Super Mario Run

Nintendo EPD

iOS; AndroidFree-to-download with a one-time in-app purchase to unlock full game

Health Score

DECENT

Official Website Watch Gameplay

About This Game

Super Review

Super Mario Run offers accessible, one-handed platforming with beloved characters, making it family-friendly. However, a required always-online connection and a single, substantial payment to unlock the full game are notable caveats. The competitive 'Toad Rally' mode can encourage focused, repeated play.

Super Review

Parent verdict

Super Mario Run presents a qualified fit for families. While the core gameplay is classic Mario fun, its 'Decent' score of 51 reflects the significant hurdle of an always-online connection and a single, larger upfront purchase to access most content. It's best with clear limits around play duration, especially for the competitive elements, and with parental management of the game's full unlock.

What players actually do

Players tap the screen to make Mario jump over obstacles and enemies, collecting coins and navigating levels automatically.
Players compete against 'ghost' versions of other players in Toad Rally, aiming to collect more coins and perform stylish moves to win Toads for their kingdom.
Players use earned Toads and coins in Kingdom Builder mode to customize their Mushroom Kingdom, unlocking new buildings, characters, and bonus games.

Where it shines

The game offers simple, intuitive one-handed controls, making it easy for young children or casual players to pick up and enjoy immediately.
It features beloved Mario characters and low-intensity cartoon violence, providing a broadly family-friendly experience without intense content.

Parent watch-outs

Super Mario Run requires a persistent internet connection to play, which can frustrate children in areas with poor Wi-Fi or when playing on the go.
While free to download, most of the game's content is locked behind a single, one-time purchase, which might be a surprise for children expecting a fully free experience.

Family rules worth setting

Establish clear expectations regarding the one-time purchase to unlock the full game and manage the purchase through parental controls.
Set time limits for play sessions, especially for the competitive Toad Rally mode, to encourage balanced screen time.

Talk about this

Discuss the concept of online-only games and why an internet connection is always needed to play Super Mario Run, relating it to data usage.
Talk about the difference between free-to-download and truly free games, explaining how the one-time purchase works here compared to ongoing microtransactions in other games.

Play style

This auto-runner platformer is designed for short, repeatable sessions, perfect for mobile play. Difficulty is adjustable through the challenge coins in World Tour levels and the competitive nature of Toad Rally, which can become intense. Primarily a solo experience in World Tour, but Toad Rally involves competing against other players' 'ghosts'. Younger children might need help mastering advanced jumps or strategy in Toad Rally to win Toads for Kingdom Builder.

Score Breakdown

Positive Aspects

Educational Value

1/5

Creativity

2/5

Pro-Social

2/5

Risk Factors

Addictive Monetization

1/5

Time Pressure / FOMO

1/5

Social Risk

1/5

Content Intensity

1/5

Why this rating

Educational Value

1/5

Super Mario Run offers minimal direct educational content. While it can enhance basic motor skills and quick reflexes, these are inherent to platforming games rather than explicit learning objectives.

Addictive Monetization

1/5

The game's monetization model is a transparent one-time purchase to unlock all levels. This avoids the predatory, recurring microtransaction loops found in many mobile games, making it a low risk for addictive spending.

Negatives

•Requires a persistent internet connection (always-online DRM) which can frustrate play and involves online interactions
•Most content is locked behind a single paid unlock (cost may surprise children)
•Competitive Toad Rally can encourage repeated/competitive play.