Is Super Mario Maker 2 Only on Switch? Unpacking the Platform Exclusivity and More
The short and definitive answer to the question is: Yes, Super Mario Maker 2 is exclusively available on the Nintendo Switch family of systems. This means you can only play it on the standard Nintendo Switch, the Nintendo Switch Lite, and the Nintendo Switch OLED model. There are no versions or plans to release it on other platforms like PlayStation, Xbox, or PC. This exclusivity is a key part of Nintendo’s strategy, encouraging players to invest in their hardware ecosystem to experience their unique first-party titles.
Understanding the Nintendo Exclusivity
Nintendo is well-known for keeping their flagship franchises, like Mario, Zelda, and Pokémon, on their own consoles. This strategy has proven successful, drawing players to the Nintendo ecosystem. Super Mario Maker 2, with its robust level creation and sharing tools, is a prime example of this exclusivity model. Its unique blend of creativity and classic Mario platforming is a major selling point for the Switch.
The game leverages the Switch’s portability, allowing players to create and play levels at home or on the go. The touchscreen functionality is integral to the creation aspect, making it easy to manipulate and place objects directly on the level canvas. These design choices are tailored to the Switch platform, making it unlikely we’ll see a port to other systems.
The Appeal of Super Mario Maker 2
The draw of Super Mario Maker 2 extends beyond just playing standard Mario levels. It’s about the endless possibilities of creating your own side-scrolling adventures and sharing them with a global community. Players have built everything from simple, nostalgic throwbacks to incredibly intricate, challenging, and sometimes downright bizarre levels. This creative freedom, coupled with the inherent charm of the Mario universe, is why Super Mario Maker 2 has such enduring appeal.
The game also features a compelling Story Mode, offering a curated series of levels designed by Nintendo to guide new players and provide inspiration for level design. This mode, while not multiplayer, provides a substantial single-player experience even for those who aren’t interested in the creative aspect of the game.
Why Not Other Platforms?
The fact that Super Mario Maker 2 remains a Switch exclusive often raises questions about its availability on other platforms. Here are a few reasons why Nintendo likely chooses to keep it within their ecosystem:
- Hardware Control: Nintendo wants players to buy their consoles to play their games. By keeping titles like Super Mario Maker 2 exclusive, they drive sales of the Switch.
- Touchscreen Integration: The game relies heavily on the Switch’s touchscreen, which would need considerable adaptation for other platforms.
- Brand Identity: Keeping key franchises on Nintendo systems reinforces their brand identity and highlights their unique offerings.
- Maintaining a Strong First-Party Lineup: Exclusive games are a key component of Nintendo’s strategy, giving them a clear advantage in the competitive gaming market.
The Online Component and Nintendo Switch Online
A significant aspect of Super Mario Maker 2 is its online functionality. Sharing and playing user-created courses is a central part of the experience, requiring a Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) subscription. Without this subscription, you are limited to the game’s Story Mode, pre-created Nintendo levels, and the ability to create levels for personal use. The ability to engage with the community by uploading and playing others’ creations is only accessible with NSO.
No Cross-Platform Play
Given the exclusivity of the game to Nintendo Switch and the fact that online play relies on Nintendo Switch Online, it is safe to assume there is no cross-platform play capability for Super Mario Maker 2 with other consoles or PC. The game is designed to be a part of the Nintendo ecosystem, keeping the online experience contained within the platform.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about Super Mario Maker 2, its platform exclusivity, and related topics:
1. Can you play Super Mario Maker 2 on a computer?
No, Super Mario Maker 2 is not available on PC. It is exclusively available on the Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch Lite, and Nintendo Switch OLED.
2. Does Super Mario Maker 2 require Nintendo Switch Online?
Yes, a Nintendo Switch Online subscription is required to access user-created levels and online multiplayer features. Without it, you are limited to single-player modes.
3. Can you play Super Mario Maker 2 in handheld mode?
Absolutely! Super Mario Maker 2 works perfectly in handheld mode on both the standard Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo Switch Lite.
4. What devices can you play Super Mario Maker 2 on?
Super Mario Maker 2 is exclusively available on the Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch Lite, and Nintendo Switch OLED.
5. Can you play Mario Maker 2 online?
Yes, you can play Super Mario Maker 2 online with friends and other players, provided you have a Nintendo Switch Online subscription.
6. Did Super Mario Maker 2 sell well?
Yes, Super Mario Maker 2 has been a commercial success, selling over 7.15 million copies worldwide by March 2021, making it one of the best-selling games on the Switch.
7. Is there going to be a Mario Maker 3?
While there are no official announcements of a Super Mario Maker 3, the series’ popularity suggests that a future installment is possible. There are unofficial mentions of a game release on a mock console, but those should be viewed as fan theories.
8. What is the difference between Mario Maker 1 and 2?
Super Mario Maker 2 is a completely different game for the Switch, with a campaign, hundreds of new features, a new level theme (3D World), and numerous improvements over the original Super Mario Maker.
9. Can you get Super Mario Maker 2 on PS4 or PlayStation?
No, Super Mario Maker 2 is not available on PS4 or any other PlayStation console. It’s exclusively a Nintendo Switch game.
10. Why is Mario not on PlayStation?
Nintendo is the sole creator of the Mario games and chooses to release them exclusively on their own systems to encourage console sales and maintain brand identity.
11. Is Bowser in Mario Maker 2?
Bowser does appear in the Super Mario Maker 2 title screen opening sequence, but he doesn’t play a significant role in the game itself.
12. Is Mario Maker 2 worth it in 2023?
Yes, Super Mario Maker 2 remains a highly recommended game in 2023 for its vast content, replayability, and creative freedom.
13. What is the next Mario game in 2023?
Super Mario Bros.™ Wonder was the next major Mario title, released on October 20, 2023, followed by Super Mario RPG™ on November.
14. Do you need membership for Super Mario Maker 2?
Yes, a Nintendo Switch Online membership is essential for enjoying the full functionality of Super Mario Maker 2, particularly if you want to play online.
15. Is Mario Maker 2 story mode multiplayer?
No, the story mode in Super Mario Maker 2 is not multiplayer. Co-op play is only available when playing custom levels you’ve created or downloaded.
Final Thoughts
Super Mario Maker 2 remains a beloved and highly creative title, but it is firmly rooted within the Nintendo Switch ecosystem. The game’s unique blend of level creation, classic Mario gameplay, and online community features make it a valuable addition to any Switch library. While its exclusivity might disappoint those on other platforms, it’s a strategic choice that underscores Nintendo’s commitment to its own hardware and unique gaming experiences. If you want to enjoy this imaginative title, owning a Nintendo Switch is a must.