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New Super Mario Bros. 2

Review · Platformer · Nintendo 3DS

New Super Mario Bros. 2

By the LumiKin editors

Reviewed: 01 May 2026

Nintendo 3DS

Nintendo · 2012

LumiScore

59/100

Good

Automated review

New Super Mario Bros. 2 is a platformer that improves hand-eye coordination and spatial awareness through classic gameplay.

Growth (BDS)

44

Risk (RIS)

11

Daily limit

120min

Age guidance

7+

Developmental benefits

B1Cognitive
0.44
B2Social-emotional
0.37
B3Motor
0.55

New Super Mario Bros. 2 offers engaging 2D platforming challenges that enhance problem-solving, spatial awareness, and hand-eye coordination. The local co-op mode fosters teamwork and communication, while the coin-collecting mechanic provides a fun sense of achievement and encourages replayability.

Design risks

R1Dopamine pressure
0.13
R2Monetization
0.08
R3Social risk
0.11

While largely benign, the game's focus on coin collection and high scores in Coin Rush mode could introduce mild competitive pressure and social comparison. The optional in-game purchases, though not pay-to-win, represent a minor monetization risk that parents should be aware of.

Heads up

  • Monthly spendTypical real-money spend by engaged players: $0–5/mo.
Avg playtime~4 hReviewedMay 2026How scores are calculated →

Parents ask…

Is New Super Mario Bros. 2 safe for kids?

LumiKin gives New Super Mario Bros. 2 a LumiScore of 59/100, recommended for ages 7 and up. It offers solid benefits but needs parental guidance on the risks.

What age is New Super Mario Bros. 2 appropriate for?

LumiKin's rubric recommends a minimum age of 7+ for New Super Mario Bros. 2 (E), based on benefits, risks, and content review.

How long should kids play New Super Mario Bros. 2?

LumiKin's recommended play time for New Super Mario Bros. 2 is Up to 2 hours/day, calibrated to the game's dopamine, monetization, and social-pressure profile.

What are the main risks of New Super Mario Bros. 2?

While largely benign, the game's focus on coin collection and high scores in Coin Rush mode could introduce mild competitive pressure and social comparison. The optional in-game purchases, though not pay-to-win, represent a minor monetization risk that parents should be aware of.