Super Mario 3D World: A Masterclass in Platforming

Mario's remarkably full and nuanced move set lets you move faster and jump higher than feels prudent at times. The iconic plumber still controls beautifully, moving with a sense of free-wheeling momentum that feels both empowering and a little bit dangerous. It's a formula that has only really been tweaked over the decades, because Nintendo largely aced it first time.

Nintendo pretty much wrote the rulebook on third-person 3D control with 1996's Super Mario 64 for the N64. While Framerate hasn't gotten as much attention, 64 and Sunshine running at a now-solid 30fps with Galaxy hitting the pinnacle of 1080p and 60fps. The other two entries were jumped up to 1080p while docked (720p in handheld mode), with Sunshine having its aspect ratio expanded to full 16×9 widescreen. Of course, their resolution was enhanced with the N64's woeful 320×240 being bumped to 960×720.

All three games are presented here in mostly their original form, being modified to work on the Switch in just a few key ways. Super Mario 3D All-Stars combines Super Mario 64, Super Mario Sunshine, and Super Mario Galaxy into one clean package for the Switch.

The game introduces new enemies, including Goombas with tails, tall stacks of Goombas, and a Piranha Plant that spits ink to obscure a player's view. The Circle Pad gives players complete control to confidently move Mario through fun and challenging environments. With new abilities such as rolling somersault attacks and dash moves, the game offers unique gameplay strategies.

The 3D visuals make it easier for players to judge the depths and distances in their environments, allowing them to move through the levels with more confidence. The Tanooki suit's tail can be used to attack enemies or float gently down from great heights, adding a new layer of strategy to the game.

Overall, Super Mario 3D World is a masterclass in platforming, offering a thrilling experience that will keep players coming back for more.

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