New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe on Nintendo Switch: A Comprehensive Review of Mario’s 2D Return

In January 2019, Nintendo continued its successful strategy of revitalizing classic Wii U titles for new audiences with the launch of New Super Mario Bros.

U Deluxe on Nintendo Switch.

This expanded package unites the acclaimed Wii U platformer New Super Mario Bros.

U and its substantial downloadable expansion, New Super Luigi U, into a single, content-rich release complemented by small but meaningful enhancements designed for both dedicated platformer fans and newcomers to the world of Mario.

For those unfamiliar with its roots, New Super Mario Bros.

U originally debuted as a Wii U launch title in 2012, developed by Nintendo’s renowned EAD division.

Despite its critical acclaim, the original release was limited by the Wii U’s sales footprint.

The Switch edition now introduces the franchise’s traditional side-scrolling platform action to millions more players worldwide. New Super Mario Bros.

U Deluxe embraces the classic Mario format: players journey through a variety of themed worlds—from deserts to snowy peaks, forests to castles—each filled with inventive obstacles, hidden secrets, and the beloved lineup of iconic power-ups including mushrooms and fire flowers.

The expanded suite of power-ups also features the Squirrel Suit, a newer addition that offers increased mobility and creative platforming options.

As the tradition goes, levels crescendo toward boss encounters, typically resolved through the franchise’s familiar three-strike mechanic. Gameplay in both Mario and Luigi campaigns is defined by tight, responsive controls, a hallmark of Nintendo’s 2D platformers.

However, a notable modification in the Switch release is the reassignment of the mid-air spin move to the standard jump button, which can occasionally lead to accidental activations.

While not detrimental to the core experience, an option for custom button remapping would greatly benefit players desiring more control customization. The real showpiece in this package is New Super Luigi U, the expansion that significantly alters the gameplay experience.

Luigi's physics—with his signature higher jump and lower traction—are on full display, creating a steeper challenge compared to Mario’s adventure.

Levels are shorter, more difficult, and each must be completed within a brisk 100-second time limit, making for a fast-paced and demanding platforming experience.

This fresh approach injects variety into the established 'New' series formula. To further broaden accessibility, New Super Mario Bros.

U Deluxe introduces Toadette and Nabbit as playable characters across both games.

Toadette—capable of transforming into Peachette for powerful platforming abilities—swims better, floats longer, and can collect special 3-Up Moons.

Nabbit, labeled as the 'Very Easy' option, is immune to enemy damage, making the adventures more approachable for less experienced players.

These additions serve as effective entry points for newcomers and families, though their presence can create imbalances in multiplayer sessions when all players prefer a standard challenge. Beyond the main campaigns, Deluxe offers a robust suite of additional content.

Challenge Mode presents diverse objectives ranging from timed coin collections to consecutive life gains via enemy jumps, encouraging mastery of core mechanics.

The Boost Rush and Coin Battle modes amplify the multiplayer mayhem, with players racing against accelerating autoscroll or competing for coins in familiar environments.

However, certain restrictions—such as the inability to access New Super Luigi U levels in Coin Battle—remain a point of frustration for completionists and party-focused groups. From a presentation standpoint, the game’s visuals remain vibrant and clear in both docked and handheld play, though the art direction is sometimes criticized as lacking the visual flair seen in 2D contemporaries like Rayman Legends.

The soundtrack, while energetic and pleasant, falls short of the highs set by earlier Mario titles.

Occasional standout stages featuring Van Gogh-inspired art underscore the potential for more distinct visual creativity. Though New Super Mario Bros.

U Deluxe is a faithful port rather than a ground-up remake, its wealth of polished content, refined platforming, and increased accessibility solidify its position as a must-play for newcomers who missed the Wii U originals.

While longtime fans may long for additional fresh content—such as online leaderboards for speedrunning—the Deluxe package upholds Mario’s reputation for reliably fun, family-friendly gameplay.

For anyone looking to experience or revisit Mario and Luigi’s 2D journeys on the Nintendo Switch, this collection is an excellent entry point now available via retail and the Nintendo Switch eShop.

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