The screen flickers on, bright and colorful. The words “New Super Mario Bros. U” flash in the center before the game logo appears. A cheerful tune plays as Luigi steps onto the stage, red cape fluttering behind him. Bowser stomps in from the side, a fireball already forming between his paws.

Luigi stands ready, and I press the start button. The screen shifts to an overworld map with familiar spots like Rainbow Falls and Lava Land. Each level is packed with new challenges: bouncing on rainbow clouds, riding Goombas, and dodging fireballs while collecting stars.

I navigate through a tricky castle level, avoiding pitfalls and enemies until I reach Bowser’s final room. The red shell shoots out, but I jump just in time to avoid it. Collecting the final star, I land on Bowser Jr., who lets out a loud squawk before zooming up into the sky.

The screen fades to a congratulatory message: “Congratulations! You have completed the final stage.” A new level unlocks with a sign saying “Speed Challenge” — five times faster but no lives. With a grin, I press start again and dive right in.