Right on schedule, Super Mario Run has arrived.
Super Mario Run is now available from Apple’s App Store. The first three levels are free, but to get the full game, you’ll need to make a one-time in-app purchase of $9.99. The game weighs in at 205MB, requires iOS 8 or later, and is compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.
As a refresher, Super Mario Run is the first mobile Mario game from Nintendo. In the main game, Mario constantly runs through levels, collecting coins and avoiding enemies. You can make Mario jump by tapping the screen with one hand. Nintendo is talking that up as a feature, which means that you can play Super Mario Run with one hand while doing something else with your other hand.
Super Mario Run also includes a mode called Toad Rally. This race mode has you competing with your friends, and you can earn a better score by doing stylish moves to please the Toad crowd that is watching you.
Finally, a Kingdom Builder mode has you gathering coins and Toads to build your own part of Mushroom Kingdom. You can make your Kingdom unique with your own buildings and decorations.
One other detail worth noting is that Nintendo has confirmed that you will need an internet connection to play Super Mario Run.
Finally, Nintendo has said that Super Mario Run is coming to Android, but the company hasn’t revealed when that launch will happen.
The release of Super Mario Run is big for Nintendo. It’s the first mobile Nintendo game to feature one of the company’s major properties, and it shows that Nintendo is finally starting to take mobile seriously. While Super Mario Run isn’t exactly a traditional Mario game, it looks well-made and has some replay value. Here’s to hoping that it hits Android sooner rather than later.
