

The next you're running through a sequence of dash pads down a collection of narrow pathways. One moment you're tilting Toad down an old-fashioned pinball table. The developers have done an impressive job stretching the simple concept out across dozens of short levels that rarely feel repetitive or recycled (only a few reused boss fight vignettes, repeated with minor difference, really stick out in this regard). They manage to do just that, through some incredibly clever and varied level design. Now, with Captain Toad's Treasure Tracker, Nintendo is trying to prove that those bonus stages are interesting enough to sustain an entire, standalone platform game where you never jump under your own power. It was a nice change of pace that required using a different part of the brain than the more frenetic, standard 3D platforming that dominated the game. But one of the most interesting parts of last year's Super Mario 3D World was the bonus stages that took away that core ability, giving players control of a pudgy, waddling Captain Toad who had to use a complex series of ramps, ladders, and elevators if he wanted to gain altitude. Jumping is such a deeply ingrained part of the Mario experience that the protagonist in Donkey Kong was originally named "Jumpman" before he became the Nintendo mascot we know and love. Software description provided by the publisher.Links: Official Website | Nintendo eShop | AmazonCan you make a good Mario game without a jump button? Discover these experiences by revisiting the following courses as Captain Toad in four new mini-missions:

With a free software update for the Captain Toad game and the Toy-Con VR Goggles from Nintendo Labo™: VR Kit, join Captain Toad for a bite-sized bonus experience in simple, family friendly VR*. Aim your head-mounted flashlight at adventure! As you reclaim the treasure stolen by the monstrous, greedy bird, Wingo, you’ll eventually be able to play as Toadette! These tiny heroes must waddle, hide, pluck, chuck, and power-up through enemy-infested locales like towers, wild-west shanties, and Goomba waterparks-all bursting with secrets. You could also play alone in handheld mode! No matter what, explore each puzzling course for treasure, like hidden Super Gems and Power Stars. Play anytime, anywhere, and anyway you want-even in two-player mode using a pair of Joy-Con™ controllers on one Nintendo Switch system-in TV mode or Tabletop mode. Survive smoldering volcanoes, hazardous steam engines, haunted houses, and even new courses based on the Super Mario Odyssey™ game! Luckily, a second player can join in by tossing turnips at enemies. Captain Toad stars in his own puzzling quest on the Nintendo Switch™ system! Our stubby hero must dodge dangers and track treasures across many trap-filled courses.
