Nintendo had a great year in 2023, with amazing releases like Fire Emblem Engage and Super Mario RPG remake. However, standout releases Tears of the Kingdom and Super Mario Bros. Wonder still managed to shine above the rest. Tears of the Kingdom showed that the massive success of Breath of the Wild could be replicated, while Super Mario Bros. Wonder brought fresh innovations to the old 2D Mario formula.

Both leading franchises have gone their separate ways, with Zelda likely planning its next installment and Mario's next mainline game uncertain. Before creating something entirely new, Super Mario Bros. should consider following Tears of the Kingdom's strategy and release a sequel.

Mario Wonder and Tears of the Kingdom Are Both Built On Iteration

Super Mario Bros. Wonder is as much of a sequel as Tears of the Kingdom. While TotK directly iterates on Breath of the Wild's narrative and mechanics, Mario Wonder also builds upon prior 2D platformers. It has revived the 2D Mario series with new twists and a fresh aesthetic.

There Are Plenty Of Things Left To Do With Mario Wonder's Formula

Super Mario Bros. Wonder has managed to breathe new life into the old-school Mario games. Its vibrant aesthetic, new badge system, online mode, and Wonder Flower gimmicks have given the series a modern facelift. There's still plenty of potential to explore this fresh take on the Mario series, making it a better direction than previous entries.

A Mario Wonder Sequel Would Be Fleshed Out Like Tears of the Kingdom

A sequel to Super Mario Bros. Wonder could expand on its art style, animations, playable characters, power-ups, online features, and Wonder effects, unlocking the true potential of the game.

What A New Game Could Build Out of Mario Wonder

A sequel could introduce new power-ups, expand the online mode, and further explore Wonder effects. Building upon the foundation of Mario Wonder will be key to unlocking its true potential and elevating the series for future games.