Super Mario Odyssey is here, and by all accounts, it is a freakin’ masterpiece. Nintendo‘s creative team has done it again with another instant classic, and this game may be the only thing that could possibly tear us away from Stranger Things 2 this weekend. But before you take a deep dive into Mario’s latest adventure, today’s Nerdist News has six tips that you should know ahead of time.
Join host and the mayor of New Donk City, Jessica Chobot, as she walks us through the fundamentals of Super Mario Odyssey. The first two things that you need to know are that the coins actually have value in this game, and you should immediately practice jumping. Mario’s leaping abilities have been significantly upgraded, thanks in part to his new magic hat, Cappy. And there are many new secrets to find once you’ve mastered your jumps. As for the coins, you’ll be able to purchase different upgrades and costumes, which will make them more than worth your time to collect.
While Cappy can allow Mario to possess some enemies, NPCs, and inanimate objects, its mind control possession powers are useless against anyone who is already wearing a hat. For example, Mario wouldn’t be able to jump into the mind of the gentleman pictured above. But almost anyone else is fair game.
In Super Mario Odyssey, collecting moons may be the only thing more important than saving the princess from her wedding date with Bowser. These crescent shaped collectibles are the key to unlocking new worlds and powering the Odyssey itself. Some of the moons won’t be available until late in the game, or even until after you beat it, so get ready for some backtracking.
If you’re stuck while on the hunt for moons, don’t worry. Nintendo has included numerous ways to help you find them. That includes the “Hint Toad” who can mark the moon locations on your map, as well as a friendly Nintendog, and a Cockatoo who shouts out a few helpful tips. A good rule of thumb is that if something seems strange or worth exploring, it probably means that there are moons nearby.
Finally, and this is important, the Amiibos can give Mario a coin boost at the start of every level. And the game also introduces players to “Uncle Amiibo,” a new character who will hunt down moons for you once you plug him into an Amiibo. As Nintendo used to say in the ’90s, “Now you’re playing with power!”
What are your early impressions of Super Mario Odyssey? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
Images: Nintendo
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