My Mario Maker 2 Super World

To showcase my skills in 2D level design, I have created and compiled a series of 40 levels in the game “Super Mario Maker 2.” If you have the game yourself, the world code is BJ5-GBD-RMG. No need to worry if you don’t have it; I’ll be going over some of the notable levels and explaining my design process below.

I started with making a written list of cool level gimmicks. I then pick one to start working off of it. For example, this level has platforms that toggle on and off whenever the player jumps.

Next, I start sketching out ideas around that gimmick. I start with a safe tutorial introducing the gimmick without any hazards, then start drawing whatever comes to mind. I then organize the bite-sized challenges by difficulty and start assembling in-game.

After constructing the designs, I iterate them to help balance their difficulty. For example, on your right, the gap requires an unnecessarily long jump, so I closed the gap more. Some of the challenges get cut in this phase.

I repeat the iterative process for every challenge. I finish the level design process by adding visual flair with varied ground blocks and semi-solid platforms in the background.

Further below you can read about some of my notable levels.

A metroidvania inspired level requiring you to collect armor and items in order to progress.

Maneuver yourself up and down the vines to dodge incoming enemies and obstacles.

This level has a greater emphasis on the boss battle than the platforming. Navigate the two rooms ridden with fire, and endure the inferno gauntlet while dodging Ludwig’s spells from above.

You travel back in time to prevent a thwomp from killing the leader of the Koopa village.

Progress through the level without pressing left on the joystick. If you do look back, a mechanism will activate that destroys the floor beneath you.

Drive a car to the end of the level in under 30 seconds. A tough but fair test of your reaction time.

If you have Mario Maker 2 and now want to try the world for yourself, the world code is BJ5-GBD-RMG.