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 Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020?

Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 on the Nintendo Switch is a vibrant and content-packed crossover that celebrates both the Olympic spirit and the long-running rivalry between Mario and Sonic the Hedgehog. As one of the more modern entries in the series, it blends traditional sports gameplay with creative twists, retro-inspired visuals, and a surprising amount of variety.

At its core, the game is a collection of Olympic events, including staples like the 100m dash, swimming, and hurdles, alongside newer additions like skateboarding, surfing, and sport climbing. Each event is designed to be easy to pick up but challenging to master, often relying on timing, rhythm, or quick reactions. The Nintendo Switch’s versatility plays a big role here—players can use button controls, motion controls with Joy-Cons, or even touchscreen inputs in handheld mode.

One of the standout features of this entry is the Story Mode, which is more ambitious than in previous games. The plot involves Mario, Sonic, and their friends being transported into a retro-style video game set during the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. This clever setup allows the game to switch between modern 3D events and charming 2D pixel-art competitions. The retro segments are especially enjoyable, offering a nostalgic throwback feel while still delivering solid gameplay. It’s a creative idea that adds depth and variety, helping the game feel more like a complete experience rather than just a collection of mini-games.

The roster of characters is another strong point. Players can choose from a wide selection of familiar faces from both franchises, including heroes, villains, and supporting characters. Each character has their own strengths, which can give them an advantage in certain events. While this adds a bit of strategy, it doesn’t overwhelm the game’s casual nature.

Multiplayer is where Tokyo 2020 really shines. Whether you’re playing locally with friends or competing online, the game captures that classic party-game energy. Quick rounds and simple rules make it easy for anyone to jump in, regardless of skill level. Motion controls, in particular, can be a lot of fun in a group setting, even if they’re not always the most precise option.

That said, the game isn’t without its flaws. While there are many events, not all of them feel equally polished. Some are genuinely fun and replayable, while others feel shallow or overly dependent on button mashing. This inconsistency can make the experience feel uneven over time.

Another issue is replay value for solo players. While the Story Mode is enjoyable, it’s relatively short, and once you’ve completed it and tried all the events, there isn’t a strong sense of progression to keep you coming back. The game is clearly designed with multiplayer in mind, so those playing alone may find it loses its appeal more quickly.

Visually, the game is bright and colorful, with lively animations and detailed environments inspired by Tokyo. The mix of modern graphics and retro pixel art gives it a unique identity within the series. The soundtrack is energetic and fitting, though it may not leave a lasting impression.

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 in most events except Karate, Boxing and all the 2D events those mentioned are only 2-players and for both 4-player and 2-player events are done on one Nintendo Switch.

Pros

• Wide variety of Olympic events, including modern additions
• Creative and enjoyable Story Mode with retro 2D segments
• Fun multiplayer experience, both local and online
• Large roster of beloved characters
• Multiple control options (buttons, motion, touchscreen)

Cons

• Inconsistent quality between events
• Some mini-games feel shallow or repetitive
• Limited long-term replay value for solo players
• Motion controls can be imprecise at times

Summary

Overall, Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 is a fun and energetic party game that’s best enjoyed with friends and family. Its creative Story Mode and mix of modern and retro gameplay help it stand out, while the variety of events keeps things interesting—at least for a while. Although it doesn’t offer the deepest gameplay or the longest-lasting solo experience, it succeeds in delivering a lighthearted and accessible sports game that captures the spirit of both franchises. If you’re looking for a colorful multiplayer game with quick, competitive fun, this entry is a strong choice.

If you enjoy Mario & Sonic like we do, try checking out my post about Mario & Sonic London Olympic Games (3DS Version)!

Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 – 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 Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games?

Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games on the Nintendo 3DS is a unique entry in the long-running crossover series featuring Mario and Sonic the Hedgehog. While the series is known for its party-style sports gameplay, the 3DS version takes a slightly different approach compared to its console counterpart, offering a more portable-focused and story-driven experience.

At its core, the game is a collection of Olympic-themed events, ranging from track and field to more specialized competitions like BMX and gymnastics. The 3DS version stands out by including over 50 events, which is actually more than the Wii version in terms of raw variety . These events are designed to take advantage of the 3DS hardware, incorporating touch controls, microphone input, and motion features. This gives the gameplay a fun, experimental feel, as each event tries to do something a little different.

One of the biggest highlights of the 3DS version is its Story Mode. Unlike many sports party games, this mode introduces a narrative where players must clear a mysterious fog threatening London before the Olympic Games begin . While the story itself is simple and lighthearted, it adds a sense of progression and purpose that helps tie all the events together. It also encourages players to try a wider variety of activities instead of just replaying their favorites.

Gameplay-wise, the experience is very much a mix of quick mini-games. Some events feel responsive and satisfying, especially those that rely on timing and rhythm. Others, however, can feel a bit awkward due to the reliance on different control methods like blowing into the microphone or rapidly tapping the touchscreen. This inconsistency is one of the game’s biggest drawbacks—it can feel “hit or miss” depending on the event .

Another notable feature is how characters are handled. The game includes a large roster divided into different categories, with each character having strengths suited for certain events . However, not all characters can participate in every event, which can feel limiting at times. While this adds a layer of strategy, it may frustrate players who simply want to use their favorite character in every competition.

Visually, the game is colorful and lively, making good use of the 3DS’s 3D effect. The environments are based on real London Olympic venues, but they’re stylized in a way that fits the Mario and Sonic universes. The music is energetic and fitting, though not especially memorable.

In terms of replay value, the game does a decent job. The large number of events, combined with multiplayer options, gives players plenty to do. However, because most events are short and somewhat simple, the experience can become repetitive over time—especially for older players.

Difference Between the 3DS Version and the Wii Version

The 3DS and Wii versions of Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games are actually quite different experiences. The Wii version focuses more on party-style gameplay, featuring modes like “London Party,” which plays like a board game with mini-games mixed in . It also includes “Dream Events,” which are imaginative, over-the-top versions of Olympic sports set in Mario and Sonic-themed environments.

In contrast, the 3DS version leans more toward single-player content and portability. It includes a dedicated Story Mode (which the Wii version lacks in the same form) and emphasizes quick, bite-sized gameplay sessions suited for handheld play. The control schemes also differ significantly—the Wii uses motion controls, while the 3DS relies on buttons, touch, and other handheld features.

Another key difference is structure. The Wii version allows players to freely choose events in a more traditional party format, while the 3DS version often organizes events through progression systems and character groupings. Overall, the Wii version feels more like a social party game, while the 3DS version feels more like a solo-friendly mini-game collection with added narrative elements.

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-players on one Nintendo 2DS/3DS and 4-player with multiable devices.

Pros

• Huge variety of events (50+ activities)
• Fun and engaging Story Mode
• Great use of 3DS features (touch, mic, motion)
• Large roster of characters from both franchises
• Portable and easy to play in short sessions

Cons

• Gameplay quality varies between events
• Heavy reliance on luck or gimmicky controls in some mini-games
• Character restrictions can feel limiting
• Can become repetitive over time
• Less of a party-game feel compared to the Wii version

Summary

Overall, Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games is a solid, if slightly uneven, entry in the series. It shines most when you’re playing casually or enjoying the Story Mode, but it doesn’t quite reach the same level of excitement as its console counterpart. If you’re looking for a portable, content-rich sports game with plenty of variety, it’s definitely worth trying. However, if you prefer a more social, party-focused experience, the Wii version may be the better choice.

If you enjoyed this game, try checking out my post about Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020!

Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games – Review (3DS Version) 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.

How to unlock characters

This is the order you unlock characters. It’s organized by what order you would unlock them in Smash Matches.

Mario, Donkey Kong, Link, Samus, Yoshi, Kirby, Fox and Pikachu are unlocked from the start. Mii Fighters are to, but you have to make one.

How to avoid unlocking a character

There may be some characters you don’t want. Like if you only want Super Mario characters, you can do that. Here’s how:

For example, you’re doing Fox’s Classic mode to try to get Peach. But first you need to challenge Caption Falcon and Zero Suit Samus. Well, if you fail they will go to “Challenger’s Approach”. Now do Fox’s mode again and Peach is next. Oh no! you failed? no worries there is a fix for that to.

Once getting Caption Falcon and Zero Suit Samus to wait in Challenger’s Approach” you can re-challenge them. But press pause (before moving) and chose “Quit”. Go back in and then it will be Zero Suit Samus! do it again and this time it will be Peach.

Now you can just do that until everyone has challenged you. You can now just have Mario characters and avoid everyone else besides the ones you start with.

THE best character

Like I said in my other post, That’s a matter of opinion. Just what moveset, speed or strength can be different or even you just like Rosalina but not because of her moves but you just like her.

My opinion is Peach/Daisy have the best movesets. But Sonic is the fastest and Bowser or Donkey Kong is the strongest. I like to play as Daisy, Isabelle and Zelda but that’s just my opinion.

Alt colors for characters

Alt colors are different colors of a character. Like for example, by pressing ZL or ZR you can make Daisy have a green, pink, blue, red, purple, black or white dress.

Once you unlock a character you have all the different colors available. You don’t need to unlock them. Just press ZL or ZR while hovering on a character and it will change their color. Each character has eight colors (including their starting color).

I really hope my post helps you if you need to know how to unlock or avoid unlocking a character. If you have any tips please feel free to comment below!

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate – Character Guide 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.

How to bounce back after falling

Some people see the CPUs jumping back on stage like there’s nothing to it and so a lot of people ask HOW? and my answer is this.

Here is an easy way that you can do with most of the characters: Double jump then use Up Special to get back on. Although some characters may have trouble using that (like Jigglypuff) it’s still an easy way that works for most of the characters.

Some characters have good recovery after falling/bounce back to get on stage after being knocked off the stage. Like Zelda for example can keep teleporting onto the stage.

For the best recovery I would say that Meta Knight and Sheik have the best. Meta Knight’s Up Special can get you back on stage pretty good Sheik’s Up Special and Side Special works good to.

Although, Isabelle can use her fishing rod to get back on stage or even drag players off stage with her. Her Up Special can work good to.

Fastest and Strongest characters

The game has loads of characters to play as so you might ask “Which one is the best?” Well, best moveset, speed and strength are all good things to go for in this game.

It might be hard to pick just one based on all of those states, so just go with the one you like best. Some are really good at one thing but not so much the other, below is a list which I hope helps:

• Best moveset overall– That’s all a matter of opinion. My opinion is Peach/Daisy have the best overall moveset.
• Fastest– The best character for speed is of course Sonic the Hedgehog. He has some pretty good attacks, bounce back and smash attacks. My favorite move is probably his smash moves which I talk about more later.
• Strongest– The Strongest I would say is Bowser. He has strong attacks that easily send you flying.

Don’t forget about the “Smash” attacks!

Smash attacks are good attacks you can ush to easily blast someone off screen. Using the Right Control Stick and tilting it up, down or to the side it will do different attacks.

For example, Peach’s side smash attack is using a golf club and swinging it to launch someone off screen. But while hold the right stick, if you move the left stick up, it will become a frying pan and holding down makes it a tennis racket.

They are each a little different. The Golf Club has the farthest reach, the frying pan can launch the farthest and do the most damage. The tennis racket launches at a low angle, so if you’re waiting at the edge to make them fall it’s a good one to use.

Sonic has a really good up smash attack. His jumps up into a ball and attacks the player who is in reach. It’s really good for getting some good damage on someone.

I hope you found my Tip and Tricks for this game helpful! if you have any to share, feel free to comment below.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate – Tips and Tricks 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 Super Smash Bros. Ultimate?

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is the latest installment in the popular Super Smash Bros. fighting game series developed by Nintendo for the Nintendo Switch. It features a characters selection of over 70 characters from various video game series, including Super Mario, Sonic the Hedgehog, The Legend of Zelda, Pokémon, Kirby, and more.

The game offers an incredibly fun and fast-paced gameplay experience, with up to 8-players battling it out on a variety of stages. The controls start off a bit hard to get used two because X is jump, but you can change that in the settings.

The graphics in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate are stunning, with vibrant colors and detailed character models. The music is also top-notch, featuring remixes of classic video game tunes.

There are also ten fun modes to choose from. Here is a list of them all below:

• Smash – Play normal game fighting with either teams or free-for-all up to 8-players.
• Special Smash – Play a game of smash but with different rules that mix the game up.
• Squad Strike – Play with two teams and ither 3 or 5 characters. Once one person gets knocked off they switch to the next character until one team wins. This mode is only 2-players.
• Tourney – In this mode you can have up to 32 participants competing and fight off against them to make it to the top. This mode is up to 4-players.
• Spirit Board – Play this mode to try and unlock spirts (which upgrade stats like attack power or speed). This mode is up to 4-players.
• Classic mode – Play as a character for six matches against CPUs to win. This mode is up to 2-players.
• Training – Train and practice your skills for smash matches. This mode is only 1-player.
• Mob Smash – Face off against 100 CPUs to win. This mode is up to 4-players.
• Home-Run Contest – Try to make Mr. Sandbag blast off the stage. This mode is up to 4-players.
• Online – Play a smash match with players from all over the world.

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 8-players on one Nintendo Switch.

Pros

There is multiple pros for this game. Like there’s over 70 different characters and 100 stages to choose from.

There is also lots of different gameplay modes to play, including classic, adventure, online multiplayer, and more.

Stunning visuals and sound design, with graphics that truly shine on the Nintendo Switch. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate has refined gameplay mechanics, making it the best-playing entry in the series to date.

Cons

There’s not really two much cons to this game. Online matchmaking can be inconsistent, leading to lag or disconnects.

Learning the controls might be a little overwhelming due to all the different combinations. When there is a “Challenger Approaching” you can choose to do it later you would have to fail to try it later which doesn’t seem right.

Summary

Overall, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a must-have for any Nintendo Switch owner. With its large roster of characters, fun gameplay, and variety of modes, it offers endless hours of entertainment for both casual and competitive players.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate – 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.