Super Mario Bros. 2 vs New Super Mario Bros. U
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Super Mario Bros. 2 takes players on a colorful journey through dreamlike worlds, introducing new characters and unique abilities that refresh the beloved series. The game blends classic platforming with inventive level design, offering both challenge and charm for players of all ages. Originally released in 1988, this title remains a staple of Nintendo's catalog, celebrated for its cooperative feel and imaginative environments. Its timeless gameplay continues to delight both nostalgic fans and new players alike.
New Super Mario Bros. U is an engaging side-scrolling 2.5D platform game where players guide Mario, Luigi, and friends through imaginative worlds. Bowser's gang has seized control of Princess Peach's Castle, setting the stage for a classic rescue mission across diverse levels filled with secrets, enemies, and challenges. The game introduces the exciting Super Acorn power-up, granting players the Flying Squirrel ability to glide through stages. Featuring both single-player campaigns and multiplayer cooperative modes, alongside innovative Wii U GamePad features like Boost Mode and various challenge modes, it delivers timeless platforming fun for all ages.
- Iconic characters with unique abilities
- Creative level design with multiple routes
- Charming art and music
- Easy to pick up, hard to master
- Engaging multiplayer co-op support
- Challenging extra game modes
- Fun new power-ups like the Super Acorn
- Charming 2.5D art style
- Limited multiplayer options (single‑player only)
- Some levels can feel repetitive
- Graphics are dated by modern standards
- Similar visual style to previous titles
- Limited innovation over prior franchise entries
- Multiplayer can sometimes lead to chaotic moments
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to Super Mario Bros. 2
View all →Join Mario in a classic 2.5D side-scrolling platform adventure to rescue Princess Peach.
Dive into the first 3‑D Mario adventure and explore a kingdom of endless platforms and secrets.
Alternatives to New Super Mario Bros. U
View all →
Classic Mario platforming reborn with fresh power-ups and multiplayer fun.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataSuper Mario Bros. 2 offers classic single‑player platforming with iconic characters, while New Super Mario Bros. U adds modern 2.5D co‑op and extra challenge modes.
Key differences
- •Multiplayer: A is single‑player only; B supports up to four‑player co‑op.
- •Visual style: A uses hand‑drawn 2D art from 1988; B uses newer 2.5D graphics from 2012.
- •Extra content: B includes high‑difficulty challenge modes and the Super Acorn power‑up; A focuses on multiple pathways and secret exits.
- •Price info: B lists a $59.99 MSRP; A’s price is not specified.
- •Release era: A is a 1988 classic; B is a 2012 modern entry with Wii U GamePad integration.
Gameplay & fun factor
B adds co‑op, new power‑ups and challenge modes, expanding gameplay beyond A's single‑player focus.
Platform availability
A was originally released for NES/Arcade in 1988; B requires Wii U hardware, limiting modern accessibility.
Price & value
A’s price is not listed (likely lower as a retro title); B costs $59.99 MSRP.
Multiplayer / co‑op
B supports single‑player, multiplayer and cooperative modes; A is single‑player only.
Content & replayability
B offers extra high‑difficulty modes and a rescue mission; A relies on multiple routes and secret exits.
Difficulty & accessibility
A is described as easy to pick up, hard to master; B adds challenging modes that may be harder for beginners.
Graphics & performance
B uses newer 2.5D graphics (2012) versus A’s dated 1988 hand‑drawn 2D visuals.
Choose Super Mario Bros. 2 if…
Fans of classic, single‑player platformers who prefer retro aesthetics and simpler price.
Choose New Super Mario Bros. U if…
Players wanting modern co‑op, extra challenges, and updated graphics on Wii U.
Common questions
Which game supports multiplayer?
New Super Mario Bros. U (B) supports single‑player, multiplayer and cooperative modes; Super Mario Bros. 2 (A) is single‑player only.
What is the price of each game?
B lists an MSRP of $59.99; A’s price is not specified in the provided data.
Do either games offer extra challenge content beyond the main campaign?
Yes, B includes dedicated high‑difficulty challenge modes; A’s extra content is limited to multiple pathways and secret exits.