power-ups that add layers of fun and strategy to the classic Mario gameplay. The Super Bell, which transforms characters into cats, is a standout. Cat Mario can climb walls, pounce on enemies, and perform diving attacks, opening up new paths and secrets within the levels. The Double Cherry is another highlight, creating clones of your character that mimic your every move. Controlling multiple Marios at once can be challenging but also incredibly rewarding, especially when solving puzzles or overwhelming enemies. Classic power-ups like the Fire Flower and Super Star make a return, providing familiar offensive capabilities. The Boomerang Flower allows you to toss boomerangs at enemies and collect distant items, while the Mega Mushroom turns you into a giant, temporarily destroying everything in your path. These power-ups not only enhance the gameplay but also encourage exploration and experimentation, adding to the game's overall charm and replayability. Each power-up offers a unique way to tackle challenges and discover hidden areas, ensuring that every playthrough feels fresh and exciting.
A New Adventure: Bowser's Fury
Open-World Mario
Bowser's Fury takes the Mario formula and throws it into an open-world setting, creating a unique and exhilarating experience. This standalone adventure sees Mario teaming up with Bowser Jr. to stop a colossal, enraged Bowser. The game takes place in Lake Lapcat, a sprawling area filled with islands, ruins, and secrets to discover. The open-world design allows for seamless exploration, with no loading screens between areas. You're free to roam around, complete challenges, and collect Cat Shines at your own pace. The dynamic weather system adds another layer of immersion, as the world shifts between calm, sunny days and stormy, lava-filled chaos when Fury Bowser appears. The sense of freedom and discovery is a refreshing departure from the linear structure of traditional Mario games, offering a more expansive and immersive adventure. Whether you're sailing across the lake on Plessie, climbing mountains, or diving into underwater ruins, Bowser's Fury provides a thrilling and engaging open-world experience.
Fury Bowser
The defining feature of Bowser's Fury is the imposing presence of Fury Bowser, a gigantic and enraged version of the iconic villain. This monstrous Bowser periodically emerges from the lake, unleashing fiery attacks and transforming the environment into a volcanic wasteland. The battles against Fury Bowser are epic and intense, requiring you to utilize all your skills and power-ups to survive. To defeat him, you must collect Cat Shines to activate the Giga Bell, which transforms Mario into a massive, feline-like form known as Giga Cat Mario. These battles are visually stunning, with the screen filled with fire, lava, and explosions. Fury Bowser's appearances also change the landscape, revealing new areas and challenges that were previously inaccessible. The constant threat of Fury Bowser keeps you on your toes, adding a sense of urgency and excitement to the exploration. Overcoming Fury Bowser is a satisfying and rewarding experience, solidifying his place as one of the most formidable and memorable villains in Mario history.
Bowser Jr.'s Assistance
In Bowser's Fury, Mario finds an unlikely ally in Bowser Jr., who seeks his help to calm his rampaging father. This partnership adds a unique dynamic to the gameplay. Bowser Jr. accompanies Mario on his adventure, providing assistance in various ways. He can attack enemies with his paintbrush, reveal hidden blocks, and even fly Mario across gaps. You can customize Bowser Jr.'s level of assistance, making him more or less active depending on your preference. For solo players, Bowser Jr. is controlled by the AI, but in two-player mode, a second player can take control of him, adding a cooperative element to the game. Bowser Jr.'s presence not only enhances the gameplay but also adds depth to the story. Witnessing his concern for his father and his willingness to work with Mario creates a surprisingly heartwarming narrative. This unlikely alliance is one of the highlights of Bowser's Fury, showcasing the power of friendship and redemption.
Is It Worth It?
Absolutely! Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury is a fantastic package that offers hours of fun and adventure. Mario 3D World provides a classic multiplayer platforming experience, while Bowser's Fury introduces a fresh, open-world twist. The enhanced graphics, improved gameplay, and new content make this a must-have for any Switch owner. Whether you're playing solo or with friends, there's always something new to discover and enjoy. So grab your Switch, gather your friends, and get ready for a roaring good time!