As is tradition, the June 21 Nintendo Direct event concluded with a pretty major, exciting announcement. This time, after a year dominated primarily by The Legend of Zelda, it was finally Mario’s time to shine! In addition to a remake of the popular Super Mario RPG, the plumber was announced to be starring in a brand-new game titled Super Mario Bros. Wonder.
In Super Mario Bros. Wonder, it’s all about expecting the unexpected! As Mario journeys through a series of 2D side-scrolling levels, he’ll encounter Wonder Flowers, which can cause a variety of bizarre effects to happen. Effects shown off in the Direct included pipes coming to life, the level going dark, and even Mario getting to ride atop a flock of charging sheep-like creatures! In addition, the game will feature at least one new power-up, as Mario was shown consuming a fruit that allows him to turn into an elephant and attack enemies with his trunk.
Surprise and wonder await at every corner in the next evolution of 2D side-scrolling Mario fun! #SuperMarioBrosWonder releases for #NintendoSwitch on Oct. 20. pic.twitter.com/rxxEaxquvp
— Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) June 21, 2023
Mario will not be the only character able to explore this realm of wonder. Other playable characters will include Toad, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Princess Daisy. A brief shot also indicated that different-colored versions of Yoshi may be playable characters as well. Unfortunately, Bowser was not shown off as a playable character, but a Bowser-themed vehicle did appear, indicating that the iconic Koopa King will have some presence in this game. Up to four players will be able to experience Super Mario Bros. Wonder together in multiplayer mode, facing off against new and returning enemies in dozens of levels.
Super Mario Bros. Wonder will release for the Nintendo Switch on October 20, 2023. Although only a brief first look was shown off during the June 21 Nintendo Direct, Nintendo spokespeople confirmed that more information will be revealed prior to the game’s launch, including more of the possible effects of Wonder Flowers.
Are you excited for this brand-new 2D Mario adventure? Which character are you most looking forward to playing as? Comment below and let us know!
