Learning to Love Super Mario 3D World

[@KingKlonoa]

For those of you asking, I have something planned for Bowser's Fury, but it might take a while.

[@jimjam7347]

Can't wait to hear your take on Bowser's Fury and the Gen 4 Pokemon games

[@polyhex]

that’s what i wanna hear!!

[@lh9591]

I found it quite tedious with the “Fury” segments. The game was fun when it was calm.

[@shaunm6383]

Thanks for letting us know.

[@s2heavy]

Yeah let us know. Bowsers fury in my opinion is the best of the two

[@matthewmeyrowitz6760]

I think dunkey said it best "Now that mario odyssey is out we can appreciate 3d world for what it is and not what it could be"

[@elmuchacho3379]

Scott also made a great point about how since it’s no longer the flagship mario game like it was on the wii u, it doesn’t get compared anymore to the likes of sunshine and 64

[@cosmicXtropics]

Despite what either of those overrated KZbin nerds said. The game is incredibly flawed and mediocre compared to what Mario has accomplished in the past. For a game that has 3D in the title it doesn't give the player anything close to what proper 3D Mario titles have done. What it is is a sequel to a THREE DS game without 3D. Nothing more nothing less. Adding optional multiplayer does not result in better gameplay (especially if you play solo).

[@theplinko9840]

@@cosmicXtropics so because its not the exact same experience, its automatically mediocre? It went for a different direction, and that direction is neither objectively better nor objectively worse.

[@therealtijuanaman]

​@@cosmicXtropics Dunkey is *the* video game KZbinr, bucko

[@cosmicXtropics]

@@theplinko9840 It is objectively worse because it's almost an identical mind numbing experience lmao! Like I first said it lacks 3D that was the whole gimmick of the 3D moniker bc the game is 2.5 D. World adds cat based things just like 3D Land offered tonooki based things. It's a cut and paste for different consoles with very minor changes. You still reach a flagpole on set levels at the end of every stage nothing there is groundbreaking 😂

[@MeeraRustshieldSystem]

Please don't stop making these "learning to love" videos. They're easily some of your best content in here, and it's great watching you coming to terms with a new lens to see a game through, a whole new mentality from your previous perspective, and watching you embrace that side with open arms.

[@NathanielBandy]

This is my favorite deep analysis review channel

[@beyondthesky2140]

couldn't agree more

[@SupaCLUCK]

same

[@playbossthebest936]

If Nathaniel says it, then it's true. King K officially *strives for originality*

[@jimjam7347]

Same. Joseph Anderson does some good work as well, though.

[@beyondthesky2140]

@@blakeskit Nerrel's good but doesn't go as deep nor does he have quite as much variety, but that's his style of videos. Plus he makes other content as well

[@shibememes]

i’m glad the game is getting praise it deserved. i think people initially compared it to other 3D Mario games way too much instead of just judging the game by itself. and like this guy says, at the time every mario game was becoming more and more basic and repetitive, so seeing another generic-looking mario just rubbed people the wrong way. i’m not saying it’s SUPER unique and creative, but, i think the game feels a lot more fresh when you aren’t coming off of years straight of ONLY having generic mario games.

[@GBDupree]

Funnily enough, you should be able to compare it to Galaxy no problem, since its essentially the same style of game. Yet somehow everyone was complaining that it was such a stray away from Galaxy's style (while also bemoaning Mario becoming too samey, of course). But for me, 3D World is essentially a new Galaxy game, except its more honest about what it is and not what it pretends to be. The Galaxy games are trying to be linear course clear levels but in 3D, yet were too scared to embrace that so they pretended to be the collectathon Marios. But because they didn't go in either direction, the Galaxy games always felt too held back and restrictive. The controls were simplified and Mario was made slow and sluggish, and the levels were straightforward, but not too tight so that it could appear to be bigger than it was, yet with not enough secrets to make use of the extra space. 3D World corrects this by making movement a key part of it (and further improving on that with the Switch release), and making levels that were honest about being straight forward paths, and instead focused on making them more about using your new movement abilities. And, yes, 3D World has some more open levels, but they did that when they wanted to make use of that openess, like the savanna plains style level, where the point is for you too search out the secrets in the big field. Of course 1 element that was missing was the gravity stuff, but Galaxy barely used that in a satisfying manner, and Odyssey more than made up for that. I think most people pretended 3D World wasn't a "true" 3D Mario simply because they saw a goal flag at the end of the course instead of a star, as though Galaxy didn't use the stars for more than just flag poles at the end of obstacle course levels anyways for 90% of the time. And the for all the times that Galaxy gave you a star from a character, 3D World gives you a green star for the same type of thing, the only difference is that a green star doesn't boot you out of the level and make you replay it upon collecting it. Simply put: 3D World is a culmination and expansion of what Galaxy tried to do in terms of gameplay, which is why its so beloved now. Its just that people didn't want to see it as it was but instead only saw it as what it wasn't so it took some time for people to appreciate it. As for Galaxy's non-gameplay stuff, like atmosphere and storytelling, well Odyssey took that and ran with it so now we have the best of both worlds, and Bowser's fury seems to be a new mixing of those 2 worlds.

[@Jdudec367]

@@GBDupree Galaxy's style of game is a hybrid of both course clear and collectathon, and it succeeded as a hybrid. 3D World's style is different as it's more full on Course Clear. 3D World really isn't a new Galaxy game, and Galaxy didn't pretend to be anything it wasn't. The Galaxy games were meant to be a hybrid of Course Clear Mario and Sandbox Mario, they didn't just try to be linear levels in 3D. The Galaxy games didn't feel held back or restrictive really. The controls weren't that simplified, and if they were made to be more simple it was to a fair degree, and it didn't really make Mario slow or sluggish. The Galaxy games did make use of it's extra space, not just with it's secrets, but also with it's enemy placement and it's more wide and open platforming. 3D World didn't correct anything, it's just a different style of game, and also it wasn't the first one like it either as 3D land was and that makes sense as 3D World is a sequel to 3D Land. Galaxy usually if not always uses it's gravity mechanic in a satisfying way, while with Odyssey the gravity mechanic obviously isn't as present. Most viewed 3D World as a true 3D Mario game, just a different kind of 3D Mario game then what came before. Galaxy didn't use it's stars like that 90% of the time, there are more times where you will need to search and find the star then what you're saying. 3D World's Green Stars are only like Galaxy's Green Stars In name and design alone, 3D World's Green Stars are a optional side collectable, while Galaxy's Green Stars while optional are more like actual main mission objectives. Galaxy 1 doesn't have a equivalent to 3D World's Green Stars but Galaxy 2 does with it's Comet Medals. Also 3D World's Green Stars are most like 3D Land's Star Coins honestly. 3D World really isn't a culmination or expansion of what Galaxy did gameplay wise, so no that's not why 3D World is so loved today. If anything Galaxy 2 was more like a expansion to Galaxy's gameplay. 3D World is more like a expansion on 3D Land's gameplay. I would say most saw it for what it is but didn't appreciate it as much as they do. Odyssey' s atmosphere while pretty good isn't as good as Galaxy's, same with it's storytelling not being quite on Galaxy's level either.

[@mistere3501]

3d mario world is a 3d version of thr 2d games.. while games like Mario 64 are more open world versions of Mario games. They're not the same

[@k-leb4671]

@@GBDupree To be honest I think the answer is a lot simpler - people were exhausted of 3D World because 3D Land and a couple of NSMB games recently came out. Now they're not exhausted of it.

[@uknownada]

@@GBDupree I wouldn't at all say 3D World is the "same style" as Galaxy. 3D World is much closer to the New SMB games to me. Galaxy feels like 64 and Sunshine, but just more linear. The fact that they're linear is sort of the only thing 3D World has in common with Galaxy, minus a few specific aesthetics. It's not even particularly linear in the same way Galaxy is, if that makes sense. 3D World is a whole bunch of levels with a single path to take. Galaxy is open, but it also leads you in a specific direction. Maybe think of it like driving a car to get somewhere. 64, Sunshine, and Odyssey is driving a car across a big empty field. Galaxy and Galaxy 2 is like taking the highway with light traffic. 3D World is like taking the subway. All three of these methods can be relaxing or fun in their own rights, but they're all pretty distinctively different. I like that 3D Mario has three different gameplay styles. It's so unique and I don't think any other franchise really has that benefit. Maybe Sonic with its Adventure and Boost style games.

[@enzoul777]

"I wanted to strangle them...but that’s part of the fun"-KingK

[@FabulousJejmaze]

...pronounced "King-Ky" 😳😳

[@parrot998]

"You can stop on a dime Mario! This is better than Brooklyn!"

[@1gnore_me.]

it warms my heart to see so many people finally realizing how great this game was.

[@Killermike2178]

Bowser's Fury is a great template/prototype for a future 3D Mario game that is way too short, sadly. It's a great 3-hour demo for the 3D World/Odyssey hybrid sequel that I will be longing for over the next 2-3 years.

[@arthurjeannin3357]

I mostly agree, but I thought the length was purrfect! Having short and tightly designed games is preferrable to bloated huge experiences sometimes. It does what it does perfectly.

[@yeetusdefeetus]

@@arthurjeannin3357 ikr! like any longer and the bowser mechanic would suck

[@superkulty64]

I like the fact that it's short as well. It's especially good if you're a speedrunner who wants to get into BF, because just doing the any% takes about an hour when you start, but when optimized, you can beat under half an hour.

[@davidbromfield8328]

But I hope that you don't snob the game if it goes a different direction and try it for what it is and not what you wanted. Like this 3D World situation here

[@dairhat]

I personally feel like the shorter length provides for better replayability. Being a short and great game instead of a long but mediocre one is for the best.

[@LeonSKennedy7777]

This is actually one of the best 3D Mario games to date. It’s pretty nuts how many novel ideas they packed into it.

[@aturchomicz821]

Kinda cringe thinking Odyseey in anywhere near as good as 3D World though, 800 Moons OMEGALUL what a joke Edit: First Time Ive ever seen an Anti Odyseey Comment get more likes even after the Replies went through, get fucked Joes Anderson Rage from 2017 lives on 😎

[@AustinPowerz-bn5ry]

Hell yeah dude I bought a Wii U after checking the reviews at the time, Mario 3D World is AAA++. I absolutely love how the merged the old and new style with the map

[@Wackaz]

It's just a shame that it's called 3D 'Insert' because it deserves a better name than just a boring, obvious and blatant title.

[@Wackaz]

@@aturchomicz821 Odyssey has fantastic world design, gameplay and soundtrack, but other than that I believe it's pretty flawed.

[@jimjam7347]

@@Wackaz I'd argue that even Odyssey's soundtrack is a bit of a letdown compared to the Galaxies.

[@AutumnReel4444]

Context for gameplay is essential. No one would play: "Normal character 3D Place"

[@smt4090]

"gameplay is essential." Now take _that_ out of context

[@skibot9974]

What exactly qualifies as context? Because 3D World technically offers context via the map screen

[@RobbyMac64]

@@skibot9974 how so?

[@WaxyLT]

You don't speak for the whole world. I found normal character 3d place to be a modern gaming masterpiece.

[@AutumnReel4444]

@@smt4090 Is this meant as a criticism?

[@coreyjones8605]

I love falling asleep to your videos man. I always watch them and then shuffle them on a night. Your voice is so soothing and not annoying like 90% of other review channels. And your reviews are amazing too. Been watching for a few years now, thanks for all the entertainment bro.

[@dairhat]

@Youtubis Accountican yeah, that always happens 🤣

[@bemiatto67]

Yeah, strange how a lot of these reviewers out here have nasally voices

[@MetaDash]

I'm glad 3D World has been getting more appreciation.

[@recentlydeleted]

"I was a teenager when I played 3D World." Me being in my late 20s when the Wii U came out: 🥲

[@bluesphere7]

R.I.P. Miiverse. I'll never forget having the final boss spoiled for me from a stamp someone posted after I played a level

[@jakoblechtenberg1204]

I’m thinking of making videos like these and I just wanna say you inspire me a lot. I love your deep analysis videos and I enjoy seeing you really delve into a seemingly shallow game and show depth that I didn’t even know existed there. Keep up the good work man :)

[@javierortiz82]

Dude I feel the same way, I just wish I had the time (and the capture card).

[@xxivletxx]

I always feel like I’m watching a high-budget documentary in a movie theatre hearing KingK’s voice soften towards the end and the music swelling and intensifying

[@twilightburial]

The introspective view of an individual analyzing themselves and their growth towards or about a specific thing is not only great video game content but it is also a fascinating sociological look into an individuals personal and emotional view towards a specific thing.

[@strawberrrylady9451]

This game gets hated on too much. So underrated man. So glad it released for the switch

[@lordroy88]

@@lol-ih1tl now a lot recognize it’s awesome games

[@blarneystone38]

I would actually rate this as my second favorite Mario game after Galaxy. The main thing I look for in Mario games, it seems, is the feeling that there's a new crazy idea coming up just around the corner, and those two do it better than any other. I think it does enough unique aesthetic stuff that it manages to have its own identity (unlike 3D Land, which always feels weirdly empty for some reason.)

[@traviscunningham7062]

Same.

[@santinostudios4254]

I agree, playing all of the 3D mario games on the switch (aside from galaxy 2) really made me realize how well 3D World and Galaxy aged compared to the other games.

[@k-leb4671]

@@santinostudios4254 Glad you think that way. A lot of people have been praising Sunshine in the past 5 years but I really don't think it's aged well. In fact I thougnt it was pretty gimped from the start. Same goes for SM64 but I have a softer spot for that one.

[@lordroy88]

3D land and Galaxy 2 lack identity

[@traviscunningham7062]

@@lordroy88 what do you mean?

[@Cute___E]

Really good review but one flaw in it that I see in MOST 3D world reviews - the controls are NOT 8-directional, they're 16. Mario can walk or run in 16 directions. Additionally, he's not limited in directions at all when in the air.

[@moshimeshowu747]

Something that I really appreciated about this review is that you acknowledged that some people like the chaotic style of multiplayer. I and a couple of friends were lucky enough to play it on the Wii U, and we would play for hours just screwing around and chucking each other off. I'm glad that you acknowledged that chaos in some games is fun.

[@TevakOwlman]

31:32 honestly mario is still pioneering massively and does several things that no other 3d platformer does (like the variety of jumps suited to specific situations + momentum based platforming, most games just give you a double jump) the 3d platformer space is still very small outside of mario due to that 7th gen die out so like with 64 it's still very much leading the way for now

[@walternorment3114]

KingK and Nerrel have quickly become my favorite channels. Your videos are great, man.

[@Whurlpuul]

Don't forget your boy summoning salt too

[@BF_Brix]

@@Whurlpuul If a kingdom could have two kings, it would be KingK and SummoningSalt.

[@NicoLetterio]

I hope they continue the "3D series", honestly 3D world is my favorite Mario game rn, it has a lot of ideas and, because of its linearity, it strikes you with one after the other in a constant manner, add to that the multiplayer and it's the perfect recipe for fun. I also love the general aesthetic it has, both its music and visuals (I know that at first glance it doesn't look particularly innovative visually, but it has some kind of shine to it that I really like).

[@mariotheundying]

I wish 3D land and 3D world were given other names, still games that are similar between the 2 but still have a game title that can have a word replaced every new "2.5D" Mario game but not be confused with a 3D Mario game in the future

[@TheBlueWizzrobe]

I've always loved 3D world. When it first came out, I had a blast. It honestly wasn't what I wanted from a new 3D Mario at all, but I was still thoroughly impressed by how much more soul this game had compared to all of the other simple course clear Mario games that had been coming out rapid fire at the time. I'm glad Odyssey came out and made 3D World more distinguishable from the crowd of unremarkable course clear Mario games of the time, though I'm still kind of hungry for a Mario game that _really_ embraces the collectathon style to the degree that I want it to. I haven't tried it myself yet, but Bowser's Fury looks like it could potentially be a step in that direction, and I definitely hope I get the chance to try it out sometime soon.

[@GBDupree]

What is it that you want out of a collectathon that Odyseey hasn't already provided?

[@TheBlueWizzrobe]

@@GBDupree I prefer collectathons with a believable world and setting that seamlessly integrates platforming challenges into itself. Odyssey did not seem to have the confidence in the ability of its worlds to give satisfying platforming challenges while remaining believable, and so it instead seemed to delegate most of the interesting platforming challenges to their own pocket-dimensions instead, which is far less interesting. Banjo-Kazooie is one of my favorite collectathons because it has believable worlds with varied theming that have plenty of satisfying platforming challenges within the context of the world itself. I was considering making a comparison to Mario 64 as well, but that game has a lot of _other_ problems that hold it back from being an ideal collectathon that are distinctly different from those in Odyssey. I think one of my favorite kingdoms in Odyssey is Lost Kingdom because it sells itself as a random, deserted island excellently while incorporating fun platforming challenges throughout its design. No vast, open, pointless areas with moons littered about haphazardly like in Sand Kingdom. On the other end of the spectrum from Sand Kingdom, we also have Bowser's Kingdom, which is too overtly a platforming gauntlet for my tastes, making it not all that much different from those dreaded pocket-dimensions, though it does get huge bonus points for having such great theming.

[@fernando98322]

I agree with the idea that you have to grow to love 3D World, and it's easier now than back then. I don't agree with your opinion around 12:00 that 3D World introduces new ideas 5 times faster than Galaxy 2. Obviously in a technicality level, the statement holds true since Galaxy 2's levels/stars can be longer, and each world/galaxy can have more than one. Even so, I think (or that's the idea I got) you believe you don't see so many new ideas in Galaxy 2, but in actuality Galaxy 2 is introducing something new every single Galaxy; in fact, it reminds me a lot to classic 2D Mario and now 3D Land and 3D World in its design. Go back through the World Map and think: "First a normal level, then Yoshi, then Cloud Mario, then gravity arrows, then a castle, then Red Yoshi, then seesaws......", something like that

[@nathankelly3582]

Me about to get it on with my girl: KingK: “You need protection”

[@waytoobiased]

bruhh but yes that is true

[@YoshionYT]

I never really liked 3D world and always thought every other 3D Mario game was 10 times better (besides 3D Land). After replaying the whole game with a friend we enjoyed it a lot more that I expected. Its still no 64 or Galaxy but it deserves more credit then I gave it.

[@PurpleFreezerPage]

It's interesting how different the things we value in games are. The best example is how you and I assess the boss battles. You don't mind the easy ones. To me, easy KILLS a boss battle. You really appreciate the aesthetics and theming of the boss battles - I'm still pissed about the waiting around and lack of difficulty to go "hey this looks cool".

[@k-leb4671]

Easy boss battles waste the effort put into the aesthetics and programming. I'd love to appreciate such and such boss but I'm afraid it's too easy for me to beat it in 30 seconds, and also I don't like waiting around.

[@shawnthetaco10]

I took a game design class my last semester of college, and we constantly kept coming back to 3D world when it comes to masterfully teaching your player how to play your game without spelling it out for them. The floor switch level was an example my professor loved brining up in these discussions. The way it gives you the switches in a safe environment with a floor under you to start off then slowly escalates the challenge over time is a master class of design. The fact that you catch onto this and expand on it with the green star challenges in this video is why I love this channel so much. It really is like watching small game design lectures and I love it

[@asbestosman1224]

I hope this style of mario game continues on, while I like the more explorative direction as well, I want to see them do both, same thing with zelda. 3D World offers tight levels with great design and odyssey offers creative worlds with awesome exploration, people often say that they prefer one or the other but I love both and hope they can make both.

[@lordroy88]

Super Mario 3D World is my favorite platformer of all time. The music is jazzy and memorable, the bosses fresh and the levels are incredibly diverse. The multiplayer is one of the best parts too.

[@realkingofantarctica]

I love how in the past year or so everyone has started to appreciate 3D World more and more. Heck, even I've eased up on it as time has gone on.

[@Sponsie1000]

lt's kinda like WindWaker in that regard,, when it first released it seemed like something people didnt think they wanted and went in expecting/wanting to dislike it. But that kind of negative hype usually declines given a few years l guess, and especially if they rerelease a version with some quality of life improvements and a unique-in-a-cool-way bonus mode

[@linkthepig4219]

@@Sponsie1000 Eh, didn't people almost straight away love WW when it came out? Unlike this game?

[@Sponsie1000]

​ @Pighog Pig No, believe it or not. At the time people were wow'ed by OoT and the darker/mature tone of MM, and then in a gamecube tech demo nintendo showed another dark/TP'esque scene of how a zelda game could potentially look on the upcoming gamecube and people went absolutely nuts over that... only to find out a while later that the new big zelda game on the new big system was gonna be a very childish looking game. People got off on the wrong foot around the launch of WW, and it wasnt til like 5~10 years later that general consensus shifted towards WW actually being cool, and l think the release of TP helped with that, for the people who were initially disappointed by the lack of mature'ness in WW got their itch scratched by TP,, kinda like how people who were initally disappointed by the lack of world-exploration got their itch scratched by Odessey, and in both cases l think the later game allowed the earlier ''outlier'' to be seen in a more positive light. (Sorry, this turned out to be a bit of a rant, but l you can google "WindWaker initial reaction" to learn more if you're interested :] )

[@linkthepig4219]

@@Sponsie1000 Thanks for this I actually learnt something lol.

[@nikkoa.3639]

Yeah. Personally, I've just been waiting for this game to get released on the switch so I can finally play it. It just looks so fun

[@denisruskin348]

Truly one of the best platform games. It may lack the innovation of Galaxy or Odyssey but it is an incredibly consistent ride from start to finish and no level truly feels like a ctrl c/ctrl v scenario. Also the endgame content might be the best in a Mario game. 9.5/10

[@traviscunningham7062]

Since Mario Galaxy.

[@Treetops27]

What did odyssey innovate on?

[@YoshisIslandFan6410]

@@Treetops27 cappy

[@Treetops27]

@@YoshisIslandFan6410 so just ratchet's wrench in hat form?

[@redbones6046]

"From one King to another, you gotta respect Royalty" Class💯

[@Stevoisiak]

17:39 "Toad might as well be Sonic the Hedgehog" I don't know why that made me laugh so much.

[@waytoobiased]

he is blue, white, and beige hmmm

[@SupaCLUCK]

This game is so underrated for being a Mario game

[@AustinPowerz-bn5ry]

It's insanely good.

[@blarneystone38]

Too many great games for the Wii U were overlooked because the console failed so hard. I'm glad that the Switch is giving people a chance to re-evaluate them a bit.

[@jimjam7347]

@@blarneystone38 Tropical Freeze and Treasure Tracker have gotten a lot more love since they got ported.

[@glungusgongus]

@@jimjam7347 Tropical Freeze did not sell well sadly.

[@1253zman]

Well you know it's like he said in the video. 3d world was a victim of not being the big sandbox Mario and whether people accepted it or not that did play a part of why it had the reception it did.

[@MMLCommentaries]

Wow Dan, this and your Galaxy 2 video were both exceptionally-written and brought up a lot of things I didn't fully consider. Back in the days when I was more of a fighter and debater with my "hardcore gamer opinions" or whatever I know our views on 3D Mario differed a lot but I found myself rethinking how I view the series (and Galaxy 2 in particular) and agreeing with most of your points here. Ultimately, like you said, our views on these things are ever-changing and that fact is probably one of the coolest things about entertainment in general and video games in particular.l

[@minimalchill]

Great video brother! I love this Learning To Love series as I actively do the same thing in my personal life with multiple games. Good stuff man. Discovering how our own evolution can flip our perspectives on things we once felt certain of is an aspect of life that I too deeply appreciate.

[@lagspike7763]

By itself, the introduction to World Bowser makes this a sick game. The screen goes dark, you're in a clear pipe, you see the silhouettes of ... a fucking Ferris wheel? What the hell has Bowser been doing this whole time. Then: LIGHTS CAMERA ACTION Music starts actually bumping and you're in the most batshit insane world design basically any mario game has. I don't think there's much in the series that tops "personal carnival in the sky" if I'm being completely 100 with you.

[@eastkoastgames1553]

It’s amazing the light games can be cast in in society once they shed their Wii U skin

[@bageljesus3788]

Ain’t that some shit?

[@VulturePilot]

I mean, it’s not the games’ fault Nintendo didn’t know how to market the console. The console itself was great it’s a proto switch with a more comfortable hand held controller and N64, DS, GBA, NES, SNES and Wii Virtual Console which the switch can’t compete with

[@bageljesus3788]

@@VulturePilot the fact that Nintendo even now can’t let go of the wii’s success is such a boner killer :(

[@fartyuio]

@@bageljesus3788 Goodbye boner, hello Wii worship!

[@eastkoastgames1553]

@@VulturePilot oh I loved my Wii U. I just find it interesting from a societal perspective how simply porting it to a better received console has changed the consensus

[@MajoraZ]

Given the discussion about "Sandbox" vs "Course Clear" Mario titles in this video, you might find it interesting that I I wouldn't actually call most levels in 64 and Oddessy to be designed with a sandbox philosophy, and that I LIKE the missions in 64 and Sunshine being, well, split into discrete missions. What I mean by the former is that while yes, the levels in 64, Sunshine, and Oddessy are all open relative to the 2d games, most are still designed with a clear pathway in mind and most of the meaningful content on that level is aligned across that pathway. Take Bomb-Omb Battlefield. Yes, there are enemies and coins and other things outside of the main path, but there's not much do really do in those locations and all the main platforming is on that pathway. Compare that to Bianco hills in Sunshine, supeficially laid out similar to Bomb-omb battlfield with a path that winds through the level and then spirals up a vertical structure, but Bianco is filled with platforming elements and challenges across the whole level, with a villages with ascendable buildings to the left of the path, a park to the right with a bunch of tres, a large lake with a series of tightropes ahead of that, and a wall connecting the two, allowing for seamless platforming pathing between each area. Gelato Beach, Ricco Harbor, PInna Park, and Pinanata Village are the same. 64 has no levels like this, whereas Oddessy really only has New Donk City (granted, every level in Oddessy does have stuff to do all across the layout, but in terms of how the platforming is distributed, only New Donky City truly has a freeform approach where it's not limited to overt predesigned pathing, often with specific captures required for traversal across those pathways). Despite me saying Sunshine is the only game with a lot of "true sandbox" levels, I actually enjoy them being in discrete levels with linear objectives. Something that I didn't like too much in Sunshine is how that's not the case, where the level's layout and thematics don't change beyond the basic plot in eahc, and you can't "replay" the levels in the earlier states that were present. I find muych more enjoyment in being able to go back and replay a specific mission I can try to get a better time or a goal in and revisist how it was laid out differently.

[@k-leb4671]

Sunshine may have a bunch of platforming elements spread throughout the stages, but too bad they mean nothing besides getting blue coins (which I hate) and completing 100 coin missions (which I also hate, especially in Sunshine). Each shine is its own separate thing, with there being very few moments of multiple shines existing in the same instance of a level, and each mission must be completed in a certain order. It doesn't have the design of SM64 where many stars are placed in different corners of the stage in the same instance of that stage and you can collect most of them in any order.

[@kingjonny394]

This is actually my favourite 3d mario, I've enjoyed them all but I just prefer this style most of the time

[@paulcurran3661]

I have played through this game multiple times with each of my kids on multiplayer, on WiiU and Switch. It is my favourite 3D Mario next to the Galaxy games.

[@Cinnacal]

I like the sneaky mechanical rhythm reference you had there 👀

[@conc0n]

it's so weird seeing footage of Calkwalk Flip and not hearing someone talking about its "excellence in game design" because some flippers are above ground and later in the level they're above a death pit 😱😱 great video :)

[@aturchomicz821]

I mean that good game design though

[@k-leb4671]

In hindsight it kinda feels patronizing to mention the design is excellent because some flippers are above ground and later on are above a death pit, I guess because it seems pretty obvious.

[@dog8438]

I began I really dislike "course clear" Mario games and I still do, but this game is an exception. This is a really solid take on that concept and each level is genuinely creative

[@cardboard-boxgames9308]

I’m glad you’ve come around to this game, it’s probably my favourite mario game and I love seeing it getting the kudos it deserves.

[@GeddyRC]

Love that you included Klonoa 2 on your 2D platformers, what a great game that was. Not a single person I've talked to has even heard of that series. I sure hope Namco revives the franchise at some point.

[@grfrjiglstan]

I think the game recognizes that Boom Boom and Pom Pom are lame. Once apiece, they appear to be the world boss, but then you get into a clear pipe and find the real boss - Hisstocrat and Bossblob, two of the coolest new guys.

[@tomio8072]

As Heraclitus once said, no man plays the same video game twice, for the video game has changed, and so has the man. Sort of works

[@IsaixLD7]

It's funny how people are starting to appreciate 3D World more now that's it's on Switch. Some people were harsh with the game back on the Wii U, but now they appreciate what Nintendo were going for.

[@mariokartwii6663]

definitely in my top ten 3d mario games

[@Roflcrabs]

Uhh so Mario 64, Sunshine, Galaxy, Galaxy 2, 3D Land and Odyssey are also in your top 10 favourite 3D Mario games as well I'm guessing?

[@jimjam7347]

@@Roflcrabs That's the joke.

[@mariokartwii6663]

@@Roflcrabs whoa how did you know???

[@linkthepig4219]

These 3 replies are glorious.

[@mariokartwii6663]

@@linkthepig4219 so are you :)

[@bradshacalypse]

I couldn't agree more with your idea of story in video games as context for WHY you're doing what you're doing in the game and not merely the shoehorning in of cutscenes, dialogue, and other storytelling vehicles from other mediums. That's what I've always considered "story" in games, and for me, if that's not at least mildly interesting, I simply cannot get sucked into a game, fun though it may be. One reason why I think a lot of people dismiss "story" in video games is that, unlike other mediums of artistic expression (writing, illustration, film, sequential art, etc.), video games are by far the most complex; so much so that the medium itself can be entertaining and engaging in its own right. Some games have such strong, engaging mechanics that they don't really need some aesthetic or narrative propping them up any; you could replace all the assets with color-coded blocks and it'd still be fun. Others absolutely require a narrative, such as RPGs; take away the story, you take away the point of playing entirely. Then there are those that work best with some blend of the two. If a game's mechanics aren't interesting enough on their own, then aesthetics/narrative/context needs to step up, and vice versa; otherwise a game risks lacking that hook that keeps you playing.

[@dairhat]

"Learning to love Hotel Mario"

[@traviscunningham7062]

All toasters toast toast!

[@KassandraQuiseng]

Even though I’m 22, this is my first Mario game and I’ve had so much fun with it. I’ve only played it in multiplayer with my brother and every time we go wild with laughter. I’m not sure what it’s like to play it alone, but it’s strength is definitely in co-op.

[@garymcginnis8511]

This is actually the only 3d mario I find perfect as far as gameplay. Its so fun and tight and replayable. The only negative is a lack of broad theming, but i think the massive variety balances that out. Its my fave!

[@thattimestampguy]

Lack of ambition 1:36 But wait 2:09 Gameplay 6:18 Super Mario Odyssey 8:59 Good Pacing

[@cannonballking7]

Another masterpiece of a review/ analysis. Whenever one of your videos comes out, it feels like the world tops for a moment, truely amazing. Keep up the good work and have a nice day.

[@TheJazzMan333]

28:39 It's worth noting that the way this scene cuts (i.e. red zigzag lines) is oddly reminiscent to how Sonic cuts from one scene to another.

[@k-leb4671]

3D World stole from Sonic so Sonic stole from Mario with Lost World. Except Lost World sucks in comparison...

[@traviscunningham7062]

@@k-leb4671 I actually liked Lost World, but it can’t compare to both Mario Galaxy games and 3D World.

[@gabrielledebourg2487]

This is not just a wonderful analysis, but it so closely mirrors my own opinions on 3D World. My biggest draw in Mario has always been the imagination they present to me. For me, it's never just been about the platforming or gameplay, but how Mario manages to marry its simple and solid core gameplay with creative ideas and imaginary filled worlds. My favorites have therefore always been the games that lean more into creating that sense of wonder: I'm a much bigger fan of Galaxy 1 over 2 for that reason. And when I played 3D World, I felt that while it was fun, it really "left me". It never had that impact like 64 had on me. It just felt… basic. But now, with the re-release on the Switch (and trust me, the speed boost makes the game WAY better), the reevaluation of 3D World made me rediscover it. With the hindsight of Odyssey, that basically gave me everything I love in a Mario game, I could appreciate 3D World for what it was, instead of disliking it for what it wasn't. Then you really start to appreciate how TIGHT of a game this is. It made me realize that the wonder and creativity from this game didn't come from the worlds, but from the levels and the level concepts themselves.

[@alfo2804]

I really love 3D World, and I always have, but reading your comment makes me wonder why Nintendo thought it was impossible to have everything. I understand that gameplay, above all else, was the focus here, but would it have genuinely harmed the game if it had some more robust visual design/worldbuilding? I'm not personally bothered by it when it comes to Mario, but I know it means a lot to some people when the game they are playing makes an effort to integrate the design and gameplay mechanics in to the setting and story. At times, this game seems like it wants to make you feel like you're in a real world, exploring a defined setting, but at most other times it just throws a level where you're riding an aquatic dinosaur across floating pieces of sand above a giant desert into the theme park circus world. Most levels just feel like you've been teleported in to a video game level that has little relation to the theme of the world you're in or the theme of the previous level you played. It's strange that 3D World almost completely fails to understand the idea of exploring a defined world that somewhat justifies each level - especially when even games like New Super Mario Bros U manage to excel at doing so.

[@cubedmelons876]

I think Nintendo’s problem is that they spread their resources too thin with trying to put out 3D World along with 3 other Mario games at the time. 3D Land, NSMB2, and NSMBU dragged down 3D world, both by stealing development time from it, and by giving the audience course-clear Mario fatigue before it even came out.

[@BF_Brix]

I really love your analysis videos, man. You have a real talent for this, and your soothing voice definitely helps. You're one of several channels that slowly influence me to want to start making videos again, and take them seriously too. I anxiously await your Bowser's Fury video :)

[@six_buck_dlc]

i love when people start to understand the depth in my favorite games. Mario Jazz needs more fucking respect and people hate it just because the Wii U cant compare to the Switch or Xbox 360 instead of appreciating the cool test direction Nintendo took. Sure it might've failed, but at least respect them for giving it a shot

[@aisadal2521]

Glad I found this in my recommended section on KZbin TV while I was folding laundry 😊

[@Emeraldiouss]

"Learning to Love Super Mario 3D World", aka "playing the game".

[@GrumpySylveon]

Mom, the professional comic sans man is back

[@GmanTheTank]

My 2 year old and I play the original Wii U version all the time - he loves Mario.

[@ruolbu]

While the story flair of each mario game is a big part of how I remember it, I really don't think it matters much for how fun the game is while I play it. I enjoyed Sunshine due to the cool jump mechanics and fludd not because of the island. I enjoyed Galaxy 1 & 2 because of the cool gravity things and the jump spin, not because of the space theme (Rosalina and her fairy tales are among the best things of the entire franchise though, not gonna lie here). I enjoyed Odyssey because of Cappy and my mind becoming addicted to Moons just like Mad Miyamoto had planned all along but not the road trip and wedding theme. The only game that really got me because of the setting was Mario World. Because every bit of that game, the overworld, the map screen, the subworlds, the individual levels, they all felt like they were actually connected like a real place. Later games attempted to evoke the same feeling but only got there on a superficial level.

[@thebandanadee8265]

As someone who's first time playing through 3D World is with one extra person, I can confirm that even with +1 person, Chain Link Charge is fucking CHAOS and HELL.

[@mspeter97]

I'm really wondering what you think of Bowser's Fury now

[@waytoobiased]

same

[@rayquaza5059]

Having Odyssey come out, and then having 3D World + Bowser’s Fury come out on Switch rather than just 3D World on Wii U, people are going back and really appreciating it

[@SuperSpyKindaGuy]

Thank you for another awesome video, and I say this with all due respect, but your audio settings have never had my insomnia more on the ropes. Every video adds to the tapestry of chill that you have created with your work.

[@tonystarrk4859]

Played all 3d Marios back to back recently, I enjoyed the course clear linear style of design like Galaxy 1 and 2 and 3d World much more than the open ones. And yeah, the story of Odyssey was cute but it wasn't important to the game (the insane movement and jumps that's possible via your hat are what makes it great, but unfortunately it rarely pushes the mechanics to the limit, the player basically has to make their own challenge). Mario games need minimal context . Also 2-player 3D World was some of the best co-op gameplay I've had in years (especially the final world).

[@davide4162]

Cannot believe this game came out 8 years ago, but I’m so happy it’s getting the respect it deserves finally!!

[@Spectacles_]

3D World and NSMBWii and U's mulitplayer is a very special kind of multiplayer I like to call, "Keep Talking And Nobody Falls Of Into A Bottomless Pit" multiplayer, that at the time was so panned for being so chaotic. It's about the bizarrely effective fun of trying to get through these intricately designed stages with a bunch of other friends stumbling around, and exploiting your numbers to break it apart or just be the jerk who always messes with everyone. _That_ is what I feel sets 3D World apart from the other 3D Super Marios, that and also the level design is just very solid all around.

[@VonSnuggles1412]

I legitimately just bought 3d world like an hour ago, and i just saw this. I love the game (I've always liked collect a thon's in Mario but i never finished them cuz i got bored, and i like nsmb, but it feels real basic and mundane. Unlike those games, this one manages to keep my attention so far). I've always been more of a zelda guy, and this is the first non zelda game, i legitimately want to finish

[@PankaikeAussieShep]

i used to play this game on the wii u after school with my best friend, those were some of the best times we ever had. we would constantly throw each other off of the side and work with zero powerups. it was awesome.

[@Fizzy01010]

Pretty much summed up my exact journey with this game, it's so much easier to really appreciate it for what it is now

[@skyhighlander6447]

Always glad when somebody else values story in mario games. It’s a big part of why I loved galaxy and odyssey, and honestly a big part in many of my favorite games. I like Sunshine more than other, in my opinion better mario games purely for its story, charm and atmosphere. Story in games, even when they don’t technically *need* one, always has the potential to make the game way more special.

[@thomasimmich4218]

I could understand why someone wouldn’t like the game, but I gotta say since the switch port release every few days a few of my friends will just message with a Mario gif and we know it’s time to clear some 3d world courses. Doesn’t even matter which save file we use we just play whatever levels and throw each other off. It’s madness but fun!

[@zach--m]

Love that you came around on this one... Sucks that it took Oddessey for you to realize it.... It's literally basic 2d mario excellence in 3d: tons of gimmicks expanded throughout the level, expounded further with green stars and move on... It was always there

[@NeufAtora]

You should upload just the audio files to a platform. Your voice is so calming and I don't even need the visuals to listen to this

[@philiphunt-bull5817]

I literally couldn't comprehend the title, because I thought everyone knew this game is a masterpiece.

[@willdavey6570]

Would we have Oddeyesey, this game shows itself for the great game it is. A 2D game in 3D, with fantastic design and soundtrack

[@Unkown-il9oz]

*Odyssey

[@dr.c2195]

17:07 You forgot Super Mario 64 DS. It is an amazing remake of one of the most beloved (and probably overrated) games, yet surprisingly few people seem to know about it.

[@VanHelvet]

The general disdain for 3D World is built entirely on what the game isn't, and not what it is. While I perfectly understand and respect such a perspective, meta-level expectations gets in the way of truly judging a game by its actual merits. I'm glad more people are coming around to this great game with the advent of the Switch port.

[@beterbomen]

I think there's a lot of courage these days in being willing to admit that you've changed your mind. For some reason, it's courageous to do that these days.

[@JoryKorvid]

It isn't when it's video games omg grow up

[@beterbomen]

@@JoryKorvid What are you even doing here?

[@mateorodriguez2300]

“I can control these with my hands??” LMAOO that is GOLDEN

[@coolguychecker7329]

I loved Odyssey but honestly I completely forgot its premise lol. It's the last thing that would come to mind for me for that game. The only narrative moment I remember is the final section with Bowser, mainly because it's a narrative development expressed entirely through the game's central mechanic.

[@PleasantLeech]

Did you really say story matters when referring to Mario Odyssey? Oh man . . . I guess we have different definitions of story.

[@kingnewcomer2029]

Yeah, I love Super Mario 3D World too! ^^ It's one of my favorite games on the Wii U, and I'm really glad to see it port over on the Switch along with a brand new adventure mode! I think of all the modern Super Mario platformers that reuse the classic formula, 3D World does it the best! I'm happy that Peach is finally a playable character once again in the main series for the first time in a very long time, and would love to see her playable again! Although there are a few tweaks added in the Switch port that I'm not fond of, I think all the new improvements greatly outweigh the setbacks, and is definitely the way to play the game today! Can't wait for your inevitable review on Bowser's Fury/Fury World!

[@skydragoonslifer5798]

Mario multiplayer- where the game turns from Super Mario 3D World to Mario Party.

[@BogusLettuce]

I've loved it when it first came out back in 2013 on wii u. You guys been sleeping on it this whole time.

[@ShadianVise]

It has confused me for a long time how people lumped this game in with the 3D collectathons (64, Sunshine Galaxy 1+2, Odyssey). Even KZbin legends like matthewmatosis did this. Why? It seemed so clear to me that the categories of Mario platformers were collectathon and course clear, and 3D World was so very much course clear. It shares more DNA with NSMB games than collectathons, albeit executing the concept much better. People who were disappointed with 3D World seem to frequently say that it doesn't live up to 64 or Galaxy, when it didn't even appear to be trying to do that. Instead, it's the best course clear Mario game since World.

[@user-mj6zg8hh9h]

I also used to think that 3d world was a plain game. Now i think it rivals 64 and Sunshine.

[@weregretohio7728]

I just never could get into the New series and all of the other games around this time. Can't even keep the titles straight. Even if it was well-made... it never captured my attention. Spent my time mostly wishing for another 3D one. Of course, they finally make it after I quit consoles and barely follow the industry anymore.

[@Dragon_Ryder]

I always felt 3D World was underappreciated and didn’t have the life it deserved on WiiU. It’s bursting with so many wonderful ideas and challenges for seasoned players. It was stuck on a failing console, and I was disappointed when I thought it wouldn’t see the recognition it deserved, especially since I had so much fun with it. But then it found a whole new life on the Switch, and I find it heartwarming that more people can enjoy it as much as I did. And to me, Bowser’s Fury was a nice cherry on top of an already-amazing package. Excellent video, and I’m glad to see you found enjoyment in 3D World as well.

[@jimjam7347]

I appreciate you driving the point home that Mario games are better when they have some sort of story attached to them. I see far too many people dismiss this aspect of Galaxy when comparing both of the Galaxy games. As Joseph Anderson said, "Gameplay is king, but story is queen and her throne is right next to his." They're both important, even in a Mario game.

[@maverickREAL]

Imagine having to learn to love this pure masterpiece

[@aldusric]

Yeah this egocentric guy is what I hate from premature and biased game reviews. Still Mario games are about fun and level design. Fortunately Japanese Nintendo Guys make games for love and excellency.