Super Mario 3D All-Stars is a collection of three of the Nintendo mascot’s best games. Spread across several console generations, players will be able to enjoy Super Mario 64, Super Mario Sunshine, and Super Mario Galaxy. Each of these titles are considered by many to be some of the best Mario games in the plumber’s entire catalog, with Super Mario Sunshine getting its first re-release since it launched in 2002. Given the sheer age of these games, there will be quite a few people who have never experienced racing a fat penguin down an ice slide or flying through the universe as Mario.
Does It Have Multiplayer?
Super Mario 3D All-Stars does offer multiplayer, but there’s a catch to this feature. While local co-op is available for Super Mario Galaxy, the other two entries are strictly a singleplayer experience. Similar to how the game functioned on the Wii, one user will control Mario while the other controls the stylus and is able to freeze enemies and interact with some items in the environment. You will need to detach the Joy-Cons to play co-op, this won’t work if someone is using the Pro Controller. To enable co-op mode, go to Super Mario Galaxy’s menu and then press the Minus button and then select Co-Star Mode. This will allow you to sync the Joy-Cons so you can play with a friend!
There doesn’t appear to be any online component to Super Mario 3D All-Stars, so you are strictly locked into local play. That being said, the co-op functionality isn’t necessary at all to enjoy Super Mario Galaxy so don’t fret if you are tackling this collection alone.
More Super Mario 3D All-Stars:
Is the Super Mario 3D All-Stars Collection Worth It?
Priced at $59.99 and available only for a limited time, the Super Mario 3D All-Stars is a great choice for those wanting to revisit these classic games. That being said, Nintendo didn’t add much in terms of additional content or even polish. While the updated resolution is welcomed, don’t expect the graphics to be fully remastered from the ground up such as the Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy. Additionally, there are no new features, alterations, or add-ons outside of the soundtrack for each of the three games. If you were hoping for perhaps artwork, new levels, or even cosmetic options then you’re out of luck.
That all being said, if you haven’t played any of these games then I strongly suggest giving the collection a try. These games average between 10-20 hours long depending on if you want to 100% them and your general skill level. Super Mario 64 laid the foundation for 3D games and platformers, while Super Mario Sunshine is a gloriously weird entry. Many also consider the psychedelic Super Mario Galaxy to be the single best 3D Mario game ever made thanks to its unique level design and terrific mechanics. For Nintendo veterans, whether this collection is worth the price tag entirely depends on if you’re content with these ultimately just being ports and not complete remasters. They all function, but games like Super Mario 64 are beginning to show their age due to the N64’s control scheme.
Even though it won’t be winning any awards, this is a nice offering for those who have been dying to revisit some of Nintendo’s greatest hits.
