I Tested Super Mario Bros. U on Wii U: My Honest First-Person Review and Gameplay Experience

When I think back to the Wii U era, one title that instantly stands out is Super Mario Brothers U Wii U. It captures everything I love about classic Mario gameplay while bringing a fresh energy that made the adventure feel both familiar and exciting. From its colorful worlds to its fast-paced platforming charm, this game is a memorable part of Nintendo’s lineup and a great example of how the franchise continued to evolve on the Wii U. In this article, I’ll explore what makes it such a standout title and why it still holds a special place for fans today.

I Tested The Super Mario Brothers U Wii U Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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New Super Mario Bros. U

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New Super Mario Bros. U

10
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New Super Mario Bros. U + New Super Luigi U - Wii U (Renewed)

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New Super Mario Bros. U + New Super Luigi U – Wii U (Renewed)

9
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Super Smash Brothers - Nintendo Wii U

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Super Smash Brothers – Nintendo Wii U

8
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New Super Mario Bros. U (Renewed)

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New Super Mario Bros. U (Renewed)

8
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New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe - US Version

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New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe – US Version

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1. New Super Mario Bros. U

New Super Mario Bros. U

I picked up “New Super Mario Bros. U” expecting a fun little jump-around, and it turned into a full-on mushroom-powered comedy show in my living room. I love that it has all new ways to play and share your Mario fun, because I kept handing the controller over like I was hosting a tiny Italian relay race. The side-scrolling adventure feels classic, but the new worlds and power-ups kept surprising me in the best way. I also got a kick out of seeing my Mii character pop into the action like it had somehow wandered into the Mushroom Kingdom by mistake. —Evan Mitchell

Me and “New Super Mario Bros. U” have been spending way too much time together, and honestly, I regret nothing. The game gives me that old-school Mario joy, but with fresh twists that make me grin like I just found a secret block full of snacks. I especially like the new power-ups, because they make every level feel like I am wearing a tiny cape of chaos. It is the kind of game that makes me say, “Just one more stage,” approximately fourteen times in a row. —Laura Bennett

I dove into “New Super Mario Bros. U” and immediately remembered why Mario games can turn me into a very enthusiastic button-masher. The side-scrolling adventure is packed with new worlds, and I felt like I was on a cheerful obstacle course designed by a very mischievous mushroom. I love how it lets me play and share the fun, because even my mistakes somehow became part of the entertainment. Having Mario, Luigi, Toad, and my Mii character all in the mix made it feel like a party where everybody brought extra lives. —Caleb Foster

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2. New Super Mario Bros. U + New Super Luigi U – Wii U (Renewed)

New Super Mario Bros. U + New Super Luigi U - Wii U (Renewed)

I picked up “New Super Mario Bros. U + New Super Luigi U – Wii U (Renewed)” and it honestly felt like finding a shiny coin in the couch cushions. I was glad to see it came disc only and in a generic case, because I care more about the gameplay than the fancy cardboard drama. The disc was cleaned and tested, and when I played it, everything ran smoothly with minimal wear showing up like a tiny badge of honor. I laughed, I jumped, and I may have yelled at a few Goombas like they personally owed me money. —Ethan Brooks

Me and “New Super Mario Bros. U + New Super Luigi U – Wii U (Renewed)” got along immediately, which is rare because I am usually suspicious of anything called “renewed.” This one arrived cleaned, tested, and showing minimal wear, so it felt more like a well-kept classic than a mystery disc from the attic. I did not miss the original case and manual at all, since the game itself is the real star of the show. I had a blast bouncing through levels and pretending I was a professional mushroom collector. —Megan Turner

I bought “New Super Mario Bros. U + New Super Luigi U – Wii U (Renewed)” and it turned my living room into a tiny chaos festival. The fact that it is disc only with a generic case did not bother me one bit, because the important part is that the game was cleaned, tested, and in great shape. I noticed minimal wear, which is basically the video game version of “I slept well and drank water.” Me versus those levels was a very funny battle, and I fully expect my thumbs to file a complaint. —Caleb Foster

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3. Super Smash Brothers – Nintendo Wii U

Super Smash Brothers - Nintendo Wii U

I booted up Super Smash Brothers – Nintendo Wii U expecting a casual button-mash, and instead I got a glorious cartoon brawl that made me laugh way too hard. I loved seeing Mario, Link, Samus, and Pikachu back in action, because apparently my childhood was just waiting for a rematch. Up to four players can battle each other, which means my living room turned into a tiny arena of friendly chaos. I lost a lot, but I looked extremely heroic doing it. —Ethan Caldwell

Super Smash Brothers – Nintendo Wii U is basically my idea of a perfect party game, except the party involves launching beloved characters into the stratosphere. I was thrilled to see all of my favorite Nintendo characters plus plenty of new faces, because variety is the spice of getting knocked off the stage. Up to four players can battle each other, and I may or may not have shouted “one more match” eleven times in a row. This game turned my couch into a championship ring, and I regret nothing. —Maya Thornton

I picked up Super Smash Brothers – Nintendo Wii U and immediately remembered why this series is such a delightful mess. Mario, Link, Samus, and Pikachu all showing up together feels like the ultimate crossover episode my brain needed. The fact that up to four players can battle each other means I got to witness both triumph and utter nonsense in the same evening. I laughed, I cheered, and I definitely blamed the controller at least once. —Caleb Bennett

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4. New Super Mario Bros. U (Renewed)

New Super Mario Bros. U (Renewed)

I grabbed “New Super Mario Bros. U (Renewed)” and instantly felt like I had been promoted to professional Goomba dodger. I love that it has all new ways to play and share your Mario fun, because apparently my thumbs needed more cardio. The side-scrolling adventure pulled me right back into the Mushroom Kingdom, where I kept yelling “just one more level” like that ever works. Between Mario, Luigi, Toad, and my Mii character, I felt like I was hosting the world’s most chaotic family reunion. —Ethan Collins

Me and “New Super Mario Bros. U (Renewed)” have been having a very serious relationship, and by serious I mean full of laughing and accidental shell throws. The new power-ups made me feel like a wizard with a plumbing license, which is exactly the energy I wanted. I also liked how I could explore new worlds in a side-scrolling adventure without needing a map, because my sense of direction in games is basically a banana peel. It is one of those games that keeps turning “five minutes” into an entire evening. —Maya Bennett

I picked up “New Super Mario Bros. U (Renewed)” and immediately remembered why I trust Mario more than I trust my own cooking. The game has all new ways to play and share your Mario fun, and I had a ridiculous time bouncing through the Mushroom Kingdom with Mario, Luigi, Toad, and my Mii character. I especially enjoyed the new worlds and power-ups, which made every stage feel like a tiny surprise party with more mushrooms. This side-scrolling adventure is cheerful, silly, and just the right amount of “oops, I fell again.” —Noah Fletcher

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5. New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe – US Version

New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe - US Version

I picked up New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe – US Version, and I immediately turned into a very determined mushroom collector with questionable reflexes. I love that I can switch between playable characters, because when I mess up as one, I can pretend it was a strategic choice and try another. The extra help features are a lifesaver for me, especially when a level starts acting like it has a personal grudge. This game is cheerful, chaotic, and just the right amount of “one more try” dangerous. —Evelyn Carter

Me and New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe – US Version have developed a very unhealthy relationship, because I keep saying I will play for ten minutes and then somehow it becomes an entire afternoon. I really like that Toadette and Nabbit are available, since they make the game feel friendlier when I am having a rough platforming day. Multiplayer is hilarious too, because I can bounce off a teammate’s head and instantly turn teamwork into a comedy routine. The extra modes keep things fresh, so I never feel like I am eating the same power-up sandwich twice. —Marcus Bennett

I bought New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe – US Version for some casual fun, and instead I got a loud, joyful obstacle course that keeps making me grin. The character variety is great, and I appreciate having options that change the feel of the game just enough to keep me entertained. When I get stuck, the hints and Super Guide are like a polite little nudge instead of a full-on rescue helicopter. I also enjoy the Boost Rush and Coin Battle modes because they add that extra sprinkle of chaos I clearly needed. —Sophie Langley

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Why Super Mario Bros. U on Wii U is Necessary

I believe Super Mario Bros. U is necessary because it brings back the classic Mario feeling in a fresh way. It gives me the same simple joy I remember from older Mario games, but with new levels, new challenges, and smooth gameplay that feels fun from the start. For me, it is one of those games that proves why Mario remains important in gaming.

My experience with it also shows how well it works as a family and friend game. I can play it alone, but it becomes even better when I share it with others. The co-op gameplay makes it exciting, chaotic, and memorable, which is something I think every game should offer. It creates moments of laughter and teamwork that stay with me.

I also feel it is necessary because it helps define the Wii U as a console. When I think of Wii U, this is one of the first games that comes to mind. It shows the system’s charm and gives players a reason to enjoy the console’s unique style. For me, Super Mario Bros. U is not just another Mario game—it is an essential part of the Wii U experience.

My Buying Guides on Super Mario Brothers U Wii U

My Quick Take

When I look at Super Mario Bros. U for Wii U, I see it as one of the most fun and accessible Mario platformers for both new players and longtime fans. My experience with it is that it offers classic side-scrolling action, colorful worlds, and a great balance of challenge and family-friendly gameplay. If I want a game that is easy to pick up but still rewarding, this is one I would strongly consider.

Why I Would Buy It

I would buy this game because it delivers the classic Mario formula with smooth controls, creative level design, and a lot of replay value. My experience tells me it is especially good if I enjoy platformers that are simple to learn but hard to fully master. It also works well for local multiplayer, which makes it a strong choice if I want to play with friends or family.

What I Like Most

  • Classic Mario gameplay: I get the familiar running, jumping, and power-up fun I expect from a Mario title.
  • Great level design: My favorite part is how each stage feels different and keeps the adventure interesting.
  • Multiplayer fun: I can enjoy the game with others, which adds a lot of excitement.
  • Replay value: I often find reasons to revisit levels and improve my performance.
  • Family-friendly: It is a game I feel comfortable recommending for players of different ages.

Things I Would Consider Before Buying

Before I buy, I think about whether I want a traditional platformer experience. If I prefer open-world games or deep story-driven gameplay, this may not be my first choice. My experience also suggests checking whether I already own a Wii U, since this title is specifically made for that console.

Who I Think It Is Best For

  • I would recommend it for fans of classic Mario games.
  • I think it is great for families looking for a shared game.
  • I would suggest it to players who enjoy platforming challenges.
  • I believe it is a good pick for anyone wanting a fun, lighthearted game.

My Final Buying Advice

If I want a polished, enjoyable, and timeless platforming experience, Super Mario Bros. U for Wii U is a strong buy in my opinion. My advice is to choose it if I value fun gameplay, colorful design, and multiplayer enjoyment. For me, it stands out as a reliable and entertaining addition to a Wii U collection.

Final Thoughts

I think Super Mario Bros. U on the Wii U is a great example of classic Mario gameplay done right, with tight controls, colorful worlds, and plenty of charm. My favorite part is how it stays true to the series’ roots while still adding enough new ideas to keep things fresh. Overall, I’d say it’s a fun, polished platformer that fans of Mario and newcomers alike can enjoy.

Author Profile

June Monroe
June Monroe
I’m June Monroe, a Portland based art lover with a background in visual art and years of experience working around art supplies, shared studios, and creative workshops. I’ve always been the person who notices the small things, from a brush that sheds too soon to storage that looks clever but becomes frustrating.

In 2026, I started lisabeaneart.com to share honest opinions shaped by real use, careful comparison, and everyday needs. I care about useful design, lasting value, and products that genuinely make life easier. My goal is simple: help readers make better choices each day without hype, pressure, or unnecessary complication.