Game of the Year 2012 - Genre Awards
What were our favorites in each genre in 2012?
New Super Mario Bros. U - Winner
After last year's upset, Mario has been aching to take back the top spot. While his 3DS outing wasn't quite the adventure we were pining for, his Wii U debut in New Super Mario Bros. U couldn't have been stronger. Four entries strong, the New Super Mario Bros. series has likely already worn its welcome with most gamers, but they should reconsider their position – New Super Mario Bros. U is easily the best Mario game in years and our top choice for Platformers of the year.
With a combination of new power-ups, baby Yoshi abilities, secret exits, extra levels, and more challenge than you can shake a stick at, New Super Mario Bros. U delivers a satisfying romp through a fresh new interconnected Mushroom Kingdom. If nothing more, the Flying Squirrel suit is one of the more engaging abilities that easily trumps the Tanooki Tail and offers deeper strategy than the cape from Super Mario World.
Mario's tried-and-true formula wrapped up in its prettiest package yet made New Super Mario Bros. U an easy choice for Platformer of the Year.
Write-up by Nick DiMola
Mutant Mudds - Runner Up
While it may have been bested by New Super Mario Bros. U, Mutant Mudds gave the Italian plumber a run for his money. If nothing more, Mutant Mudds is unquestionably the most challenging and most rewarding platformer of the year. Built on simple premises, players need only complete one objective in each level – collect the Water Sprite at the end. Along the way there's plenty to spice it up though – 100 diamonds scattered about, a hidden level or two to find, and three planes to spread the ultra-challenging platforming across.
The tight controls allow players to shoot, hover, and jump, and without the concept of momentum, Mutant Mudds demands precision. Each and every jump must be calculated and executed perfectly and the game often requires simultaneous execution of all three powers for success. Players who pine for the days of yore will be right at home with this runner up for Platformer of the Year.
Write-up by Nick DiMola
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