Super Mario 3D World vs New Super Mario Bros. Wii
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
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.
New Super Mario Bros. Wii is an action-packed 2.5D side-scrolling platformer developed by Nintendo. When Bowser Jr. and his minions crash Princess Peach's birthday celebration and kidnap her inside a giant Airship, Mario, Luigi, and their Toad companions embark on a daring rescue mission across numerous creative worlds. Building upon classic platforming roots, the game introduces exciting power-ups like the Propeller Mushroom and Penguin Suit alongside simultaneous multiplayer support for up to four players. Players can experience cooperative teamwork or competitive play as they navigate challenging new levels, defeat iconic enemies, and journey to save the princess.
- 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
- Engaging four-player multiplayer mode
- Fun new power-ups like the Penguin Suit
- Challenging and creative level design
- Accessible yet rewarding platforming gameplay
- 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
- Multiplayer can sometimes lead to chaotic unintentional sabotage
- Lacks online multiplayer support out of the box
- Fixed camera perspective limits exploration
More alternatives & similar tools
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.
Alternatives to New Super Mario Bros. Wii
View all →Join Mario in a classic 2.5D side-scrolling platform adventure to rescue Princess Peach.
Team up with friends in this cooperative 3D platforming adventure on the Wii U.
Classic Mario platforming reborn with fresh power-ups and multiplayer fun.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataBoth are family-friendly Mario platformers with four-player co‑op, but New Super Mario Bros. Wii is cheaper and 2.5D, while Super Mario 3D World offers richer 3D gameplay and higher critical acclaim.
Key differences
- •Gameplay style: 2.5D side‑scroll (Wii) vs. full 3D worlds (Wii U).
- •Critical reception: 81/100 vs. 94/100.
- •Price: $49.99 vs. $59.99.
- •Platform: Wii only vs. Wii U only (no modern ports).
- •Unique mechanics: Propeller Mushroom & Penguin Suit vs. Cat power‑up and GamePad features.
Gameplay & fun factor
3D World adds Cat power‑up, wall‑climbing and GamePad interactions, expanding play variety beyond 2.5D platforming.
Platform availability
Wii has a larger installed base and is older; Wii U is less common and not backward compatible.
Price & value
$49.99 vs. $59.99, giving Wii version a $10 advantage.
Multiplayer / co‑op
Both support local four‑player co‑op; neither offers built‑in online multiplayer.
Content & replayability
Higher critic score (94) and additional character roster suggest more depth and replay value.
Difficulty & accessibility
Simpler 2.5D design and lower camera complexity make Wii version more approachable for young players.
Graphics & performance
3D World runs on newer Wii U hardware, delivering higher‑resolution 3D graphics than Wii’s 2.5D.
Choose Super Mario 3D World if…
Players who want richer 3D mechanics, higher critical praise, and own a Wii U.
Choose New Super Mario Bros. Wii if…
Families with younger kids or owners of a Wii seeking affordable four‑player platform fun.
Common questions
Is either game available on modern consoles?
No; Wii version runs only on Wii, Wii U version runs only on Wii U.
Can I play online with friends?
Both support only local multiplayer; neither includes built‑in online matchmaking.
Which offers more varied character abilities?
Super Mario 3D World adds the Cat power‑up and four distinct characters, while Wii version offers only Mario, Luigi, Yellow and Blue Toad.