Super Mario Odyssey
© 2017 Nintendo of America
This sandbox-style 3D Mario adventure is the first since 1996's Super Mario 64 and 2002's Nintendo GameCube classic Super Mario Sunshine. In the story, you join Mario to collect Moons so you can power up your airship, the Odyssey, and rescue Princess Peach from Bowser's wedding plans. This is a one or two player (co-op) exploration experience with some reading and a lot of problem solving. Unlike past Mario Bros. titles, this game is about exploring ("it's about the journey, not the destination.") Content is delivered via Kingdoms which you visit in your ship (called the Odyssey). The game combines motion controls (e.g., flips) with traditional game mechanics, and many times you use Mario's hat as your weapon of choice. During the preview, we saw two kingdoms -- one themed after Mexico; the other New York City. This is an extremely rich game with countless play patters. You drive, ride, jump and collect coins which you can use to purchase items.
$60, Nintendo Switch
Teaches: reading, logic, problem solving
CTR Rating: 94%