It’s time for Mario to return to the tennis court this holiday season in Mario Tennis: Ultra Smash for the Nintendo Wii U. We were a little disappointed in how little we got to see of the game back during E3, but the new information makes the wait worthwhile.
One of the most appealing new features of Ultra Smash is the inclusion of amiibo support. In an incredibly similar manner to Super Smash Bros, players can enlist their amiibo figures to play as their doubles partners and it’ll gain experience along the way. It looks like the compatible amiibo at this point are Mario, Luigi, Peach, Yoshi, the Yarn Yoshis, Toad, Bowser, Rosalina, Wario, and Donkey Kong. And one of the most unique aspects this time around is that the amiibo can play alongside you online.
Just like Mario Tennis Open before it, Ultra Smash boasts an online play mode, in which you can play against others from around the world either by yourself, with your amiibo, or with a friend on the couch. This makes for a more complete Mario Tennis experience that the 3DS couldn’t really seem to capture.
On top of all of that, the game offers flashy new moves in addition to the previously teased Mega Battle, in which you can grab a Mega Mushroom and increase your character’s power. In addition to Classic Tennis, you’re also able to participate in a Knockout Challenge. Here, you’ll play tiebreaker matches against tough computer-controlled characters. If things get too hard though, you’re welcome to call in an amiibo for support.
Mario Tennis: Ultra Smash be launching on November 20th in the US for the Wii U.
