New Super Mario Bros. vs Super Mario 3D World
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.


New Super Mario Bros. brings the beloved side‑scrolling Mario experience to a modern handheld, combining tight controls with vibrant 2D graphics. Players dash, jump, and collect coins across dozens of inventive worlds filled with secrets and challenges. The game supports both solo play and cooperative multiplayer, letting friends team up to tackle levels together while discovering hidden paths and power‑up combos. Its timeless design appeals to newcomers and longtime fans alike.
Super Mario 3D World is a 3D platformer action game for the Wii U that follows Mario, Luigi, Peach, and Toad as they rescue the Sprixie Princess from Bowser. Building on the classic 3D level-design conventions of its predecessor, the game challenges players to navigate linear levels within a time limit to reach the Goal Pole. Players can choose from multiple characters with unique playstyles and utilize new power-ups like the Cat suit to climb walls and defeat enemies. It introduces simultaneous four-player cooperative multiplayer to a 3D Mario title alongside intuitive Wii U GamePad touch and microphone features.
- Tight, responsive controls that feel classic yet fresh.
- Rich variety of power‑ups and level designs.
- Engaging multiplayer modes for up to four players.
- High replay value with secret exits and collectibles.
- First 3D Mario game with simultaneous four-player co-op
- Diverse character roster with unique playstyles
- Fun and versatile Cat power-up mechanics
- Engaging utilization of Wii U GamePad features
- Limited online features; focus is on local play.
- Graphics, while charming, may feel dated compared to modern 3D titles.
- No built‑in level editor for user‑generated content.
- Multiplayer is local only without online matchmaking built in
- Linear level design may limit open-world exploration
- Wii U exclusivity restricts accessibility on modern systems
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to New Super Mario Bros.
View all →
Team up with friends in this cooperative 3D platforming adventure on the Wii U.

Join Mario in a classic 2.5D side-scrolling platform adventure to rescue Princess Peach.
Alternatives to Super Mario 3D World
View all →
Join Mario in a classic 2.5D side-scrolling platform adventure to rescue Princess Peach.

Join Mario, Luigi, and Toads on a 2.5D side-scrolling platform adventure to rescue Princess Peach.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataBoth are high‑quality Mario platformers at the same price, but New Super Mario Bros. offers classic 2D gameplay with more levels, while Super Mario 3D World adds 3D movement and Wii U‑specific features.
Key differences
- •Game perspective: 2D side‑scroll vs. 3D third‑person.
- •Level count: Over 80 levels in New Super Mario Bros. vs. fewer, linear levels in Super Mario 3D World.
- •Hardware: New Super Mario Bros. runs on Nintendo DS (2006) and is widely available; Super Mario 3D World is Wii U‑only.
- •Multiplayer focus: Both support up to four local players, but 3D World adds unique Cat power‑up and GamePad interactions.
- •Critic scores: 95/100 for New Super Mario Bros. vs. 94/100 for Super Mario 3D World.
Gameplay & fun factor
New Super Mario Bros. provides tight, responsive 2D controls and secret exits, praised for classic platforming feel.
Platform availability
New Super Mario Bros. is on Nintendo DS, a more accessible handheld; 3D World is Wii U‑exclusive.
Price & value
Both cost $59.99 and are one‑time purchases.
Multiplayer / co‑op
3D World adds unique Cat power‑up mechanics and GamePad interactions, enhancing four‑player co‑op experience.
Content & replayability
Over 80 levels with hidden exits give New Super Mario Bros. higher replay value than 3D World's linear design.
Difficulty & accessibility
New Super Mario Bros. is rated ESRB E/PEGI 12, with precise controls suitable for beginners and veterans.
Graphics & performance
3D World uses Wii U 3D graphics and GamePad features, offering a more modern visual experience.
Choose New Super Mario Bros. if…
Buyers who prefer classic 2D platforming, want many levels, and need a game that runs on widely owned hardware.
Choose Super Mario 3D World if…
Buyers who want a 3D Mario experience with unique co‑op mechanics and own a Wii U.
Common questions
Do either of these games support online multiplayer?
Both are limited to local multiplayer; neither offers online matchmaking.
Which game offers more content for replay?
New Super Mario Bros. has over 80 levels and secret exits, providing greater replayability.
Can I play Super Mario 3D World on consoles other than Wii U?
Not specified; the facts list it as a Wii U exclusive.



