Is Bowser's Fury 2-Player? Understanding its Co-op Mode

Mario and Bowser Jr. fighting Fury Bowser together in Bowser's Fury

Unraveling the Co-op Dynamics of Bowser's Fury

When Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury launched on the Nintendo Switch, many fans were excited about the inclusion of the brand-new, open-world Bowser's Fury adventure. A common question quickly emerged: "Is Bowser's Fury 2-player?" The answer is yes, but it's not a traditional two-player Mario experience like the main Super Mario 3D World campaign.

Bowser's Fury features a unique, asymmetrical co-op mode. While Player 1 takes on the role of Mario, exploring the vast Cat Kingdom, collecting Cat Shines, and facing down Fury Bowser, Player 2 steps into the shoes of **Bowser Jr. (or rather, controls his Clown Car and paintbrush, Cappy!)**.

As Bowser Jr., Player 2's role is primarily supportive. Flying in his trusty Clown Car, Bowser Jr. can assist Mario in various ways:

**Attacking Enemies:** Bowser Jr. can automatically or manually attack enemies that pose a threat to Mario.
**Collecting Items:** He can pick up coins, power-ups, and even some Cat Shines that might be out of Mario's immediate reach.
**Revealing Secrets:** Using his paintbrush, Bowser Jr. can paint over question mark blocks or reveal hidden items and platforms.
**Breaking Obstacles:** He can destroy certain breakable blocks, clearing paths for Mario.

This co-op design makes Bowser's Fury an excellent choice for a more casual, family-friendly multiplayer experience, especially when pairing an experienced player with a younger child or someone less familiar with platforming games. Player 2 can contribute significantly without needing the precise platforming skills required to control Mario directly. While it doesn't offer the fully independent character control of Super Mario 3D World's 4-player mode, the assist role adds a fun, dynamic layer to Mario's epic battle against a rampaging Fury Bowser.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can two players both control Mario in Bowser's Fury?

A: No, in Bowser's Fury, only Player 1 controls Mario. Player 2 exclusively controls Bowser Jr.

Q: What exactly does Player 2 do as Bowser Jr.?

A: Player 2, controlling Bowser Jr., can fly around in his Clown Car, attack enemies, collect coins and power-ups for Mario, and reveal hidden blocks or secrets with his paintbrush. It's an assistive role.

Q: Is Bowser's Fury a full co-op experience like Super Mario 3D World?

A: No, it is an asymmetrical assist mode. Super Mario 3D World allows up to four players to control individual characters with full platforming capabilities. Bowser's Fury focuses on Player 1 as the main character, with Player 2 providing support.

Q: Is the Bowser Jr. role good for younger kids?

A: Absolutely! The assist role is often ideal for younger or less experienced players. They can contribute meaningfully to the gameplay without needing the precise timing and movement skills required for platforming as Mario.

Q: Does Player 2 ever get to control Mario?

A: No, in the Bowser's Fury mode, Mario is always controlled by Player 1. The Bowser Jr. role is fixed for Player 2.

Pros and Cons of Bowser's Fury 2-Player Mode

Pros

**Accessibility for All:** Perfect for pairing experienced players with younger or less skilled ones.
**Valuable Assistance:** Bowser Jr. can collect hard-to-reach items, attack enemies, and reveal secrets.
**Dynamic Exploration:** Adds another layer of interaction to the open world.
**Family-Friendly:** Great for cooperative play within a family setting.
**Maintains Focus:** Keeps the primary platforming challenge centered on Player 1.

Cons

**Limited Role:** Player 2's actions are restricted compared to a full character.
**Less Engaging for Veterans:** Experienced players might find the assist role less challenging or stimulating.
**Asymmetrical Gameplay:** Not a traditional "equal" co-op experience.
**Can Reduce Challenge:** Bowser Jr.'s assistance can sometimes make the game significantly easier for Mario.
**Potential for Boredom:** If Player 2 prefers active platforming, they might get bored during certain segments.