Super Mario 3D Land beginner guide: depth, timers and Tanooki control
Read compact 3D courses and use power-ups to improve landings.
Edition covered
Original Nintendo 3DS release. Super Mario 3D World characters, Green Stars and Cat Suits are outside this game.
Read depth before jumping
A platform can look closer from one camera angle than it really is. Use shadows, edges and the character’s landing position to judge distance.
| Move | Use | Landing cue |
|---|---|---|
| Run and jump | Cross ordinary gaps | Watch the shadow. |
| Wall jump | Gain height between walls | Face a reachable surface. |
| Ground pound | Strike downward | Check the platform below. |
| Tanooki float | Slow descent | Release over a stable landing. |
Keep the timer in view
Exploration still happens inside a time limit. Learn the main route before spending a full attempt searching for a hidden medal.
| Goal | What to watch | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Reach the flag | Main route and timer | Completes the stage. |
| Collect medals | Three medal slots | Supports gates and completion. |
| Reach flag top | Final jump setup | Tracks a separate result. |
| Preserve a suit | Damage hazards | Keeps useful movement available. |
Use a reserve item deliberately
The touch screen can hold a spare power-up. Keep a useful form available for a section that repeatedly causes damage or missed jumps.
Separate a clear from a complete course
A course can be cleared without every Star Medal or the top-of-pole result. Revisit with the missing goal in mind.
The touch screen can hold a spare power-up. Keep a useful form available for a section that repeatedly causes damage or missed jumps.
References
| Reference | Website |
|---|---|
| Super Mario Wiki: Super Mario 3D Land | www.mariowiki.com |