Super Mario 3D World – Complete Guide with FAQs for 2025

Super Mario 3D World, originally released for Wii U in 2013 and enhanced for Nintendo Switch in 2021 as Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury, is a 3D platformer that blends classic Mario level design with cooperative multiplayer. The game challenges players to rescue Sprixie fairies, collect Green Stars, and earn Stamps across eight worlds. Its Switch re-release added a new standalone campaign, Bowser’s Fury, offering a more open-ended experience.

This guide covers everything from platforms and multiplayer to buying options and common questions like whether the game is on DS or supports online play. All information is based on official sources and verified facts.

What is Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury?

• Super Mario 3D World originally launched on Wii U in 2013 and was re-released for Nintendo Switch in 2021 as “Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury”.
• The Switch version includes the entire original game plus a new standalone campaign, Bowser’s Fury, which is a more open-world experience.
• Multiplayer is local only (up to 4 players); there is no online co-op or versus mode.
• The game does not exist on Nintendo DS or 3DS – it is often confused with Super Mario 3D Land (a different game on 3DS).
• The game is widely available at retailers like Amazon, CeX (used), and Smyths Toys; it is also available via Nintendo eShop.
• With the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, backward compatibility is expected but not yet confirmed for this title.

Which platforms can you play Super Mario 3D World on?

Super Mario 3D World is available on two Nintendo consoles: the Wii U and the Nintendo Switch. The Switch version is the definitive edition, including the Bowser’s Fury expansion and performance enhancements. It is not available on Nintendo DS or 3DS, a common misconception due to the similarly named Super Mario 3D Land.

Is Super Mario 3D World available on Nintendo DS?

No. Super Mario 3D World was never released on any DS system. The title often confused with it, Super Mario 3D Land, is a different game released for the Nintendo 3DS in 2011. The two games share a similar camera style but have distinct level designs and features.

Will Super Mario 3D World be on Nintendo Switch 2?

As of 2025, Nintendo has not officially confirmed backward compatibility for the Switch 2. However, the current Switch version is expected to be playable on the next console if backward compatibility is included. Nintendo has not made an official statement, so players should wait for updates from the company.

Can I play Super Mario 3D World on the original Switch?

Yes, the Nintendo Switch version released in 2021 works on all original Switch models, including the standard, Lite, and OLED editions. The game runs at 1080p in docked mode and 720p in handheld mode, with a smooth 60 frames per second.

Can you play Super Mario 3D World on Wii U?

Yes, the game was originally released for Wii U in 2013. The Wii U eShop closed for purchases on March 27, 2023, but physical copies and digital pre-owned copies can still be found. The Wii U version lacks the Bowser’s Fury expansion and some Switch-exclusive features like Snapshot Mode and Rosalina as a playable character.

How do you play Super Mario 3D World in 2-player (or multiplayer) mode?

Super Mario 3D World supports local co-op for up to four players on the same console. There is no online multiplayer or versus mode. Players choose from Mario, Luigi, Peach, Toad, and Rosalina (unlockable on Switch) and work together to complete levels, collect items, and rescue Sprixies.

How many players can play Super Mario 3D World?

Up to four players can play simultaneously, all using the same screen. The camera dynamically adjusts to keep everyone in view. Each player has their own life count, and they can compete for the highest score on the end-of-level flagpole.

Does Super Mario 3D World have online multiplayer?

No. All multiplayer is local split-screen. The Switch version added system-level friend play via Nintendo Switch Online, but that only allows sharing screenshots or inviting friends to play together locally – not online co-op. This is a notable omission compared to other Switch multiplayer titles.

Can you play Super Mario 3D World co-op?

Yes, the entire main game and Bowser’s Fury can be played cooperatively. In Bowser’s Fury, a second player controls Plessie the dinosaur, assisting Mario. Drop-in, drop-out gameplay is supported.

Where can you buy Super Mario 3D World? (Amazon, CeX, and more)

The Nintendo Switch version of Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury is widely available. Below are common buying options as of 2025.

• Amazon: New copies typically retail around $60, with frequent sales dropping the price to $40. Includes Bowser’s Fury.
• CeX (UK): Pre-owned Switch versions are usually listed between £30 and £40. Prices vary by condition and stock.
• Nintendo eShop: Digital download for $59.99. Requires a Nintendo account and internet connection.
• Wii U physical: Used copies cost roughly $20–40 on eBay, GameStop, or other second-hand markets.

How does Super Mario 3D World compare to Super Mario 3D Land?

Super Mario 3D World and Super Mario 3D Land are often compared due to their similar names and 3D platforming style. However, they are distinct games with different design philosophies.

Super Mario 3D Land (Nintendo 3DS, 2011) is a single-player game with shorter, puzzle-focused levels and a fixed camera angle. It introduced the cat suit and some 3D depth mechanics but was built for a handheld experience.

Super Mario 3D World (Wii U/Switch) is designed for multiplayer, with larger, multi-layered levels, a variety of power-ups (Super Bell, Double Cherry, Cannon Box), and a greater emphasis on exploration and replayability. It includes 84 levels when combined with Bowser’s Fury, compared to 33 levels in 3D Land.

Both games share the same core movement and power-up system, but 3D World is the more expansive and feature-rich title, especially with the Switch re-release.

What are the key features and content of Super Mario 3D World?

This section covers the game’s levels, characters, release timeline, and overall value.

How many levels are in Super Mario 3D World?

The original game contains 8 worlds with over 70 levels. Including secret worlds (World Star, World Mushroom) and the Captain Toad puzzle stages, the total is around 84 levels. Bowser’s Fury adds a separate open world with over 100 Cat Shine collectibles.

What characters can you play?

Players can choose from Mario (balanced), Luigi (higher jump), Peach (float capability), Toad (speed), and Rosalina (spin attack, unlockable in the Switch version). Each character has unique attributes that affect gameplay.

When was Super Mario 3D World released?

The Wii U version launched on November 21, 2013 in Japan, November 22 in North America, and November 29 in Europe. The Switch version with Bowser’s Fury released globally on February 12, 2021.

Is Super Mario 3D World worth buying?

For players who enjoy local multiplayer platformers and want a polished, content-rich experience, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury is widely considered one of the best games on the Switch. The addition of Bowser’s Fury extends playtime to 15–25 hours for 100% completion. The lack of online multiplayer is a downside for solo players seeking online co-op.

When was Super Mario 3D World released?

1. November 21, 2013 – Super Mario 3D World released for Wii U in Japan; North America on November 22, Europe on November 29.
2. February 12, 2021 – Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury released for Nintendo Switch.
3. 2025 – Nintendo Switch 2 announcement; backward compatibility expected but still unconfirmed for this title.

Is Super Mario 3D World available on Nintendo DS?

What is the significance of Super Mario 3D World in the Mario series?

Super Mario 3D World sits in the Mario 3D platformer lineage, bridging the linear level design of Super Mario 3D Land (3DS) and the open-world exploration of Super Mario Odyssey (2017). The Switch re-release revitalised interest in the game and introduced Bowser’s Fury, a experimental open-zone campaign that hints at the series’ future direction.

The game’s lack of online multiplayer is a notable omission compared to other Switch multiplayer titles such as Super Mario Maker 2 and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. This continues to be a common point of confusion for new players.

Confusion with Super Mario 3D Land is frequent due to the naming similarity; clarifying the differences is essential for users searching for “Super Mario 3D World DS”. The upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 generates speculation about backward compatibility, directly affecting purchasing decisions for the current Switch version.

Where can I find reliable information about Super Mario 3D World?

Official details are available from Nintendo’s website and the Nintendo eShop. Factual overviews and release data are maintained on Wikipedia. For in-depth level and character lists, the community-driven Mario Wiki is a useful resource. All three sources are cited below.

“Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury is available exclusively on Nintendo Switch. The game includes both the original 2013 adventure and a new, separate campaign.”

Nintendo Official – Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury

“Super Mario 3D World is a 2013 platform game developed and published by Nintendo for the Wii U. A port for the Nintendo Switch, titled Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury, was released in 2021.”

Wikipedia – Super Mario 3D World

Is Super Mario 3D World worth buying?

If you enjoy local multiplayer platformers with creative level design and a generous amount of content, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury is an excellent choice. The Switch version is the definitive edition, offering faster movement, additional characters, and a whole new campaign. The only significant drawback is the absence of online multiplayer. For a broader look at top co-op games, see our guide to the best Nintendo Switch multiplayer games.

Frequently asked questions about Super Mario 3D World