When Super Mario Bros. Wonder launched in 2023, it brought back the charm of 2D Mario. Fast forward to March 26, 2026, when the game returns with a Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. I recently tried out the multiplayer features, and I have mixed feelings.
First, let me clarify. Multiplayer isn’t my favorite. I enjoy diving into games solo, losing myself in the world without interruptions. If you love playing with friends, the new “Meetup at Bellabel Park” might excite you.
I jumped into one co-op mode and three PvP modes. The co-op mode lets two players control characters, while two others build Donut Blocks for navigation. It sounds fun, but it quickly turns chaotic. With everyone placing blocks, it’s easy to block teammates instead. The experience felt cluttered and confusing, rather than collaborative.
For the PvP modes, two of them involved racing. In one, you speed across the sky in flying vehicles. In the other, you bounce around as balls of physics fate. While there’s a thrill in seeing who finishes first, they didn’t captivate me. I can’t picture many players returning to these modes often.
The final PvP mode was a hide-and-seek game. Players fly in Lakitu Clouds, blending in with others to avoid being found. It’s entertaining in small doses, but I doubt it’ll hold my attention at home, away from the excitement of a demo event.
On a broader note, these modes felt like minigames from Mario Party. If you view them through that lens, they can be fun. However, as standalones in Bellabel Park, they seemed shallow.
Right now, I’m hesitant to invest in the £16.99 / $19.99 upgrade for Mario Wonder. Although the visuals in the Switch 2 Edition are bright and sharp, the multiplayer features haven’t sold me on it.
There are other new elements like the Toad Brigade challenges, the return of The Koopalings, and an Assist mode that might enhance gameplay for some. And, Rosalina is now playable. Still, whether these additions justify an upgrade is uncertain.
Interestingly, I also got a brief look at the new Talking Flower toy. The setting wasn’t ideal for a proper test, but it seemed charming enough if you’re into quirky desk accessories.
In the end, my excitement for Mario Wonder’s multiplayer is low, but your thoughts might differ. Will you grab the upgrade for the Nintendo Switch 2? Let’s hear what you think!
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Previews, Features, Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo, Upcoming Releases, First Impressions
