Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury: A Complete Guide

Hey guys! Get ready to dive headfirst into the vibrant and exciting world of Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury! This isn't just a simple re-release; it's a fantastic package that combines the charm of the original Super Mario 3D World with an all-new, open-world adventure in Bowser's Fury. Whether you're a seasoned Mario veteran or a newcomer eager to explore, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know to conquer every level, defeat every boss, and collect every last Shine Sprite and Green Star. We're talking about a deep dive into the mechanics, the secrets, and the sheer joy of one of the best Mario games out there. So, grab your Cat Suit, prepare for some epic challenges, and let's jump right in!

Super Mario 3D World: A Classic Reimagined

First up, let's revisit Super Mario 3D World, a game that originally graced the Wii U. Don't let the console's history fool you; this game is an absolute gem. It takes the classic Mario formula and injects it with a playful, inventive spirit that's hard to resist. The core gameplay revolves around navigating colorful, 3D environments with a fixed camera perspective, allowing for intricate level design and a focus on platforming precision. One of the standout features is the introduction of the Super Bell, which transforms Mario and his friends into adorable Cat forms. This power-up lets you climb walls, pounce on enemies, and generally be a super agile feline. The level design in Super Mario 3D World is nothing short of brilliant. Each stage is packed with secrets, hidden areas, and clever challenges that will test your platforming skills. From cascading waterfalls to haunted mansions, every world feels fresh and exciting. The game also shines in its multiplayer mode. You can team up with up to three friends to tackle levels together, creating chaotic but hilarious gameplay. Coordinating jumps, sharing power-ups, and even throwing each other around are all part of the fun. The roster of playable characters adds to the variety, with Mario, Luigi, Peach, and Toad each offering their unique abilities. Mario is the all-arounder, Luigi can jump higher, Peach can float, and Toad is the fastest on the ground. Choosing the right character for each level can make a significant difference. Power-ups are another key element of Super Mario 3D World. Besides the Super Bell, you'll find classics like the Fire Flower, Super Mushroom, and Super Star. There are also new additions like the Double Cherry, which creates clones of your character, and the Boomerang Flower, which lets you attack enemies from a distance. Collecting Green Stars is essential for unlocking new levels and progressing through the game. These collectibles are often hidden in tricky spots, requiring you to explore every nook and cranny of each stage. Stamps, another type of collectible, can be used to decorate your Miiverse posts (though this feature is less relevant on the Switch). The boss battles in Super Mario 3D World are memorable and creative. Each boss has unique attack patterns and weaknesses, requiring you to use your skills and power-ups strategically. From Boom Boom to Pom Pom, these encounters add a thrilling challenge to the game. The Switch version of Super Mario 3D World brings several improvements over the original. The gameplay is smoother, with increased movement speed for all characters. The online multiplayer mode has been enhanced, allowing you to play with friends remotely. Overall, Super Mario 3D World is a must-play for any Mario fan. Its charming visuals, inventive level design, and engaging multiplayer make it a timeless classic.

Bowser's Fury: An Open-World Mario Adventure

Now, let's move on to the main course: Bowser's Fury. This is where the Super Mario 3D World package truly shines. Bowser's Fury is an entirely new adventure that takes Mario into an open-world environment, a first for the 3D Mario series. Imagine Super Mario Odyssey meets Super Mario 3D World, and you're getting close to the experience. The setting of Bowser's Fury is Lake Lapcat, a sprawling archipelago of islands connected by a vast, shimmering lake. The landscape is dotted with cat-themed structures, lush greenery, and ominous, black goo. The story begins with Mario arriving at Lake Lapcat to find Bowser transformed into a colossal, enraged beast known as Fury Bowser. This monstrous form of Bowser is wreaking havoc on the land, and it's up to Mario to team up with Bowser Jr. to stop him. Yes, you read that right. Mario and Bowser Jr. join forces in an unlikely alliance. Bowser Jr. acts as a support character, assisting Mario in combat and exploration. He can be controlled by a second player in local co-op mode, adding another layer of fun to the gameplay. The core gameplay in Bowser's Fury revolves around collecting Cat Shines, which are similar to the Shine Sprites from Super Mario Sunshine. These collectibles are scattered throughout Lake Lapcat, and you'll need to gather enough of them to unlock new areas and progress through the game. The open-world design of Bowser's Fury is a game-changer for the Super Mario 3D World formula. You're free to explore the islands at your own pace, discovering hidden secrets, completing challenges, and battling enemies. The seamless transitions between areas add to the sense of freedom and exploration. One of the defining features of Bowser's Fury is the recurring presence of Fury Bowser. Periodically, the sky darkens, and Fury Bowser emerges from the lake, unleashing a barrage of attacks. These encounters are intense and dynamic, forcing you to adapt your strategy and use the environment to your advantage. To defeat Fury Bowser, you'll need to collect Giga Cat Bells, which transform Mario into Giga Cat Mario, a massive, super-powered version of his cat form. These battles are epic in scale, pitting you against Fury Bowser in a clash of titans. The dynamic weather system in Bowser's Fury adds to the atmosphere. The game seamlessly transitions between sunny skies and stormy conditions, with Fury Bowser's appearances often coinciding with the latter. This creates a sense of urgency and unpredictability, keeping you on your toes. The challenges in Bowser's Fury are diverse and engaging. You'll encounter platforming puzzles, combat challenges, and exploration tasks that will test your skills and creativity. The game also introduces new power-ups, such as the Super Bell, which returns from Super Mario 3D World, and the Invincibility Bell, which makes you temporarily invulnerable. The world of Bowser's Fury is filled with secrets and hidden areas. You'll need to explore every nook and cranny to find all the Cat Shines and unlock the game's full potential. From hidden caves to underwater passages, there's always something new to discover. Bowser's Fury is a bold and innovative addition to the Mario franchise. Its open-world design, dynamic gameplay, and epic boss battles make it a must-play for any fan of the series. It's a glimpse into the future of 3D Mario games, and it's an exciting one.

Tips and Tricks for Mastering Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury

Alright, guys, let's arm you with some essential tips and tricks to conquer both Super Mario 3D World and Bowser's Fury. Whether you're aiming for a perfect run or just trying to get through the game, these strategies will definitely give you an edge. First off, let's talk about Super Mario 3D World. Mastering the Cat Suit is crucial. Learn to use its climbing and pouncing abilities effectively. The Cat Suit allows you to scale walls, reach hidden areas, and attack enemies from above. Experiment with different angles and timings to maximize its potential. In multiplayer, communication is key. Coordinate with your teammates to solve puzzles, share power-ups, and revive each other when needed. Don't be afraid to use teamwork to overcome challenging sections. Pay attention to the level design. Super Mario 3D World is packed with secrets and hidden areas. Explore every corner of each stage to find Green Stars, Stamps, and other collectibles. Look for suspicious walls, hidden passages, and cleverly concealed platforms. Use the right character for the job. Each character in Super Mario 3D World has unique abilities. Mario is the all-arounder, Luigi can jump higher, Peach can float, and Toad is the fastest on the ground. Choose the character that best suits the level's challenges. Don't forget about power-ups. Power-ups can be a lifesaver in Super Mario 3D World. Use them strategically to overcome obstacles, defeat enemies, and reach hidden areas. The Double Cherry, in particular, can be incredibly useful for solving puzzles and accessing secret locations. Now, let's move on to Bowser's Fury. Learn the Fury Bowser patterns. Fury Bowser's attacks are predictable, but they can be devastating if you're not prepared. Pay attention to his movements and learn how to dodge his attacks. Use the environment to your advantage. The environment in Bowser's Fury is interactive and can be used to your advantage. Hide behind objects to avoid Fury Bowser's attacks, use platforms to reach higher areas, and exploit the terrain to defeat enemies. Collect Cat Shines efficiently. Cat Shines are essential for progressing through Bowser's Fury. Focus on completing the main objectives first, then explore the islands to find the remaining collectibles. Use the map to track your progress and identify areas you haven't explored yet. Master the Giga Cat Mario form. The Giga Cat Mario form is your ultimate weapon against Fury Bowser. Learn how to use its powerful attacks and defensive abilities effectively. Don't be afraid to experiment with different strategies to defeat Fury Bowser. Use Bowser Jr.'s abilities. Bowser Jr. can assist you in combat and exploration. Use his paint attacks to stun enemies, reveal hidden objects, and create platforms. Coordinate with Bowser Jr. to overcome challenging sections. Finally, don't give up. Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury can be challenging, but it's also incredibly rewarding. If you're stuck on a particular level or boss, take a break, try a different approach, and don't be afraid to ask for help. With persistence and a little bit of skill, you'll be able to conquer every challenge and emerge victorious.

Conclusion: Why You Should Play Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury

So there you have it, folks! Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury is more than just a re-release; it's a fantastic package that offers a wealth of content for both new and returning players. Whether you're a fan of classic Mario platforming or you're looking for a fresh, open-world adventure, this game has something for everyone. Super Mario 3D World is a charming and inventive game that's perfect for both solo and multiplayer experiences. Its colorful visuals, clever level design, and engaging gameplay make it a timeless classic. The addition of online multiplayer enhances the experience, allowing you to play with friends from around the world. Bowser's Fury is a bold and innovative addition to the Mario franchise. Its open-world design, dynamic gameplay, and epic boss battles make it a must-play for any fan of the series. It's a glimpse into the future of 3D Mario games, and it's an exciting one. The combination of Super Mario 3D World and Bowser's Fury makes this package an incredible value. You're getting two fantastic games for the price of one, and both offer hours of entertainment. Whether you're a seasoned Mario veteran or a newcomer to the series, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury is a game that you shouldn't miss. So, grab your Switch, gather your friends, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure. With its charming visuals, inventive gameplay, and wealth of content, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury is a game that will keep you entertained for hours on end. It's a celebration of everything that makes Mario great, and it's a testament to the enduring power of the franchise. So what are you waiting for? Dive in and experience the magic of Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury for yourself! You won't regret it.