Creating a unique, engaging boss encounter in Super Mario Maker is a difficult thing to pull off. Anyone can drop a super-sized Bowser into a fire-breathing Koopa Clown Car – that’s child’s play. But to craft an encounter that spans an entire full-length level, incorporates an evolving giant mech suit, and boasts a perfectly tuned difficulty ramp; well, that takes a special kind of Super Mario Maker designer.
Super Mario Vs. Mecha Bowzilla just such a level. And its creator, user Kiavik from Italy, brilliantly stacks components and utilizes locomotion to create what is easily the greatest boss encounter I’ve seen in the game yet. Apparently Nintendo agrees, as NOA saw fit to tweet a link to the level’s bookmark last week.
The titular Mecha Bowzilla, piloted by Bowser Jr., pursues Mario across sections of the level using a surprising range of attacks like stiletto stomps, cannon volleys and flying chain chomp punches. Mario is eventually forced to venture inside the giant, mechanical beast to systematically dismantle it from within.
If you’ve taken a little break from Super Mario Maker – like I have – over the past couple months, this is a perfect opportunity to jump back in and witness the ever-evolving ingenuity of its players. You can bookmark the level here and try it for yourself.
Written by Brittin Shauers
Brittin literally grew up with Link, Mario and Samus. These three characters and their worlds collectively capture everything that he loves about video games.
