Why Super Mario Maker?

Super Mario Maker is a creative platform game that allows players to design, play, and share their own Mario levels. Instead of only playing levels designed by developers, players are given the tools to create their own courses using enemies, blocks, power-ups, and many other familiar objects from the Mario series. The game celebrates the long history of Mario platform games by allowing players to build levels using several different visual styles inspired by classic titles.

The original version of Super Mario Maker was released for the Nintendo Wii U, and later a version called Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS was released for the Nintendo 3DS system. While both versions share the same basic idea of creating and playing Mario levels, there are some important differences between them.

The Wii U version is generally considered the main version of the game. One of its biggest strengths is the level creation system. Using the Wii U GamePad touchscreen, players can easily drag and drop items onto the stage. This makes building levels feel smooth and intuitive, almost like drawing on a digital canvas. Players can experiment with placing enemies, pipes, moving platforms, and many other objects.

The Wii U version also allows players to design levels using multiple visual styles based on classic Mario games. These include the looks of Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros. 3, Super Mario World, and New Super Mario Bros. U. Each style changes how the game looks and feels while still letting players create creative and interesting courses.

Another major feature of the Wii U version is online level sharing. Players can upload their creations to the internet so other players around the world can try them. In addition, players can browse and play thousands of courses made by other people. This feature gives the game nearly endless replay value because new levels are constantly being added.

The Nintendo 3DS version includes the same basic building tools and gameplay mechanics, but there are some limitations compared to the Wii U version. The level editor still works well on the 3DS touchscreen, allowing players to place objects and build levels in a similar way. However, the biggest difference is that the 3DS version does not allow players to upload their levels online for others to download.

Instead, the 3DS version focuses more on local sharing. Players can share levels with nearby friends through local wireless connections. While this still allows players to exchange courses, it greatly reduces the massive online community that made the Wii U version so exciting.

The 3DS version does include many pre-made levels that players can try. These built-in courses provide plenty of challenges and examples of creative level design. For players who mainly want to play levels rather than create them, this can still provide a lot of entertainment.

Another difference is that the Wii U version has more online features, such as searching for popular levels or exploring different categories of player-created courses. These features help players discover creative or challenging levels from around the world.

Visually, both versions look similar because they share the same art styles. However, the Wii U version generally runs on a larger screen and can feel easier to view when designing complicated levels. The 3DS version is portable, which means players can create or play levels anywhere.

The music and sound effects in both versions are cheerful and familiar. Each visual style includes classic Mario sounds that longtime fans will recognize. These details help give the game a strong sense of nostalgia.

Despite the differences between versions, the core idea of creative level design remains fun in both games. Players can experiment with unusual enemy placements, tricky jumps, or clever puzzles. Some players enjoy designing traditional Mario-style levels, while others create wild or humorous challenges.

However, the game also has a few drawbacks.

Because the game allows anyone to design levels, not every level is well designed. Some courses may feel unfair or confusing. This is more noticeable in the Wii U version due to its large online library of levels.

Additionally, designing complicated courses can take time and practice. New players might need a while to fully understand how different objects interact.

The 3DS version’s lack of full online sharing is also a significant limitation for players who want their levels to reach a large audience.

How We Test Games

For testing games we use a Nintendo Switch firmware version 2H. Hardware includes Joy-con and Pro controller on a large screen TV. Tests are done with up to 5 players. We take turns playing and evaluating games.

Whenever possible we play multiple players. We also use a Nintendo 2DS, DS XL, and for PC games we use a Ryzen 7 1700x CPU, AMD RX580, running on Win 10. This game is up to 1-player on one Nintendo 2DS/3DS and Wii U.

Pros

Powerful level creation tools.

Multiple visual styles from classic Mario games.

Encourages creativity and experimentation.

Wii U version includes online sharing and thousands of player-created levels.

3DS version allows portable level building and play.

Fun for both creating and playing courses.

Cons

Some player-created levels may be poorly designed or overly difficult.

Creating advanced levels can take time to learn.

The 3DS version lacks the full online sharing features of the Wii U version.

The Wii U version requires internet features to fully experience the community content.

Summary

Overall, Super Mario Maker is a unique and creative Mario game that gives players the power to become level designers. The Wii U version offers the best experience because of its online sharing and large community of creators. However, the 3DS version still provides fun level creation and portable gameplay for players who want to design courses on the go. Both versions celebrate the creativity and imagination of Mario fans, making Super Mario Maker one of the most inventive games in the series.

Super Mario Maker – Review brought to you by Gaming Chickadee

Chickadee loves to have family gaming days. She loves birds, unicorns, ponies She also likes the Nancy Drew Games. She loves to play as Princess Daisy in the Super Mario Games, Her favorite games change a lot but right they are: Mario Party Superstars, Super Mario Bros. Wonder and Pretty Princess Party.

Why Twinkleby?

Twinkleby is a gentle, whimsical life-simulation and exploration game that invites players into a small, magical village filled with cozy routines, quiet discovery, and charming characters. Rather than focusing on high-stakes challenges or fast-paced action, the game emphasizes creativity, mindfulness, and emotional comfort. It is designed to feel like a peaceful escape—one where the joy comes from everyday moments and the simple act of being present in a warm, imaginative world.

The setting of Twinkleby is immediately inviting. The village feels alive with soft colors, twinkling lights, and a storybook atmosphere that encourages slow exploration. Each area has its own personality, from quiet outdoor spaces to cozy interiors that feel carefully crafted and welcoming. The art style leans into softness and charm, creating an environment that feels safe and soothing without becoming dull or lifeless.

Gameplay in Twinkleby centers around daily activities, exploration, and light customization. Players can wander through the village, interact with objects, complete gentle tasks, and gradually shape their surroundings. There is no pressure to complete objectives quickly, and the game rarely punishes mistakes. This design choice makes the experience feel relaxing and inclusive, particularly for players who want a low-stress game they can return to at their own pace.

One of the game’s strongest elements is its sense of routine. Twinkleby encourages players to slow down and enjoy repetition as something comforting rather than tedious. Simple actions—such as tidying spaces, helping characters, or collecting items—become small rituals that add to the feeling of living in the world rather than simply playing through it. This makes the game ideal for short daily play sessions or longer, peaceful evenings.

Character interaction plays a key role in shaping the experience. The residents of Twinkleby are gentle, expressive, and full of subtle personality. Conversations are warm and often reflective, reinforcing the game’s focus on kindness and emotional connection. Relationships grow naturally over time, rewarding patience and consistency rather than rapid progress. These interactions help give the village a sense of heart and meaning beyond its visual charm.

Sound design also contributes heavily to the game’s cozy appeal. Soft music and ambient sounds enhance the atmosphere without becoming distracting. The soundtrack blends seamlessly into the experience, making Twinkleby feel like a calm space to relax in rather than a game demanding constant attention.

However, Twinkleby’s strengths may also be its limitations for some players. The slow pace and minimal challenge may not appeal to those who prefer complex mechanics or intense gameplay. Progression is gradual, and the game focuses more on mood and routine than on achievement or mastery. Players seeking deep systems or dramatic story arcs may find the experience too subtle or understated.

Replay value depends largely on how much the player enjoys the game’s atmosphere and core loop. While there may not be dramatic changes between playthroughs, the comfort of returning to familiar spaces can be rewarding in its own way. Twinkleby is best enjoyed as a gentle companion game—something you revisit to unwind rather than to conquer.

How We Test Games

For testing games we use a Nintendo Switch firmware version 2H. Hardware includes Joy-con and Pro controller on a large screen TV. Tests are done with up to 5 players. We take turns playing and evaluating games.

Whenever possible we play multiple players. We also use a Nintendo 2DS, DS XL, and for PC games we use a Ryzen 7 1700x CPU, AMD RX580, running on Win 10. This game is up to 4-players on one Nintendo Switch.

Pros

Beautiful, soft art style with a storybook feel.

Relaxing, low-pressure gameplay ideal for cozy gaming.

Charming characters and warm interactions.

Encourages mindfulness and routine.

Soothing music and ambient sound design.

Great for short or calming play sessions.

Cons

Very slow pace may not suit action-focused players.

Limited challenge and complexity.

Progression can feel subtle or repetitive.

Less appealing for players seeking deep mechanics or competition.

Summary

Overall, Twinkleby succeeds as a thoughtfully designed cozy game that prioritizes emotional warmth, creativity, and peaceful exploration. It may not be for everyone, but for players who enjoy slow, comforting experiences, it offers a charming and restorative escape into a softly magical world.

Twinkleby – Review brought to you by Gaming Chickadee

Chickadee loves to have family gaming days. She loves birds, unicorns, ponies She also likes the Nancy Drew Games. She loves to play as Princess Daisy in the Super Mario Games, Her favorite games change a lot but right they are: Mario Party Superstars, Super Mario Bros. Wonder and Pretty Princess Party.

Why MakeRoom?

MakeRoom is a creative sandbox game that gives you the freedom to build, arrange, and decorate your own cozy spaces. It’s less about surviving or competing and more about expressing yourself through interior design and small, personal touches. The game provides a simple but flexible toolset, letting you choose furniture, colors, and layouts to craft rooms that reflect your imagination.

What makes MakeRoom shine is its balance between simplicity and creativity. The controls are straightforward, making it easy for anyone to pick up and start designing, but there’s also a lot of depth if you enjoy experimenting with placement, combinations, and style. It’s satisfying to see an empty space come alive with just the right arrangement of objects.

The overall vibe is relaxing. There are no timers, pressure, or stress—you play at your own pace, creating environments that feel warm and personal. That said, players looking for a more traditional “game” with goals or challenges might find the experience a bit too open-ended.

How We Test Games

For testing games we use a Nintendo Switch firmware version 2H. Hardware includes Joy-con and Pro controller on a large screen TV. Tests are done with up to 5 players. We take turns playing and evaluating games.

Whenever possible we play multiple players. We also use a Nintendo 2DS, DS XL, and for PC games we use a Ryzen 7 1700x CPU, AMD RX580, running on Win 10. This game only 1-players on PC/Steam.

Pros

Relaxing, creative gameplay with no pressure.

Easy-to-learn controls, welcoming for all players.

Wide variety of furniture and design options.

Great for expressing your own personal style.

Cozy atmosphere that encourages experimentation.

Custom furniture that you can make, edit and export into you own games.

Cons

Lacks structured goals or challenges for players who want progression.

May not appeal to those who prefer fast-paced gameplay.

Repetition can set in if you’re not motivated by self-expression.

Summary

Overall, MakeRoom is a soothing and creative sandbox that’s all about self-expression. If you enjoy decorating, tinkering with layouts, or simply making spaces feel like your own, it’s a lovely game to relax with. For fans of cozy design sims, this is a little gem that encourages imagination above all else.

MakeRoom – Game Review brought to you by Gaming Chickadee

Chickadee loves to have family gaming days. She loves birds, unicorns, ponies She also likes the Nancy Drew Games. She loves to play as Princess Daisy in the Super Mario Games, Her favorite games change a lot but right they are: Mario Party Superstars, Super Mario Bros. Wonder and Pretty Princess Party.