New Super Mario Bros. 2

78%
Game Brain Score Based on 107 reviews
  • gameplay
  • graphics
  • music
New Super Mario Bros. 2 Game Cover
Tight controls, thoughtful level design, and a wealth of variety over the game's nine worlds make this the latest must-have title for the 3DS.
View game

New Super Mario Bros. 2 is a 2.5D platformer game for Nintendo 3DS, continuing the side-scrolling adventure from its predecessors. The game features single-player and multiplayer modes, allowing up to two players to cooperatively or competitively play through the levels. With a strong emphasis on coin collection, New Super Mario Bros. 2 introduces the Gold Flower power-up, transforming Mario into Gold Mario for additional advantages.

  • Nintendo 3ds
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

78%
Audience ScoreBased on 107 reviews
gameplay8 positive mentions
music3 negative mentions
  • The game features tight controls and thoughtful level design, providing hours of fun for both new and veteran players.
  • The introduction of the coin-collecting mechanic adds a unique twist to the gameplay, encouraging players to strive for a million coins.
  • The graphics are vibrant and visually appealing, making the game enjoyable to look at while playing.
  • The game feels repetitive and lacks significant innovation compared to previous entries in the series, making it feel more like an expansion than a standalone title.
  • The quest for a million coins can feel unfulfilling, as the rewards for achieving this goal are minimal.
  • The overall difficulty is lower than expected, which may disappoint seasoned players looking for a greater challenge.
  • gameplay13 mentions

    The gameplay of New Super Mario Bros. 2 retains the classic mechanics familiar to fans of the series, featuring power-ups like super mushrooms and the introduction of a coin-collection mechanic that adds a fresh layer of engagement. While it offers imaginative level designs and fluid controls, the game largely sticks to its roots without introducing significant innovations, making it a nostalgic experience for Mario enthusiasts. Overall, it combines classic platforming with modern elements, making it well-suited for portable gaming.

    • “This game looks and sounds great, provides an imaginative playground in which to experiment with familiar but brilliant gameplay mechanics, and gives any Mario and/or old-school platformer fan ample cause to smile.”
    • “The coin rush mode and the inclusion of the new gold fire flower and returning fan favorite super leaf are simply icing on a cake that I (and surely many Mario fans besides) were ready to eat before we even knew there was a cake.”
    • “The game brings back all the same mechanics from the previous versions, including super mushrooms and mini mushrooms, but made a few changes to the game.”
    • “Titles, save for the game-specific arsenal of power-ups, entirely different map and level designs, and inclusion of the coin-collection mechanic, are a better excuse to collect coins than the 1-ups you will reap.”
    • “The coin rush mode and the inclusion of the new gold fire flower and returning fan-favorite super leaf are simply icing on a cake that I (and surely many Mario fans besides) were ready to eat before we even knew there was a cake.”
  • graphics10 mentions

    The graphics of the game are highly praised, with many reviewers noting their standout quality and appeal, especially in the transition from 3D to 2D. The visuals are described as beautiful and sharp, enhancing the overall experience while maintaining the charm of classic titles. Overall, the graphics contribute significantly to the game's enjoyment and are considered worth the investment compared to other tablet games.

    • “The graphics are definitely worth their effort and stand out well.”
    • “Anyway, from going from 3D to 2D, this game does not disappoint in terms of graphics.”
    • “This game has equally beautiful graphics, equally challenging levels.”
    • “The game uses the same music with more wahs and even though the game's graphics are a bit sharper, it's still pretty much the same.”
  • music8 mentions

    The music in the game has received mixed reviews, with some players appreciating the nostalgic electronic tunes reminiscent of previous Mario titles, while others criticize it for lacking originality and becoming repetitive. The soundtrack is described as a rehash of familiar themes, which may appeal to younger audiences but can become annoying over time. Overall, the music is seen as a missed opportunity to innovate, leaving it feeling uninspired and overly familiar.

    • “If you enjoy the electronic music of Mario and his little tenor voice saying, 'It's Mario time!', then you will not regret buying this game, as kids ages 5 to 12 will play it all day long, and all night long.”
    • “This game is remarkably similar to Super Mario Bros 3 and Super Mario World with power-ups such as the raccoon leaf, and backup boss music that sounds like an updated version of SMB 3.”
    • “The game uses the same music with more wahs, and even though the game's graphics are a bit sharper, it's still pretty much the same.”
    • “Really, it can be likened to a music student who has learned how to play the notes on the sheet, but has yet to learn how to play the music underneath.”
    • “Music can get kind of annoying.”
  • story8 mentions

    The story in the game follows the familiar "save-the-princess" trope typical of Mario titles, lacking depth and originality, with many reviewers noting it feels repetitive and predictable. While the narrative may not be engaging, the gameplay remains enjoyable, with a strong focus on coin-collecting and additional challenging DLC content for those seeking more difficulty. Overall, the story serves as a backdrop to the gameplay rather than a compelling element.

    • “The story is an epic one.”
    • “The story is the same as always, but the gameplay is awesome.”
    • “Same old story but worth playing.”
    • “The story wasn't grabbing, as usual with Mario, as it's the typical save-the-princess routine over again, but that's what Mario is about, so I suppose it's not really too bad.”
    • “The story is almost exactly the same as the first game with a few changes.”
    • “[The formula is getting too familiar; the quest for a million coins is ultimately unfulfilling. Even with 9 worlds and dozens of levels, it isn't deep enough.]”
  • replayability7 mentions

    Overall, the game's replayability is mixed; while some players find it highly replayable due to hidden secrets and collectibles, others feel that the lack of challenge and limited worlds diminish its long-term appeal. Many enjoy revisiting the game for fun, but the relatively short playtime and minimal new content may deter some from replaying extensively.

    • “It's a fun game that isn't too demanding, and its replayability is incredible.”
    • “I will admit that the game has very hidden secrets and coin stars which make for a higher level of replayability.”
    • “Fun game with much replayability.”
    • “The game isn't very challenging, and there isn't much replay value once you collect everything.”
    • “I will admit that the game has very hidden secrets and coin stars, which make for a higher level of replayability.”
    • “I don't think I will replay just to collect the million, but for others, it adds some replay value.”
  • humor1 mentions

    The humor in the game is often perceived as hit-or-miss, with some players finding it clever and engaging, while others feel it falls flat or is overly self-deprecating. Overall, the comedic elements can enhance the experience for some, but may not resonate with everyone.

    • “I know, I am not funny....”
    • “The jokes fell flat and felt forced.”
    • “I expected more clever humor, but it was mostly cringeworthy.”
  • emotional1 mentions

    The emotional aspect of the game is characterized by a sense of empowerment and invincibility, as players can swiftly navigate challenges and defeat enemies with ease, creating a thrilling and liberating experience.

Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

Critic Reviews

77% average critic score

Videos

Similar Games