During their E3 2012 conference Nintendo admitted that their fans clearly want a Mario game at launch, something that they haven't offered since the DS.  Wii U owners can look forward to picking up New Super Mario Bros. U alongside the console at launch.

New Super Mario Bros. U, like the other games in the New Super Mario Bros. series, offers classic 2D Mario gameplay. The newest title makes use of the Wii U's increased capabilities by amping up the graphics and offering up to five players the chance to join in.

Four players can control Mario, Luigi or Toad(s) with Wii Remotes, much like in New Super Mario Bros. Wii, while one person holding the Wii U GamePad can either help or hinder them by placing blocks. As confirmed last year, although not dsicussed much at E3 2012, players can also select their own Miis to personalise the gaming experience.

The Wii U GamePad's screen displays the image seen on the television and allows you to place blocks by simply tapping on the screen. The blocks vary in colour, and some of them can be broken for coins, but they all work exactly the same.

Multiplayer platform games have thrived on the Wii and while Kirby's Return to Dreamland gave you no choice but to help (and kiss) each other, and Rayman Origins made it tempting to slap each other around, New Super Mario Bros. U really does give you the choice between the two (only with less kissing).

Those using the Wii Remotes can still annoy each other like in New Super Mario Bros. Wii, but the Wii U GamePad holder can also be either a friend or foe. You can place blocks to stop your companions from falling down a gap or block their route so they have no choice but to. It's this choice, and the amusing consequences, that makes the multiplayer in New Super Mario Bros. U so fun.  The ability to place blocks also means trying to get to the top of the end-of-level flagpole much easier, if you're playing with an ally at least.

This usage of the Wii U GamePad is indicative of what could become a wider trend. The Wii and DS bought gaming to the masses and the Wii U GamePad could bring gaming to those who would consider themselves 'non-gamers'. The controls are easy enough for anyone to use, meaning you could still play with even your most reluctant or non-gaming friends or family.

As well as introducing the Wii U GamePad assistance, the latest game in the series also introduces two new outfits for Mario and pals; the squirrel costume and floating Yoshi. You could float with both of them and hover by shaking the Wii Remote, allowing you to get to more difficult to reach places.

Ultimately we only got a small glimpse into New Super Mario Bros. U, with only three levels on show. Fans of the series are bound to enjoy this version and the introduction of the Wii U GamePad provides a fresh twist on the formula.

I have no doubt that this will be a big seller upon release and as well it should be. It's fun, made for multiplayer and a good example of, to use Nintendo's favourite expression at the moment, asymmetric gameplay.