Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker makes the jump over to the Nintendo Switch. Check out Kidzworlds review of this Nintendo port!
By: Max Cannon
The Nintendo Switch is often called out for how many ports wind up in the library but that criticism doesn't hold as much weight when the game is as awesome as Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker. The new stages thrown into the game are welcome additions and just returning to the game's cute design is a trip worth taking.
Captain Toad's visuals look much clearer than the Wii U days.Courtesy of Nintendo
Making the Switch from Wii U
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker started out as a mini-game in the Wii U launch title Super Mario 3D World before being designed as a full sized game for the same console. Here's what we had to say back in the Wii U days:
"Perhaps a long time overdue after being featured in countless Super Mario games. Toad finally makes his leading man debut in Nintendo's whimsical puzzle game, Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker.
It's a wonderful bookend to a great year for Nintendo fans. Offering fun and casual gameplay that's equally great for short bursts or long gaming sessions.
A trip to New Donk City is sure to delight Odyssey fans.Courtesy of Nintendo
A charming, accessible platform puzzle game featuring engaging gameplay, starring Toad and Toadette. Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker makes for an entertaining change of pace, offering enough challenge to keep you interested while also avoiding frustration. It's a good addition to the growing Wii U library and a great way for Nintendo's first-party teams to end the year."
Captain Toad Treasure Tracker - Overview Trailer
That praise we showered upon it then is still welcome today, Treasure Tracker is a different take on the Mario universe and that's something you don't see often anymore. A cute and relaxing set of puzzle games made better by being scooted over to the Switch, with impressive visuals and clever solutions.
Playing in docked mode improves the look but hurts the playability.Courtesy of Nintendo
What's New?
Things aren't exactly the same here as they were back on the Wii U. A few new levels have made their way into the game and they're set in Kingdoms from Super Mario Odyssey. On top of these new challenges, there are Pixel Toads, thrown on top of the original release's secondary objectives, and these are sneaky little 8-bit toads that just need to be spotted with the in-game aiming, things start out easy but get more challenging as you go.
Toad's cute cast of characters keep the small worlds feeling alive.Courtesy of Nintendo
While the Wii U made great use of having two screens, and I'd imagine the new 3DS version also does, the Switch doesn't have the same opportunity. Playing the game in handheld mode is perfectly fine with the game's touchscreen but when you're docked you're unable to easily tap and select various objects through the world. The game makes use of your Joy-Con movement, or Pro Controller, to physically aim a pointer by moving your controller. It feels bizarre with the traditional Pro Controller but pretty good with the Joy-Con despite not working as well as the Wii U.
The game's secrets start easy but get more challenging.Courtesy of Nintendo
Final Thoughts
You're just as likely to have a good time with Captain Toad now as you were way back then in the Wii U era. The controls on the Switch don't work as effectively as they did on the Wii U but the new worlds alongside more impressive visuals make this a great port for first timers, and a decent reason to return if you're a fan of the original.
Pros
- Great Visuals
- New Challenges
- Cute Vibe
Cons
- Worse in Docked
- Controls Feel A Tad Worse Than Original
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker Game Rating:
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker Box ArtCourtesy of Nintendo
Available for Nintendo Switch, 3DS
Have Your Say!
Have you tried out Captain Toad? Are you picking the game up on 3DS or Switch? Share your thoughts below!
