New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe

What is it?

New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is a port of the Wii U launch title, maintaining pixel-perfect 2D platforming within a sprawling kingdom. Mario (or Luigi) advances rightward across multiple worlds, each subdivided into levels. Enemy varieties, obstacle patterns, and environmental hazards force moment-to-moment adaptation. Traditional power-ups—Super Mushroom, Fire Flower—return alongside newer variants like Boomerang Flower.

Luigi, previously supporting character, becomes independently controllable. This variant features higher jumps and floatier air control, demanding different timing than Mario. This design choice respects both characters' legacy identities while enabling alternate playstyles within the same level structure.

How it plays

Leveldesign prioritizes straightforward platforming fundamentals: navigation, timing, hazard avoidance. Difficulty escalates gradually—early worlds accommodate newer players, later worlds demand precision. Optional secret exits unlock alternate routes and shortcuts, rewarding thorough exploration.

Multiplayer supports cooperative play where players assist (lifting each other to high platforms) or accidentally interfere. The chaos of simultaneous play—disagreements, unintended collisions—generates memorable social moments.

Why it sold

January 2019 release positioned the title as post-holiday entertainment. Wii U owners purchasing Switch finally experienced the game on new hardware; casual audiences discovered it fresh. The timeless 2D Mario formula—proven through decades—required no reinvention.

With 19.10 million units, it became the 2D Mario franchise's best seller on Switch, establishing the port as a system essential. The success signaled to players that Nintendo valued backward compatibility and was willing to refresh beloved titles across hardware generations.