*DISCLAIMER: This review will largely focus on the Switch version of "3D World," as well as the side game "Bowser's Fury." As I have previously done a proper review of "Super Mario 3D World," I won't be diving extremely deep into the base game. Check out my profile to find my thoughts on the original game.*
"Super Mario 3D World" was an excellent game when it released in 2013, and even if it didn't revolutionize the "Mario" series, it managed to succeed by being the culmination of all the great things Nintendo has done with the franchise. As it is, though, while it was a decently successful game in terms of sales, it was one of the many first-party Wii U games that lost its chance to sell because of the system's low install base. Much like many of the titles on that system, though, Nintendo is giving it new life with a Switch port, and they're even packing in a new side game, "Bowser's Fury." It's great to see the game make a return, and it's an all-around amazing package no matter whether you already owned the game.
In general, the "Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury" re-release gets a lift from the fact that the original "Super Mario 3D World" game is still a classic. Even if it wasn't the revolution that something like "Super Mario Odyssey" ended up being, "3D World" succeeded because it was just so damn fun, and that doesn't change here. The increased game speed also makes it a smoother, better experience. The big selling point, especially for people who already own the original game, will definitely be the "Bowser's Fury" side game. What I can report is that even as a side game, it is really awesome. In itself, "Bowser's Fury" is an interesting experience for 3D "Mario," taking the gameplay style of "3D World" and blending it lovingly with the more open-ended style of "Odyssey." The result is a rip-roaring great time that shows the series continuing to flex its experimenting muscles while providing a good appetizer while we wait for Mario's next proper 3D adventure. "Bowser's Fury" also manages to be challenging yet accessible, with appeal to hardcore and casual fans of the series, and the boss fights are wonderful, adding some zany touches to the "Mario" formula.
There's not all that much I can complain about here, though I will point out one thing that probably won't be news to hear: Champion's Road is still a hair-puller. I know 3D "Mario" games love their super challenging last levels and damn, they weren't kidding.
Overall, "Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury" is a wonderful two-for-one package that includes a fantastic port of an excellent 3D "Mario" game, and an extremely fun and experimental side game that I think any "Mario" fan would love. This is a remarkable effort for a Switch re-release of a Wii U game, and a reminder of why this series is so special. If you haven't played "3D World" before, please do yourself a favor and pick this up. Even if you have, I'd still highly recommend adding this to your collection, largely because of how damn fun "Bowser's Fury" is.
Final rating: 10 out of 10 "Fantastic"