Super Mario Maker will most likely end up being the biggest Wii U exclusive for the rest of 2015. If you are planning on getting the highly-anticipated game, we also suggest getting a few complementary accessories to make the experience even better.
About Super Mario Maker
First off, let’s talk a little bit about Super Mario Maker. In the game, you will be able to build 2D Mario levels using assets and templates from Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros. 3, Super Mario World and New Super Mario Bros. U. In addition to being able to create and upload levels, you can also download and play user-created stages.
Wii U GamePad Protection
Since you will be using the Wii U GamePad a lot to build the levels, we suggest protecting the controller from wear and tear. This is because the pad itself is pretty expensive and can’t be bought separately from the Wii U. So it is best to keep it in tiptop shape.
To do so, we recommend getting the officially licensed Hori Protector as it is designed to protect both the front and back sides of the GamePad from dirt, scratches in addition to general wear and tear. Not to mention that all of the basic functions and ports will still be accessible. If you are interested, you can buy the Splatoon version of the protector with this link from Amazon.
Another great product for the Wii U controller is the Hori Precision Screen Filter. The officially licensed product prevents your touch screen from being scratched. It should be easy to apply so that you don’t have to worry about any air bubbles and dust particles being trapped in the process. Last but not least, the product also comes with a cleaning cloth. You can purchase the Hori Precision Screen Filter here.
Alternate Controllers
Although the Wii U Gamepad is needed to build stages in Super Mario Maker, there are better ways to play the levels.
The videogame also supports the Wii U Pro Controller, Wii Remote, Wii Classic and Wii Classic Pro. All four alternatives are better suited for playing 2D platformers when compared to the Wii U GamePad, especially if you are planning to play for hours. You can out the compatible controllers with the following links: Wii U Pro Controller, Wii Remote, Wii Classic and Wii Classic Pro.
Wii U LAN Ethernet Adapter
Although Super Mario Maker does not require an internet connection, you will be missing out on a bunch of features (such as sharing a level, rating a stage and playing user-created ones) if you are playing offline.
If you don’t have Wi-Fi in your home and/or would rather use a wired connection, you should pick up a Wii U LAN Ethernet Adapter. Fortunately, these are relatively cheap. You can take a look at some compatible adapters with the following pages: HDE Ethernet LAN Adapter, TRENDnet USB 2.0 to 10/100 Fast Ethernet LAN Wired Network Adapter and UtechSmart USB 2.0 to 10/100 Fast Ethernet LAN Wired Network Adapter.
Amiibo
Super Mario Maker supports a lot of Amiibo figures as well. The Super Mario Bros. 30th Anniversary Amiibos, for instance, are going to unlock the Giant Mushroom power-up when used.
The other compatible figures will unlock costumes in the game. The supported Amiibos include Bowser, Bowser Jr., Captain Falcon, Charizard, Chibi-Robo, Cyrus, Dark Pit, Diddy Kong, Digby, Donkey Kong, Dr. Mario, Duck Hunt, Falco, Fox, Ganondorf, Greninja, Ike, Inkling Boy, Inkling Girl, Inkling Squid, Isabelle, Jigglypuff, K.K, King Dedede, Kirby, Link, Little Mac, Lottie, Lucario, Lucina, Luigi, Mabel, Mario, Marth, Mega Man, Meta Knight, Mr. Game and Watch, Ness, Olimar, Pac-Man, Palutena, Peach, Pikachu, Pit, Reese, R.O.B., Robin, Rosalina, Samus, Sheik, Shulk, Sonic, Toad, Tom Nook, Toon Link, Villager Wario, Wii Fit Trainer, Yoshi, Zelda and Zero Suit Samus.
You can check out a majority of the above-mentioned figures with this link.
Similar Games
If you are looking for inspiration when it comes to creating levels, you should check out some of the 2D Mario games. The Super Mario Bros. series, as well as Super Mario World, can be bought on the eShop in addition to being bundled together as part of the Super Mario All-Stars Limited Edition for the Wii.
You should also check out New Super Mario Bros. Wii for the Wii in addition to New Super Mario Bros. U and New Super Luigi U for the Wii U.
With the abovementioned accessories (as well as some games if you need the inspiration), you should be able to get the maximum enjoyment in Super Mario Maker. The Wii U exclusive will be made available starting on the 11th of September.