Super Mario: Endless Earth

Super Mario: Endless Earth takes the classic New Super Mario Bros. formula and throws it into a massive, open-world where you’re free to go anywhere, do anything, no linear levels, no strict path, just pure exploration. The overworld is huge, like, 2,016 in-game screens huge, packed with over 30 unique environments, eight themed fortresses, and 120 Power Stars hidden everywhere.

The gameplay loop is all about freedom. You start in this sprawling world with zero direction, and it’s up to you to explore, uncover fortresses, and tackle missions at your own pace. The Power Stars don’t save (which is a bummer), but they’re a fun incentive to poke around every corner. It’s basically Kirby and the Amazing Mirror but with Mario’s tight platforming and a soundtrack that mixes nostalgic bangers with fresh tracks: nonlinear, rewarding curiosity, and full of secrets. Some areas are locked behind progression, but the sheer scale means you’ll always have something new to discover.  

Visually, it’s a love letter to Mario’s history, blending familiar themes with creative new twists. The hack uses Yoichi Kotabe's iconic look for its cutscenes, which is such a cool touch. It’s like stepping into a lost ‘90s Mario anime, giving the story beats way more charm than your average romhack. The fortresses are standout moments, each with unique gimmicks that keep things fresh. The story ties in deep-cut references from across the Mario universe, which is cool for lore nerds, though it’s not exactly deep just a fun excuse to adventure.  

Now, it’s not flawless. The sheer size can feel overwhelming, and without saved Power Stars, you may feel unsatisfied. Plus, the open-ended nature might frustrate some players who prefer a more guided experience, it’s easy to get lost or stuck if you miss a hidden exit.

Verdict? If you’ve ever wanted to toss Mario into an open-world playground, Endless Earth delivers. It’s ambitious, packed with content, and a blast for anyone who loves exploration. Honestly, it’s wild how much love went into this.