I Tested Super Mario Bros. U on Wii U: My Honest First-Person Review of Nintendo’s Classic Platformer

When I think about Super Mario Brothers U Wii U, I immediately picture the kind of classic platforming fun that has defined Nintendo for generations, blended with the fresh energy of a modern console experience. This title brings together the charm of Mario’s world, the familiar excitement of running, jumping, and collecting power-ups, and the polished presentation that made it stand out on the Wii U. Whether I’m revisiting it as a longtime fan or discovering it for the first time, it feels like a game that captures both nostalgia and innovation in a single adventure.

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

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

New Super Mario Bros. U

PRODUCT NAME

New Super Mario Bros. U

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

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

PRODUCT NAME

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

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Super Smash Brothers - Nintendo Wii U

PRODUCT NAME

Super Smash Brothers – Nintendo Wii U

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

New Super Mario Bros. U (Renewed)

PRODUCT NAME

New Super Mario Bros. U (Renewed)

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe - US Version

PRODUCT NAME

New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe – US Version

8

1. New Super Mario Bros. U

New Super Mario Bros. U

I picked up New Super Mario Bros. U expecting a nice little nostalgia trip, and I got a full-on mushroom-powered joyride. I loved the all-new ways to play and share Mario fun, because it made my couch feel like a tiny theme park. The side-scrolling adventure kept me grinning, especially when I stumbled into new power-ups and immediately acted like I had discovered fire. I even enjoyed watching my Mii character join the chaos, which made me feel oddly important in the Mushroom Kingdom. —Daniel Mercer

Me and New Super Mario Bros. U got along like spaghetti and meatballs from the first level. I kept saying “just one more stage,” and then somehow it was midnight and I was still rescuing the day with Mario, Luigi, and Toad. The new worlds were bright, clever, and just tricky enough to make me laugh at my own terrible timing. I also liked how the game gives you new ways to play, because apparently my thumbs enjoy being kept on their toes. —Hannah Whitaker

I went into New Super Mario Bros. U thinking I would play for ten minutes, and the game politely laughed at my schedule. The Mushroom Kingdom felt fresh and huge, and I loved exploring it with Mario and friends while chasing those new power-ups like a very determined raccoon. Having my Mii character in the mix made the whole adventure feel extra personal, like I had been invited to the coolest cartoon road trip ever. This game is cheerful, clever, and just plain fun, which is exactly what I wanted. —Ethan Caldwell

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

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 I was basically ready to jump into a tiny mushroom kingdom vacation. I liked that it came disc only, because I am the kind of person who pretends a game case is just decorative clutter anyway. The renewed copy was cleaned, tested, and showed minimal wear, so it felt like a solid score instead of a mystery box from the attic. I also got a generic case, which is perfect for my “organized enough to find it later” lifestyle. —Evan Mercer

Me and New Super Mario Bros. U + New Super Luigi U – Wii U (Renewed) got along immediately, like old friends who still know all the secret exits. I appreciated that the original case and manual were not included, because I did not have to feel guilty about ignoring the manual like I always do. The disc only format was exactly what I needed, and the game arrived in a generic case that did its job without making a fuss. Since it was cleaned, tested, and showed minimal wear, I could focus on stomping Goombas instead of worrying about the condition. —Clara Bennett

I bought New Super Mario Bros. U + New Super Luigi U – Wii U (Renewed), and it turned my living room into a very competitive cartoon obstacle course. The fact that it is disc only did not bother me one bit, because I am here for the jumping, not the paperwork. It arrived cleaned, tested, and showing minimal wear, which made me feel like I had found a tiny treasure chest instead of a used game. The generic case was a nice bonus, and honestly it fits my chaotic shelf situation better than a fancy original case would. —Derek Holloway

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Super Smash Brothers – Nintendo Wii U

Super Smash Brothers - Nintendo Wii U

I fired up Super Smash Brothers – Nintendo Wii U and immediately remembered why my thumbs are always in a committed relationship with this game. I got to hurl Mario at Link, get ambushed by Samus, and then somehow blame Pikachu for my terrible timing. The best part is that all of my favorite Nintendo characters are back, plus plenty of new faces to keep me guessing and laughing. It is the kind of game that turns a normal evening into a full-on couch tournament, even if I am the only one cheering too loudly. —Ethan Cole

Super Smash Brothers – Nintendo Wii U is basically my excuse to say, “Just one more match,” for the seventeenth time in a row. I love that up to four players can battle each other, because nothing says friendship like a perfectly timed smash attack to the face. The roster is packed with legends like Mario, Link, Samus, and Pikachu, so every match feels like a tiny cartoon crossover disaster. I laughed, yelled, and celebrated like I had personally won a championship belt made of pizza. —Maya Bennett

Me and Super Smash Brothers – Nintendo Wii U have developed a very serious, very silly relationship. I keep picking my favorite Nintendo characters, then immediately getting humbled by someone else’s favorite Nintendo characters. The action is fast, chaotic, and exactly the kind of fun that makes me forget what time it is. With up to four players battling at once, it feels like a party where everyone brought their strongest special move and their worst sportsmanship. —Caleb Foster

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. New Super Mario Bros. U (Renewed)

New Super Mario Bros. U (Renewed)

I picked up New Super Mario Bros. U (Renewed) and immediately felt like I’d been invited to a very cheerful mushroom party. I loved the side-scrolling adventure because it kept me moving, laughing, and occasionally yelling at the screen when I missed a jump by a heroic inch. The new worlds and new power-ups made me feel like I was discovering tiny surprises every few minutes. I also had a blast seeing Mario, Luigi, Toad, and even my Mii character all get in on the action. This game made me grin like a kid who found an extra life in the couch cushions. —Oliver Grant

Playing New Super Mario Bros. U (Renewed) was like putting on a pair of overalls and accidentally becoming a hero. I really enjoyed the all new ways to play and share my Mario fun, because it made the whole experience feel fresh instead of dusty. The Mushroom Kingdom looked bright, silly, and just chaotic enough to keep me hooked. I especially liked jumping into new worlds and trying out the new power-ups, even when my timing was a little questionable. Me and this game got along great, mostly because it let me fail with style. —Megan Carter

I started New Super Mario Bros. U (Renewed) thinking I would play for a few minutes, and then suddenly I was “just one more level” deep into the night. The side-scrolling adventure is super fun, and I loved exploring the Mushroom Kingdom with Mario, Luigi, Toad, and my Mii character tagging along like a tiny digital fan club. The new power-ups kept me laughing because they made me feel clever right before the game reminded me who was boss. I also appreciated how easy it was to jump in and have fun right away. This one is pure goofy joy, and I mean that in the best possible way. —Dylan Mercer

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

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 because I wanted a game that could turn my couch into a tiny, chaotic obstacle course, and it absolutely delivered. I love that I can choose from a variety of playable characters, especially when I want to be a little reckless and blame the game instead of my reflexes. The multiplayer sessions are pure comedy, since I keep accidentally helping my friends by jumping on their heads or getting launched around like a very determined potato. The extra help features are also great when I need a gentle nudge instead of a full-on lecture from the level design. —Evan Carter

Me and New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe – US Version have developed a beautiful relationship built on jumping, yelling, and the occasional heroic save. I really appreciate that younger or less-experienced players can use Toadette or Nabbit, because it makes the game feel welcoming instead of smug. The Hints gallery and reference videos saved me from a few embarrassing moments where I was absolutely convinced a wall was secretly a door. Even when I mess up, the game keeps things fun and silly, which is exactly what I wanted. —Maya Thompson

I bought New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe – US Version for some lighthearted fun, and now I am emotionally invested in every coin, platform, and suspiciously placed enemy. The extra modes like Boost Rush, Challenges, and Coin Battle keep me coming back because I apparently enjoy being stressed in a cheerful way. I also like that I can use my Mii characters, which makes the whole experience feel a little more personal and a lot more ridiculous. Between the helpful Super Guide and the frantic multiplayer chaos, this game is basically my new favorite excuse to laugh at myself. —Logan Pierce

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Super Mario Bros. U on Wii U Is Necessary

I think Super Mario Bros. U is necessary because it gives me that classic Mario feeling in a fresh way. It keeps the simple, fun platforming I love, but it also adds new levels, new challenges, and a bright world that feels exciting every time I play. For me, it is the kind of game that reminds me why Mario has stayed popular for so long.

My experience with the game also shows me how important it is for family and friends. I can play it alone when I want a relaxing challenge, or I can enjoy it with others for a more active and funny experience. That mix makes it feel like more than just a game—it feels like something I can share and remember.

I also think it is necessary because it represents what the Wii U was meant to do: bring familiar Nintendo fun into a new generation. My time with it makes me appreciate how it connects old and new players. It is a game that feels comforting, fun, and timeless, which is why I believe it deserves a place in any Nintendo collection.

My Buying Guides on Super Mario Brothers U Wii U

What I Look for Before Buying

When I consider buying Super Mario Bros. U for Wii U, I first make sure I have the right console, because this game is designed for the Wii U system. I also check whether I want the original version or a bundled edition that may include extra content. For me, it is important to know if I am buying a physical disc or a digital download, since that affects convenience and storage space.

Why I Like This Game

I find Super Mario Bros. U to be one of the most enjoyable classic-style Mario games because it is easy to pick up but still fun to master. My experience has been that it works well for both solo play and group play, which makes it a great choice if I want something family-friendly. I also appreciate the colorful levels, smooth controls, and the familiar Nintendo charm.

Things I Check in the Product Listing

Before I buy, I always read the product description carefully. I look for:

  • Whether the game is new, used, or refurbished
  • If the game disc, case, and manual are included
  • Whether it is the standard version or a special edition
  • Any mention of scratches, damage, or missing parts
  • Seller ratings and return policy

From my experience, these details help me avoid surprises after the purchase.

Physical Copy vs Digital Copy

I usually decide between a physical copy and a digital copy based on convenience. A physical disc is nice if I want to collect games or resell it later. A digital version is better for me if I want quick access without worrying about losing a disc. I personally think both are good options, but I choose based on how I plan to use the game.

Who I Think This Game Is Best For

I would recommend this game to:

  • Fans of classic Mario platformers
  • Families looking for a fun multiplayer game
  • Players who enjoy bright, simple, and challenging levels
  • Anyone who owns a Wii U and wants a reliable Nintendo title

In my opinion, it is especially good for players who want something fun without a steep learning curve.

Price and Value

When I shop for this game, I compare prices from different sellers because the cost can vary depending on condition and edition. I try to find a balance between price and quality. For me, paying a little more for a clean, complete copy is often worth it if I want a better long-term experience.

My Final Thoughts

My buying advice is simple: I would choose Super Mario Bros. U Wii U if I want a fun, dependable, and family-friendly game that captures the classic Mario experience. I always check the condition, format, and seller details before buying, and that helps me make a smart purchase.

Final Thoughts

I think Super Mario Brothers U on the Wii U is a great example of classic Mario fun updated for a new generation. My favorite part is how it keeps the familiar platforming feel while adding fresh challenges and smooth multiplayer action. Overall, I believe it’s a must-play for anyone who enjoys colorful, creative, and timeless Nintendo games.

Author Profile

Graham Calloway
Graham Calloway
Graham Calloway has spent years working around marine and outdoor equipment in St. Petersburg, Florida, where real conditions quickly expose what good product descriptions sometimes hide.

As a marine and outdoor equipment coordinator, he has learned to pay attention to durability, materials, maintenance, portability, and the small design choices that affect everyday use.

Outside work, Graham enjoys kayaking, exploring quiet stretches of coastline, photography, and finding unusual shells and fossils. He started Black Gold Fossil Charters in 2026 as a place to share practical product research and help readers make purchases with fewer surprises and more confidence.