Super Mario Maker is Coming to 3DS
By Rob Gordon 02 September 2016
Nintendo reveals that creativity-focused Wii U platformer Super Mario Maker is going to be released for the 3DS, with a launch date set for December 2, 2016.
Although the Wii U is a console that will likely be remembered as a missed opportunity, there have still been a handful of games for the system that have delivered quality gaming experiences to players. Chief among these titles is Super Mario Maker, Nintendo’s 2D platformer that asked users to create imaginative Super Mario levels for others to share. Now, the publisher has revealed during its recent 3DS-focused Nintendo Direct that the title is going to receive a port to the 3DS, releasing on December 2, 2016.
It seems as though Nintendo will bring over most of the gameplay elements of the original Super Mario Maker through this 3DS release. The core play of level creation is still there, with players able to choose to create levels based on Super Mario Bros, Super Mario Bros 3, Super Mario World, and New Super Mario Bros. However, there are some limitations when it comes to sharing – and finding – new levels for the game.
The Course ID search tool, which has proved useful for many Super Mario Maker Wii U players, is being removed for the 3DS version. This means that users will need to leave it up to the game itself to choose random and recommended levels, or rely upon the pre-created Nintendo levels that will come with the title. Another potential downside in the game is the level of compatibility with the Wii U version, as not all Wii U levels will work with the 3DS port.
Instead of Course ID choice, Nintendo is putting a much greater emphasis on local sharing, with users able to share – and receive – levels through local WiFi connections and Street Pass. This focus on local sharing certainly has its upsides, too. For starters, players will now be able to share half-finished courses with their friends to collaborate on, which could lead to a good level of feedback on whether certain sections of a level work or not before the final touches are put on the course.
Just how Super Mario Maker will work on the 3DS format remains to be seen, but Nintendo will no doubt be hoping that the title’s success carries over to the handheld market. At first glance, the 3DS seems like a perfect fit for this port of one of the best games of 2015, with the handheld’s emphasis on quick bouts of gameplay likely to work well with gamers on the go. However, some players may be put off by the lack of autonomy when it comes to choosing courses online.
Nintendo fans may also be left wondering if there are any other ports of Super Mario Maker on the way. After all, the Nintendo NX is due to release next year, and Super Mario Maker could be considered one of the Wii U games most deserving of a Nintendo NX port. Should Nintendo feel that the game still has legs, perhaps Super Mario Maker will see life beyond even the 3DS.
Super Mario Maker is currently available for the Wii U, and will be released on the 3DS on December 2, 2016.
Source: Nintendo (YouTube)
