Wii U Critic Reviews

Despite the introduction of amiibo, Mario Tennis: Ultra Smash has little new content. Camelot powered up the gameplay instead, an over-the-top approach embodied by the Mega Mushroom, although the Jumpshot stands as the biggest addition. And the series' legendary accessibility, depth and balance also improved through this great touch of design, which elevates "Jumpman Tennis" among the most convivial games.

Nintendo’s best competitive sports title is just as thrilling as ever, but feels a little too familiar and light on content.

In conclusion, Mario Tennis Ultra Smash is well presented on the Nintendo Wii U and evolves the original N64 game into a worthy next-gen version. Sure, it is lacking some replay value but if you’re looking for multiplayer and online fun, this is the perfect game for those short bursts of fun as you “grand” slam your rackets against your Mario opponents, especially in MEGA BATTLE!

Mario Tennis Ultra Smash is a welcome addition to the Mario Tennis franchise. It's very fun and it looks amazing. Unfortunately, there's a huge lack of content.

Treat it as an HD remaster of the N64 game and this is actually one of the best Mario Tennis games since then, but the lack of features and extra content is a real turn-off.

Mario Tennis Ultra Smash brings the fun and entertaining gameplay that is expected from a title in the Mario Tennis series, along with a wide variety of characters and courts which will keep its players around the racquets for quite a while. It doesn't go beyond that, as it also leaves the impression that the game needs some additional work and the lack of game modes make its content feel rather empty.

Mario Tennis: Ultra Smash is a funny, colorful, exhilarating game... while it lasts. With poor online support and a lack of single player challenges, it's a missed chance for Nintendo.

Mario Tennis: Ultra Smash is a fun experience if shared with someone else, online or locally. If you’re planning to play it solo, there aren’t many options for you and, generally speaking, it’s not a content packed game.

Despite the fantastic presentation and brilliant on court gameplay, those looking for a solid single player experience can confidently ignore this entertaining but criminally undercooked offering.

At the end of the day, folks looking for something more to do with their collection of amiibos, or who want a new multiplayer game to sit down with their friends, should definitely consider this one. What I can’t recommend though is expecting too much out of it from a single player standpoint.