Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

Where to Play

Screenwise Verdict

New Super Mario Bros U Deluxe is the gaming equivalent of a reliable minivan—safe, functional, gets the family where they need to go, but nobody's writing home about the experience.

It's genuinely good at what it does: cooperative platforming with zero predatory elements, no online toxicity, and legitimate skill-building. Nintendo's quality standards mean it's polished and age-appropriate throughout.

But let's be real: by 2012, Nintendo had made this exact game THREE times already. Same art style, same 'wah-wah' music, same basic mechanics with minor tweaks. The Flying Squirrel is cute but doesn't fundamentally change anything. If your kids have played any other 'New' Super Mario Bros game, they've basically played this one.

The 'Deluxe' rerelease adds some characters but doesn't address the core issue: this formula was stale even when it launched. Compared to the creativity of Super Mario Odyssey (2017) or the innovation of Super Mario Wonder (2023), this feels like Nintendo going through the motions.

For families new to Mario or looking for safe co-op gaming, it's perfectly serviceable. For everyone else, it's fine but forgettable—the Mario game you play when you've already played all the better Mario games.

Age Fit

Best for ages 5-12, though the challenge modes can engage older kids who want to prove their platforming prowess. Younger kids (4-5) can participate in multiplayer with help, while teens will likely find it too basic unless they're nostalgic completionists.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

92

Classic Mario formula with cooperative multiplayer that encourages teamwork. Non-violent cartoon action (jumping on goombas, no blood or aggression). Bright, cheerful tone throughout with positive characters working together to save Princess Peach. Pacing is player-controlled in a platformer, so no forced chaos.

Imaginative

68

Introduces Flying Squirrel power-up and creative GamePad Boost Mode interaction, but fundamentally follows the well-worn Mario formula with limited deviation. Level design encourages exploration for secrets and star coins, but this is the fourth entry in the 'New' series, so innovation is incremental rather than groundbreaking. Challenge modes add variety but don't fundamentally expand creative play.

Safe

95

Users can interact locally (multiplayer), but no online chat, no in-game purchases, no loot boxes, and no predatory monetization. Classic Nintendo quality with age-appropriate content throughout. The only 'danger' is mild cartoon peril (falling in pits, touching enemies) that's been family-safe since 1985. No surprise content or toxic elements.

Enriching

72

Builds hand-eye coordination, spatial reasoning, timing, and problem-solving through platforming challenges. Challenge modes specifically designed to develop skills. Cooperative play teaches turn-taking and teamwork. However, it's primarily entertainment-focused rather than deeply educational. IGDB rating of 78.4 suggests solid but not exceptional quality. Provides meaningful skill development within its genre.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Perfect couch co-op for families—up to 4 players can jump around together without any toxic online nonsense
Zero predatory monetization, ads, or surprise content—just a complete game you pay for once
Builds genuine platforming skills: timing, spatial awareness, problem-solving under pressure
Challenge modes offer real difficulty progression for kids who want to level up their abilities
Flying Squirrel power-up is adorable and the GamePad Boost Mode adds a unique helper role for younger siblings

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What to Watch For

This is the FOURTH 'New Super Mario Bros' game with nearly identical aesthetics and gameplay—even kids might notice it feels repetitive
Multiplayer can get chaotic with younger kids accidentally bumping each other off platforms (though that's also half the fun)
Released in 2012 for Wii U, so it genuinely feels dated compared to modern Mario games like Odyssey or Wonder—the 'Deluxe' label doesn't change that
Some levels and challenge modes can be genuinely difficult, leading to frustration for kids who struggle with precise platforming

Conversation Starters

"Which power-up is your favorite and why? How does the Flying Squirrel change how you play?"
"When we're playing together, how can we help each other instead of getting in each other's way?"
"What's the hardest level you've beaten? What strategy finally worked?"
"If you could design a new Mario power-up, what would it do?"

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