New Super Luigi U

This 2013 standalone expansion plunges you into over 80 new platforming courses set in the world of New Super Mario Bros. U, playable without the base game. You control Luigi, whose distinct physics—higher jumps and a unique slide—define the challenge. Each stage starts with a tight 100-second timer, demanding mastery of these mechanics for completion. Up to five players can join, with Nabbit available as an invincible co-op character.

This title, released in 2013 for the Wii U, is a standalone expansion that transports players into a fresh adventure set within the familiar world of its parent game, New Super Mario Bros. U. While it shares the same setting where Bowser’s gang has taken over Princess Peach’s Castle, this experience focuses entirely on a different hero. It offers over 80 entirely new courses built specifically to test players' platforming skills in a new context. Although it utilizes the core mechanics of its predecessor, the gameplay experience is fundamentally altered by the change in the main character.

Core Gameplay Shift: Playing as Luigi

The central appeal of this expansion lies in taking control of Luigi. Unlike the standard experience, players must adapt to Luigi's distinct physics. This includes his signature higher and longer jumps, which offer greater aerial control, balanced by a unique, extended slide that requires precise timing for stopping and navigating tight spaces.

What makes this game unique compared to the original?

The primary difference is the focus on precision and speed. Every course in this adventure begins with a strict time limit of only 100 seconds. This compressed timer demands mastery of the new physics to complete stages quickly, offering significant replayability for those seeking to perfect their runs. Furthermore, the level design is entirely new, presenting fresh challenges built around Luigi's specific movement set.

Multiplayer and Character Options

Up to five players can participate in the adventure. While Luigi is the star, the role traditionally held by Mario is filled by the character Nabbit. Nabbit offers a distinct advantage, as they are invincible to enemies and obstacles, providing a different dynamic for cooperative play.

Platform and Control Flexibility

This game was developed and published by Nintendo for the Wii U console. Players have flexibility in how they engage with the content, supporting play using the Wii Remote controller, the Wii U GamePad controller, or the Wii U Pro Controller.

Standalone Content Availability

As a standalone expansion, this title does not feature any additional downloadable content (DLCs) or further expansions beyond the initial 80+ courses provided at launch. It stands as a complete, self-contained platforming challenge.

How does this relate to the main game?

While it is playable without owning the original New Super Mario Bros. U, it exists within that game's universe and storyline—namely, the mission to reclaim Princess Peach’s Castle from Bowser’s forces. It serves as an extensive, alternative path through that established world, emphasizing a different set of platforming skills.