Super Mario Maker News
August2015
News Nintendo UK Running Another Super Mario Maker Twitch Stream Today
Tune in
Nintendo UK has already held a Twitch stream devoted to the forthcoming Wii U title Super Mario Maker, and it has announced today that a second live-stream will be happening. As you might assume, it's due to take place on the company's Twitch channel at 5PM UK time, and will give you the chance to see some new user-created courses in...
Video Japanese TV Commercials For Super Mario Maker Take The Reserved Approach
Low on CGI, high on charm
The launch of Super Mario Maker is just around the corner, and Nintendo is giving the game one final push in Japan with a raft of new TV commercials. Compared to the CGI-heavy nature of the US ads, these are a little more reserved and showcase one man and his quest to create the most entertaining Super Mario level...
News Nintendo of America Opts for 'Real World' Super Mario Maker TV Campaign
"Wanna play?"
Nintendo's marketing in North America has been interesting in the 3DS and Wii U era, as notable TV campaigns have often blended CG effects with real world actors - the latter are normally young teenagers to pitch to the family demographic. It's been a recurring formula and, to be fair to Nintendo of America, a lot of these trailers...
Video Super Mario Maker Contains Secret Fly Swatting Mini Game
Mario Paint style
Not content with being what is arguably the ultimate 2D Mario experience, Super Mario Maker is also host to some neat little features burrowed away behind walls of code. One that caught our eye as we were playing was that shifting a block can sometimes reveal three flies from underneath it. Swatting these flies takes you away from...
News Join Nintendo UK As They Play The First Hour Of Super Mario Maker On Twitch
5PM UK time today!
In our recent Super Mario Maker preview we said it "feels like a Nintendo game with no shortcuts or rushed compromises, and has evidently been a project carefully nurtured and prioritised. From the substantial functionality to the beautiful re-creation of 8- and 16-Bit Mario templates in HD, this really is shaping up to be the...
Preview Rekindling Platforming Passion in Super Mario Maker
It's about the playing as well as the creating
Super Mario Maker is now rather close, and there's every chance that the Wii U exclusive will be regarded as a key turning point for 2D Mario gaming in years to come. Having spent some time with the final build, it's clear to us that Nintendo's finest have been truly devoting themselves to this most...
News Rejoice, There's A Tingle Costume In Super Mario Maker
That's our year made, then
Love him or hate him, Tingle is making his way to Super Mario Maker - in costume form, at least. Arguably one of the oddest characters Nintendo has ever made, Tingle started life in the Zelda series but has since starred in his own games as well. The news of him appearing in Super Mario Maker began life as a rumour, with...
Video Check Out the Diversity of the Question Block in Super Mario Maker With This Quirky Trailer
Level creation meets game show
Those following it closely will already know a great deal about Super Mario Maker, which is making its way to Wii U on 11th September. Beyond its various features, however, is a huge helping of character and quirky presentation. The latest video shared by Nintendo's Japanese YouTube channel highlights that nicely,...
Mario Memories The Creative Joy of Childhood and Super Mario Maker as a Modern-Day Roll of Paper
Mario Maker is for all the kids who will look back 20 years from now
In this series of 30 daily articles celebrating the upcoming 30th Anniversary of Super Mario, various members of the Nintendo Life extended family will share their memories and thoughts on the iconic franchise. Next up is Nintendo Life veteran and Noiseless Chatter master Philip J...
News Super Mario Maker's eShop Pre-Load is Live in North America
Tough luck, Europe
Super Mario Maker may, for many, fall into the 'must get a physical copy' category. Even download aficionados must be contemplating one of the physical retail options, either with the amiibo or a standard edition that - nevertheless - comes with a lovely 'design ideas' booklet. It's an Anniversary, live a little. For those that...
News Nintendo's Awesome Super Mario Maker Overview Announces New Features
SFX and music creation! Gradual item unlocks! 50+ amiibo supported!
Super Mario Maker is now less than a month away, and Nintendo's released a rather cool overview video that shows it off and reveals some key new details. There are some standout announcements - notably, it'll be possible to create and use your own sound effects in levels (along...
"That's our real secret sauce"
The Wii U may not have gained the same commercial success as the original Wii, but it terms of innovation it arguably does more than its next-gen rivals, thanks largely to the potential of its GamePad controller. That's certainly the opinion of Nintendo of America's Executive VP of Sales Scott Moffitt, who has been...
Video Nintendo Minute Shows Off The Best Facebook Super Mario Maker Hackathon Levels
Including the winner, 'Ship Love'
Not too long ago Nintendo headed to Facebook's headquarters for a Super Mario Maker Hackathon, in which employees of the company tackled the game to try and create their own levels. The winner, 'Ship Love', will be included with the final game when it's released on 11th September. Nintendo Minute's latest video...
News Nintendo Scoops Three Gamescom Awards
Mario and Legend of Zelda do the trick
Gamescom is now entering the chaotic weekend days, in which a dizzying number of gamers descend on Cologne. Though the event isn't over, a week of industry events has nevertheless culminated in the official Gamescom awards; Nintendo of Europe, which is out in force at the expo, has a few wins to celebrate...
News Rayman’s Creator Is Designing One Of The 60 Levels In Super Mario Maker
As if we weren’t already excited enough
Following reports last month Super Mario Maker would include 100 pre-made courses, the official UK game site was updated earlier this week to read the upcoming Wii U title will feature "dozens of sample courses" to help inspire players to create their own levels. The latest news surfacing via Nintendo of...
Coming to shopping centre near you
Nintendo UK has confirmed the dates and locations of its 2015 Summer Tour, where it will show off its latest games to hordes of shoppers up and down the country. The tour kicks off on 12th August and runs until 13th September. Forthcoming titles like Super Mario Makerand Mario Tennis: Ultra Smash will rub...
News Nintendo Confirms September amiibo Release Details for North America
Triple-pack confirmed, Mii Fighters now due in triple pack in November
New waves of amiibo are still hot news for Nintendo gamers, and North American fans now have information on the next batch of figures heading to the region in September; in addition we have confirmation of a new triple pack, in addition to another that was recently leaked. The...
July2015
Gallery Facebook and Nintendo’s Super Mario Maker Hackathon Has Chosen Its Winner
Do you Like this tie-in?
Not too long ago Nintendo announced a promotional partnership with Facebook for Super Mario Maker. Beyond the PR-friendly Hackathon - in which Facebook employees designed levels, with the winner to be included in the game - it's a smart move, as potential marketing deals and promotion with Facebook will certainly be useful...
Video This Japanese Super Mario Maker Overview Is Surprisingly Well-Constructed
Game details and amiibo footage, it's all here
It's not long until Super Mario Maker graces Wii U systems all over the world, and our own personal interest surrounding this intriguing DIY title grows with each snippet of fresh news. Today's interesting titbit is a new video from Nintendo of Japan which shows off the game's mechanics in a...
Video This Trailer For Super Mario Maker Is Rather Nostalgic
Remember your favourite Mario moments in new ways
Since the initial reveal of Super Mario Maker, Nintendo has been hard at work promoting the Wii U title's upcoming release. We've already seen the game in action on a competitive level at this year's Nintendo World Championships, held during E3, and just recently, the Kyoto-based company announced it...
News Mattel Is Releasing Mario Themed Hot Wheels Racers
Lead the way
As of late, Nintendo has been collaborating with a wide variety of companies to help increase its brand exposure. Just last week, for example, it announced a special partnership with social media giant, Facebook, to promote the upcoming Wii U title, Super Mario Maker. This week, news has surfaced via Brazillian toy site T-Hunted, that...
News Nintendo is Partnering With Facebook for Super Mario Maker's Launch
...Now it's been officially announced
Update: Now Nintendo of America has issued a press release (which popped up in our inbox minutes after original publication), explaining how a 'Hackathon' at Facebook will determine the stage that'll be included in the game. Hackathon events are a unique element of the Facebook company culture, and an...
Talking Point Assessing the Odds of Super Mario Maker Making a Commercial Splash This September
Anniversary-busting August may have been better
We're still waiting for a North American announcement - which we hope is just a matter of time - but we were rather pleased about confirmation today of a Super Mario Maker Wii U hardware bundle. It's coming to Europe on the same day as the game (a simple but important requirement) and certainly...
News Nintendo Announces Super Mario Maker Wii U Hardware Bundle
PDF of artbook coming with eShop version, too
Update: Nintendo UK has now confirmed that the Super Mario Maker hardback artbook will not also be sold separately on the official UK store, as stated in its original press release. It will only be available in the bundles outlined below and as a PDF with eShop purchases of the game. Original Article:...
Talking Point Competitive Gaming With Super Smash Bros. and More Can Be Vital for Nintendo
New audiences and more headlines
It's been Evo weekend in Las Vegas, arguably the most notable fighting game tournament in the world. Super Smash Bros. Melee and the Wii U entry are two of the biggest titles of the event, with recognisable competitors and a lot of press coverage revolving around the series. If Masahiro Sakurai takes personal...
News Nintendo Official UK Store Throws in a Neat T-Shirt With Super Mario Maker Pre-Orders
You can choose yellow, yellow, or yellow
Super Mario Maker pre-orders have been available in the UK for a short while, but the Nintendo Official UK Store has taken its time, sauntering in fashionably late. It is fashionable though, as its pre-orders come with a neat yellow t-shirt, below. In terms of price, the t-shirt is a free extra, with the...
Video This News Anchor Sure Is Excited About Super Mario Maker
"Oh man, this is so awesome!"
When Nintendo of America tweets a link to a TV news segment, we're normally inclined to shrug it off. We've seen enough news anchors stumble their way through a conversation about Nintendo games for one lifetime. Yet this one's a bit different. A Nintendo of America rep appeared on Fox 5 Morning News with some props,...
Video Prepare Your Creative Appetite with these Top Five Things to Make in Super Mario Maker
A fistful of favourites
Super Mario Maker is just a few months away, and in order to keep those creative juices flowing we've compiled a super concise list of five things we feel you absolutely must create in this stand-out creation game. Of course you no doubt have your own ideas as to what your creative fingers will be most keen to create first,...
Video Watch a Super Mario 30th Anniversary Mural Come Together in London
Move over, Banksy
Last week we had the pleasure of attending Nintendo UK's post-E3 showing in trendy Shoreditch in London. We've already been sharing our thoughts on the games on show there to supplement the fine work which Morgan and Alan did on the LA E3 show floor for us. One of the most striking things as we approached the venue showing...
News Nintendo Enjoys Success in the Game Critics E3 Awards
Best handheld & family game gongs
Nintendo might not have blown the doors off at E3 this year, but we still feel there are lots of exciting games on the way for Nintendo fans. Super Mario Maker and Star Fox Zero on the Wii U are both looking great and the 3DS is not without games to look forward to either, with tempting
News Super Mario Maker Won't Filter Your Naughty Levels, But Offensive Content Can Be Reported
Click a button and the level is "reviewed" by Nintendo
Super Mario Maker launches in September, and will give players the chance to create their very own Super Mario levels which they can then share with friends online. As is the case with any user-generated content, there's always the risk that some wannabe joker will create an offensive or...
Talking Point It's the Community That'll Put the 'Super' Into Mario Maker
Its legacy could be outstanding
Just this week we got another look at Super Mario Maker at a UK press event, and were struck by its significant potential. Yet we've already done a first impressions article from E3, which goes into detail on how well it's shaping up. If you want a strong outline of its core features and why we think it's marvellous,...
News 30th Anniversary Super Mario Concert Comes to Japan this September
No love for the West, Nintendo?
It seems that Nintendo has a thing for putting on excellent concerts to celebrate landmark anniversaries for its most treasured franchises. Here in the West, fans have had the privilege for the past few years of attending the Legend of Zelda Symphony of the Goddesses, a touring orchestra that covers several tracks and...
June2015
News Super Mario Maker Producer Tells Fans Not To Expect Zelda Maker Any Time Soon
"I think that might be a difficult task"
Super Mario Maker might not have been a brand-new title at this year's E3, but it certainly turned a lot of heads with its inventive mechanics and use of iconic Mario imagery. It also had many people wondering if Nintendo could perform the same trick with any of its other classic IPs - Legend of Zelda...
News Nintendo UK is Bringing a Few E3 Gems to HYPER JAPAN
Star Fox! Super Mario Maker! Tri Force Heroes! Other things!
HYPER JAPAN is one of the more diverse expo events to arrive in London every year. Rather than being focused on one particular hobby, it covers multiple aspects of Japanese culture - previous years have featured areas and exhibits dedicated to clothing, toys, art, food and - yes - video...
Feature The Biggest Wii U Retail Games of 2015 - Summer Edition
E3 has added some new hits
It's the Summer Solstice here at Nintendo Life HQ in the UK, the longest day of the year. That comes at the end of the longest week of the year following E3, at which Nintendo had a mixed showing. What the event did deliver, in addition to some controversy and a clutch of wonderful moments, was a clearer look at the...
First Impressions Celebrating a Gaming Icon With Super Mario Maker
Let's Super Mario!
Super Mario Maker, recently powered-up from its initial moniker of 'Mario Maker', was a huge part of Nintendo's E3 presence both this year and last. Just a few months ahead of its September release it still had plenty of new surprises in store for this year's show, and still managed to captivate attendees' imaginations. The...
News Super Mario Maker Will Allow You to Unlock amiibo Mystery Suits for Figures You Don't Own
At least 90 Mystery Suit slots will feature
We've now finished the final full day of Nintendo Treehouse coverage, which provided some useful insights into the company's biggest games from the show. Super Mario Maker naturally featured prominently, and we learned some particularly welcome details around the amiibo-enabled Mystery Suits in the game...
News Super Mario Maker's Packaging Sure Looks Pretty
Hardcover artbook gets shown off
Super Mario Maker is coming with a hardcover artbook which celebrates the 30th birthday of the portly Italian plumber, and Nintendo Europe has posted a very brief video of what it looks like on its Instagram account. In case you didn't know already, the Wii U game allows you to forge levels using assets and art from...
News Super Mario Maker Arrives This September With amiibo Support In Tow
Costume Mario also revealed
Nintendo's E3 Digital Event just wrapped up for another year and sure enough new information has emerged regarding the upcoming Wii U title, Super Mario Maker. Firstly, the game will be released on 11th September. This launch aligns with the 2015 celebration of the 30th anniversary of the Mario Bros. series. During a...
Video These Nintendo World Championships and Super Mario Maker Highlights Should Get You Warmed Up
The hype countdown begins
It's the day of the Nintendo Digital Event, in which Nintendo will stake its case to gamers and fans with games and reveals for this year and - probably - beyond. Yet of course the company has already been busy hosting the Nintendo World Championships at the weekend. We've already argued that we think Super Mario Maker...
Talking Point Super Mario Maker Stole the Show at the Nintendo World Championships 2015
A game changer for the franchise
The Nintendo World Championships 2015 was an event that had various similarities to the Super Smash Bros. Invitational from E3 2014 - it was charming, had some flat moments, the occasional hiccup, yet managed to seize momentum at key moments to keep us watching. It was a lengthy event that actually started rather...
News Super Mario Maker is the Final Name for the Anniversary Title
Yoshi, Kuribo's shoe and more appeared in NWC 2015
During the live Nintendo World Championships 2015 event Mario Maker made an appearance in the final round, and it's had a rebrand to Super Mario Maker. The final challenge incorporated the visual styles of Super Mario Bros.,
News Best Buy Canada Message Suggests a Mario Maker Release Date of 11th September
Makes sense...
Nintendo confirmed a September release for Mario Maker back in its April Direct, and now an over-eager Best Buy community manager appears to have outed the release date for Canada. It seems pretty legitimate, falling on a Friday and within that anticipated month - the date given is 11th September. This potential reveal - and we think...
May2015
Localised versions now live in Europe and North America
As you've no doubt been well aware for some time, this year brings the 30th Anniversary of Super Mario Bros., which is a notable landmark for the mascot and Nintendo as a whole. Mario Maker on Wii U will be a big part of the celebrations, certainly, and we think it's a safe assumption that more...
April2015
Talking Point Mario Maker Can Be A Game Changer For Nintendo And Its Relationship With Gamers
A future with NES Maker and more could be extraordinary
Sometimes a game has the power to seize the imagination from the moment it's revealed, with a self-hyping capacity to get thousands of gamers excited from little more than a glimpse. Others can be a slow burner or need the right moment to set off alarms in an individual's head. This writer will...
Weirdness Shigeru Miyamoto Takes on a Shinya Arino Level in Mario Maker, and It's Awesome
We'd give this level a Yeah
Game Center CX is rather iconic - popular in Japan and with a small legion of fans in the West, its host Shinya Arino is also particularly well known. Naturally Nintendo features regularly, and Arino-san recently took part in a special NicoNico fan event in which Shigeru Miyamoto appeared to show off September's Wii U...
News Mario Maker Japanese Website Points to Inclusion of Yoshi and, Maybe, Kuribo's Shoe
8-bit Yoshi, HD Kuribo's Shoe? Sign us up...
Sometimes it pays to look for clues and information on official Nintendo game pages published for the Japanese market. Some eagle-eyed Mario Maker fans over on NeoGaf have been looking around the Japanese website for the game and found some interesting pointers on potential content. For starters, as you...
News Get Ready To Build With Mario Maker On Wii U This September
Celebrating Mario's 30th anniversary
Mario fans were given a special mention during today's Nintendo Direct, as the portly plumber will be celebrating his 30th anniversary this year. To help mark the occasion, it was announced that Mario Maker will be coming to Wii U in September, so fans can create their own version of the Mushroom Kingdom as they...
March2015
Poll Which 2015 Nintendo Blockbusters Should Have amiibo Support?
A welcome extra or occasional option?
Since the launch of the first 'wave' alongside Super Smash Bros. for Wii U in November 2014, Nintendo's wasted little time in promoting and expanding amiibo. Continual waves have continued to take us towards coverage of the full cast in the brawling title, while an upcoming Super Mario range will accompany Mario...
