New Super Luigi U vs Super Mario 3D World
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Step into the shoes of Luigi in his very first starring role in a platform adventure, set within the world of New Super Luigi U. With Mario nowhere to be found, you must navigate over 80 brand-new, fast-paced courses where every level challenges you with a strict 100-second timer and Luigi's distinct physics, featuring high jumps and unique slides. Enjoy high replayability as you master each demanding course alone or with up to five players, including the invincible newcomer Nabbit. Whether playing via the downloadable expansion or the standalone physical release, share your triumphs with the community and help Luigi finally save Princess Peach's captured castle!
Super Mario 3D World is a 3D platformer action game for the Wii U that follows Mario, Luigi, Peach, and Toad as they rescue the Sprixie Princess from Bowser. Building on the classic 3D level-design conventions of its predecessor, the game challenges players to navigate linear levels within a time limit to reach the Goal Pole. Players can choose from multiple characters with unique playstyles and utilize new power-ups like the Cat suit to climb walls and defeat enemies. It introduces simultaneous four-player cooperative multiplayer to a 3D Mario title alongside intuitive Wii U GamePad touch and microphone features.
- Over 80 challenging new courses
- Unique physics make Luigi distinct to control
- Includes the invincible Nabbit for accessible play
- Supports up to five players in cooperative multiplayer
- First 3D Mario game with simultaneous four-player co-op
- Diverse character roster with unique playstyles
- Fun and versatile Cat power-up mechanics
- Engaging utilization of Wii U GamePad features
- Stricter 100-second time limit can feel rushed
- Requires ownership of New Super Mario Bros. U if bought as DLC
- Level layouts recycle the visual aesthetic of the base game
- Multiplayer is local only without online matchmaking built in
- Linear level design may limit open-world exploration
- Wii U exclusivity restricts accessibility on modern systems
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to New Super Luigi U
View all →Team up with friends in this cooperative 3D platforming adventure on the Wii U.
Alternatives to Super Mario 3D World
View all →
Join Mario in a classic 2.5D side-scrolling platform adventure to rescue Princess Peach.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataNew Super Luigi U offers fast‑paced, time‑pressured platforming with up to five players, while Super Mario 3D World delivers richer 3D co‑op with higher critical acclaim but costs more.
Key differences
- •Luigi U is a DLC‑style add‑on that requires New Super Mario Bros. U; Mario 3D World is a standalone title.
- •Mario 3D World supports simultaneous four‑player co‑op in a 3D space; Luigi U supports up to five players but only in 2D courses.
- •Critic scores differ sharply: 71/100 for Luigi U vs 94/100 for Mario 3D World.
- •Price gap: $19.99 for Luigi U versus $59.99 for Mario 3D World.
- •Luigi U enforces a strict 100‑second limit on every course; Mario 3D World uses more relaxed level timers.
Gameplay & fun factor
Mario 3D World’s varied characters, Cat power‑up and 3D level design earned a 94 critic score, indicating higher fun.
Platform availability
Both are Wii U‑only; however Luigi U is DLC for an existing game, requiring ownership of New Super Mario Bros. U.
Price & value
Luigi U costs $19.99 versus $59.99 for Mario 3D World, offering lower upfront cost.
Multiplayer / co‑op
Luigi U allows up to five players simultaneously, exceeding Mario 3D World’s four‑player limit.
Content & replayability
Mario 3D World provides a full campaign with diverse worlds; Luigi U adds 80 courses but reuses base‑game aesthetics.
Difficulty & accessibility
Luigi U includes invincible Nabbit for beginners and a clear 100‑second challenge, making it more beginner‑friendly.
Graphics & performance
Both run on Wii U hardware; no differing specifications are provided.
Choose New Super Luigi U if…
Players who want cheap, fast‑paced 2D platforming with large multiplayer groups and beginner‑friendly options.
Choose Super Mario 3D World if…
Players seeking a polished, critically acclaimed 3D co‑op experience with richer content and character variety.
Common questions
Do I need another game to play New Super Luigi U?
Yes, it requires ownership of New Super Mario Bros. U if purchased as DLC.
Can I play Super Mario 3D World online with friends?
No, multiplayer is local only; there is no online matchmaking.
Which game offers more players at once?
New Super Luigi U supports up to five players simultaneously, while Super Mario 3D World supports four.