What Is the Mario Tennis Game on Wii U?

The exclusive tennis title featuring Nintendo’s iconic mascot on the Wii U console is called Mario Tennis: Ultra Smash. Released in 2015, this installment brings the classic sports action to the eighth generation of home consoles with enhanced graphics and new gameplay mechanics. This article explores the key features, game modes, and roster details that define this specific entry in the long-running Mario Tennis series.

Game Overview and Release

Mario Tennis: Ultra Smash was developed by Camelot Software Planning and published by Nintendo. It launched globally in late 2015 as one of the few sports titles available for the Wii U platform. The game builds upon the foundation of previous entries like Mario Tennis Open on the 3DS but introduces significant changes to the court dynamics and special shots.

Key Gameplay Features

One of the standout additions in Ultra Smash is the Mega Mario mechanic. By collecting specific orbs during a match, players can grow to a gigantic size and smash the ball with increased power and reach. Another new addition is the Flower Shot, which allows players to summon a piranha plant on the opponent’s side of the court to obstruct their view and return capabilities. These features add a layer of chaos and strategy not seen in earlier simulations.

Modes and Roster

The game includes several modes such as Knockout Mode, where players must defeat opponents in quick succession, and Classic Tennis, which adheres to standard rules. The roster features a wide array of characters from the Mario universe, including Mario, Luigi, Peach, Bowser, and newer additions like Boom Boom and Pom Pom. Online play was also supported, allowing users to compete against friends and strangers worldwide before the service discontinuation.

Legacy on the Platform

As the sole mainline Mario tennis experience on the Wii U, Ultra Smash holds a unique place in the franchise’s history. While it received mixed reviews regarding its content volume compared to predecessors, it remains the definitive answer for gamers searching for the name of the tennis game featuring Mario on Wii U.