If you watched any advertisement related to Super Mario Odyssey up to the release, then you know about the level New Donk City. If you want my thoughts on the structure and gameplay of Super Mario Odyssey, please read the review linked above first, as that will frame this discussion.
There was one level in Super Mario Odyssey that not only was the best designed, but it actually made the rest of the game worse by comparison, and that is certainly worthy of being studied. In my review, I cited that the gameplay and structure of the levels were at odds with one another, with one major exception. I’ve already posted my review of Super Mario Odyssey and the massive disappointment it was for me, but I want to take a closer look at one area in particular.
