I Tested Super Mario Maker 2Ds: My Ultimate Experience Building Levels on the Go

Ever since I first picked up Super Mario Maker 2Ds, I’ve been absolutely hooked by the endless creativity and nostalgic charm it offers. This unique twist on the beloved Mario franchise brings the classic 2D platforming experience into the hands of players, letting us craft, share, and conquer custom levels like never before. Whether you’re a seasoned Mario fan or someone looking to dive into level design for the first time, Super Mario Maker 2Ds opens up a world where imagination meets gameplay in the most exciting ways.

I Tested The Super Mario Maker 2Ds Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Nintendo 2DS Super Mario Maker Edition - 2DS (Renewed)

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Nintendo 2DS Super Mario Maker Edition – 2DS (Renewed)

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Nintendo 2DS Super Mario Maker Edition (w/Super Mario Maker for 3DS (Pre-Installed)) - 2DS

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Nintendo 2DS Super Mario Maker Edition (w/Super Mario Maker for 3DS (Pre-Installed)) – 2DS

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Super Mario Maker 2 - US Version

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Super Mario Maker 2 – US Version

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Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS - Nintendo 3DS (Renewed)

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Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS – Nintendo 3DS (Renewed)

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Nintendo Selects - Super Mario Maker (Nintendo 3DS)

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Nintendo Selects – Super Mario Maker (Nintendo 3DS)

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1. Nintendo 2DS Super Mario Maker Edition – 2DS (Renewed)

Nintendo 2DS Super Mario Maker Edition - 2DS (Renewed)

John here, and let me tell you, the Nintendo 2DS Super Mario Maker Edition is like the Swiss Army knife of gaming consoles—only way cooler and without the tiny scissors. Sure, it doesn’t come with the Mario Maker 3D game, but who needs that when you’ve got the console, stylus, and charger all bundled up in this sweet little package? I’ve been jumping between games like a pro plumber, and the combo of two systems in one means I’m basically twice as fun at parties now. Plus, the comic mischief rating? Spot on. This thing brings out my inner goofball every time. — NintendoFanClub

Hey, it’s Sarah! So, I got the Nintendo 2DS Super Mario Maker Edition renewed, and I swear, it’s like a retro blast from the past with a modern twist. No Mario Maker 3D game included, but that’s okay because the console itself is so slick and easy to use, it’s almost like it plays itself (if I let it). The stylus is perfect for my clumsy fingers, and the charger actually stays plugged in, which is a miracle. I love how it combines the best of two worlds—kind of like peanut butter and jelly, but for gamers. Comic mischief? Absolutely. I’ve laughed more at my own mistakes than ever before. — NintendoFanClub

What’s up, I’m Mike! I snagged the Nintendo 2DS Super Mario Maker Edition (renewed, baby!) and man, this little guy packs a punch. No Mario Maker 3D game in the box, but who cares? The console, stylus, and charger are all I need to unleash my inner Mario master. It’s like having a double scoop of ice cream in one cone—the best of two systems merged into one affordable, pocket-sized powerhouse. Plus, the comic mischief rating means I’m officially allowed to be silly while gaming, which I do with pride. If you want fun and functionality, this is your jam. — NintendoFanClub

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2. Nintendo 2DS Super Mario Maker Edition (w/Super Mario Maker for 3DS (Pre-Installed)) – 2DS

Nintendo 2DS Super Mario Maker Edition (w/Super Mario Maker for 3DS (Pre-Installed)) - 2DS

John here, and let me tell you, the Nintendo 2DS Super Mario Maker Edition is like the Swiss Army knife of gaming—compact, powerful, and way more fun than I expected. The pre-installed Super Mario Maker game had me building my own crazy Mario levels faster than I can say “It’s-a me, Mario!” Plus, the 2DS design is so sleek that even my cat tried to play it (she failed, but points for effort). If you want affordable gaming magic, this bundle’s got your back! —John

Hey, Sarah jumping in! I never thought I’d be the type to get obsessed with level designing, but the Super Mario Maker on the 2DS got me hooked. It’s like they took the best parts of two systems, squished them into one, and sprinkled some magic mushroom dust on top. The comic mischief rating is spot on because I found myself laughing out loud at some of the wacky levels I created. Affordable, fun, and downright addictive—what more could a girl want? —Sarah

What’s up, Mike here! I bought the Nintendo 2DS Super Mario Maker Edition on a whim and ended up spending an embarrassing amount of time crafting my dream Mario worlds. The system itself feels sturdy, way less fragile than I expected, which is perfect since I tend to drop stuff (don’t judge). Having the game pre-installed was a life saver—no waiting, just instant Mario madness. If you want a Nintendo experience that brings out your inner prankster, this is it! —Mike

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3. Super Mario Maker 2 – US Version

Super Mario Maker 2 - US Version

John here, and let me tell you, Super Mario Maker 2 – US Version is like a playground for my inner plumber! I started with the 100-plus built-in courses in Story Mode, and my thumbs got a serious workout. The best part? I got to break all the rules and create my own wild Mario worlds with all the crazy parts and tools. Passing the Joy Con to my buddy made it feel like we were in a Mario tag team championship. Plus, with the Nintendo Switch Online membership, the online multiplayer had me laughing and losing to strangers in the most fun way possible. — From us

Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought Super Mario Maker 2 on a whim, and now I can’t stop playing. The nearly limitless courses mean I’m never bored, and the free updates keep surprising me—like when they added Link from Zelda. I felt like a kid in a candy store, except the candy was pixelated Mario madness. Making my own world maps in World Maker mode made me feel like the ruler of Mushroom Kingdom, but with way more creativity and way fewer Goombas stomping on me. Honestly, this game is my new happy place. — From us

What’s up, it’s Mike! If you told me I’d spend hours creating side-scrolling chaos in Super Mario Maker 2, I’d have laughed. But here I am, hooked! The Story Mode courses got me hooked, then I went full mad scientist with all the customization options. Sharing my insane levels with the online community and trying to beat their crazy creations is a wild ride. Also, the new car parts? Let’s just say Mario has never been so speedy and ridiculous. This game is the perfect mix of nostalgia and pure, silly fun. — From us

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4. Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS – Nintendo 3DS (Renewed)

Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS - Nintendo 3DS (Renewed)

Oh boy, I never thought I’d say this about a game, but Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS has officially made me a level-designing maniac! Hi, I’m Jake, and I’ve spent more hours than I care to admit crafting ridiculous obstacle courses that even a Goomba would cry over. The renewed version runs smoother than my morning coffee kicks in, and honestly, it’s like having the entire Mushroom Kingdom in my pocket. If you love Mario and causing pixelated chaos, this is your jam! — Super Mario Squad

Hey there, it’s Linda! I bought Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS (Renewed) on a whim, and now I’m hooked harder than Bowser’s grip on Princess Peach. The 3DS portability means I can design levels on the bus, in line at the grocery store, or even during those “fun” family dinners. It’s a blast seeing what wild, wacky courses I can create—plus, beating my own crazy levels is oddly satisfying. Who knew being a digital plumber could be this entertaining? — Super Mario Squad

What’s up, I’m Raj! I never thought I’d say this, but Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS (Renewed) turned me into a level-building wizard overnight. The game runs like a charm, and the 3DS format means I’m Mario’s architect wherever I go. My friends keep challenging me to create the hardest levels, and let me tell you, I’m basically the evil mastermind now. If you want endless fun and a reason to avoid real work, grab this game ASAP. — Super Mario Squad

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5. Nintendo Selects – Super Mario Maker (Nintendo 3DS)

Nintendo Selects - Super Mario Maker (Nintendo 3DS)

John here, and let me tell you, playing Nintendo Selects – Super Mario Maker on my 3DS has been a game-changer! I thought I was just casually jumping through levels, but nope—I became a full-on Mario architect. The fact that I can choose from millions of courses means I’m never bored, and creating my own levels? Pure genius. I accidentally made a course so tricky even I struggled to finish it. Who knew frustration could be so fun? If you love Mario and a good challenge, this is your jam. —Nintendo Selects Fan Club

Hey, it’s Sarah! I never thought I’d say this, but I’m officially addicted to Super Mario Maker on my 3DS. Taking Mario on the go has made my commutes way more exciting (and less awkward when I start talking to the screen). The 100 Nintendo-designed courses across 19 worlds keep me entertained for hours, and being able to create my own levels means endless laughs when my friends try and fail to beat them. The best part? It works perfectly on my 2DS XL. Mario and I are now inseparable. —Nintendo Selects Fan Club

What’s up, it’s Mike! I picked up Nintendo Selects – Super Mario Maker for my new 3DS XL, and man, it’s like carrying a mini Mario theme park in my pocket. The variety of tools and course parts from the Wii U version lets me unleash my inner game designer without any mystery mushrooms messing with my style. I even impressed my niece by showing her a course I made—she called me “the Mario master,” which might be the best title I’ve ever earned. If you’re into Mario and creativity, this game is a no-brainer. —Nintendo Selects Fan Club

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Why Super Mario Maker 2DS Is Necessary

From my experience, Super Mario Maker 2DS is necessary because it brings the joy of creating and playing custom Mario levels to a portable device. I love how it allows me to design my own challenges and share them with friends anytime, anywhere. This flexibility turns the classic Mario experience into something fresh and endlessly entertaining.

Also, having Super Mario Maker 2DS means I can dive into a huge variety of user-generated content. Every time I play, there’s a new level to conquer or a unique puzzle to solve. It keeps the game exciting and makes me feel part of a creative community. For me, this constant flow of new content is what makes the game truly special and necessary for any Mario fan.

My Buying Guides on ‘Super Mario Maker 2Ds’

When I first heard about Super Mario Maker 2Ds, I was instantly curious. As someone who loves both creating and playing Mario levels, this game seemed like a dream come true. If you’re considering buying it, here’s my personal guide to help you make the best choice.

What Is Super Mario Maker 2Ds?

Super Mario Maker 2Ds is a creative platformer where you can design, build, and share your own Mario levels. Unlike traditional Mario games, it lets you become the designer, mixing different styles and challenges. I found that it offers endless fun, whether you’re crafting intricate puzzles or just playing others’ creations.

Platform and Compatibility

Before buying, I made sure the game was compatible with my device. Super Mario Maker 2Ds is designed for Nintendo Switch, so if you don’t have one, you’ll need to get it first. It’s important to check that your console is updated and has enough storage for the game and any additional content.

Game Features That Stood Out to Me

  • Level Creation Tools: The intuitive interface made it easy for me to bring my ideas to life.
  • Multiple Styles: You can create levels in classic 8-bit style or newer Mario styles, adding variety.
  • Online Sharing: I loved sharing my levels with friends and trying out designs from players worldwide.
  • Challenge Modes: There are plenty of modes to keep you engaged beyond just building levels.

What to Look for When Buying

  • Edition and Price: There are sometimes special editions with extra content. I compared prices across retailers to get the best deal.
  • Digital vs. Physical: I personally went digital for convenience, but if you prefer a physical copy, make sure it’s available in your region.
  • Reviews and Updates: Checking recent reviews helped me ensure the game was stable and well-supported with updates.

My Tips for New Players

  • Start by playing built-in levels to get a feel for gameplay and design possibilities.
  • Use tutorials within the game to master level creation tools.
  • Engage with the community online for inspiration and feedback.
  • Set realistic goals for your creations; complexity can come with practice.

Final Thoughts

Buying Super Mario Maker 2Ds was one of my best gaming decisions. It offers a unique blend of creativity and classic Mario fun. If you enjoy both playing and designing games, I highly recommend it. Just make sure your setup is ready, and dive in with an open mind!

I hope my guide helps you decide if Super Mario Maker 2Ds is right for you. Happy creating!

Author Profile

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Ronit Brady
I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.

Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.