Super Smash Bros. Direct 12/15/15

This is the final Nintendo Direct concerning Super Smash Bros. for Wii U and 3DS. Let's see what they had to say.

Corrin, from Fire Emblem: Fates is a playable character. His Auto-Blade, the Yato, changes forms into something resembling a chainsaw. This character can also be played as a male and female, like Wii Fit Trainer and Robin. Corrin has the blood of a dragon and can transform into one, or partially into one, for some attacks. The Fire Emblem: Fates theme will be added to the existing Fire Emblem stages. $4.99 - February 2016

Ryoma and Xander, the older brothers in Fire Emblem: Fates, will be trophies in the 3DS version.

Cloud Strife will be available for download soon. His side smash is part of a 3-chain combo. He can fill the Limit Gauge by giving or receiving damage. Once filled, all of his moves will be switched to Limit Break moves, but a Limit Break move can only be used once, as the gauge drains. Cloud will be available later today.

Midgar will be a new stage. Summon Materia will appear here and will change the terrain when a fighter uses them. Ramuh, Ifrit, and Odin will alter the terrain with electricity, fire, and split the stage, respectively. Leviathan will create a flood of water that flows right to left below the stage. Bahamut Zero sends a beam of destruction at the stage. Cloud will be available with this stage for $5.99 on either the 3DS or Wii U or $6.99 for both.

Mii Fighters will get Chocobo hats. Geno will be a Mii Fighter costume. Other upcoming costumes include Takamaru, Bionic Armor, Ashley, Gil, Tails, and Knuckles. On the official website, you can download the Miis featured in the promo videos via QR codes.

Bayonetta will be a playable character. She can activate Witch Time to slow down time with the Down Smash, but only the opponent you're countering. It will last longer if the opponent has higher damage, but shorter if used repeatedly. Both her short-hair and long-hair sprites will be playable. Gomorrah is her Final Smash. She was the #1 choice worldwide on the ballot. She is a combo fighter, but the combos can be slow to start. Hold down the button during and after attacks to fire her guns, but the bullets won't stop enemies. Umbra Clock Tower is a stage that involves a falling clock tower with other platforms falling with it. $5.99 for either the 3DS or the Wii U or $6.99 for both. February 2016

Famicom R.O.B., Ryu, Roy will have Amiibo released on March 18, 2016.

Cloud, Corrin, and Bayonetta will also have Amiibo.

Nintendo Direct 11/12/15

Today is the first Nintendo Direct since the passing of Nintendo President Satoru Iwata. Here's what they had to say.

Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD- The GameCube and Wii title is being remade into HD for the Wii U. Hyrule has been taken over by the Twilight and its citizens have been turned into spirits. Link must dispel the Twilight to return things to normal. A new Amiibo of Wolf Link will be available and the game will support the Link, Toon Link, Zelda, Sheik, and Ganondorf Amiibo. The soundtrack will be a preorder bonus. Some data on the Wolf Link Amiibo can be transferred to the new Zelda game. March 4, 2016

Zelda: Triforce Heroes- A free update will be available, introducing the Den of Trials, an extra 30 stages. You'll have to clear out all of the enemies to move forward. There are two new costumes: Linebeck's Armor, which lets you see inside of treasure chests before opening them, and the Fierce Deity's Armor, which makes your attacks stronger and allows you to fire a beam in four directions.  December 2, 2015.

Pokémon Super Mystery Dungeon- Become a Pokémon in a world of all 720 Pokémon. Solve the mystery of why Pokémon are being turned into stone. The dungeons change each time you enter them. Befriend other Pokémon to allow them to join your team. There will be a 3DS theme of the game for a short time. November 20, 2015.

Splatoon- There are some changes coming to Inkopolis. Some stages will have parts that move up and down. Museum d'Alfonsino is an art and historical museum with a revolving platform. Mahi-Mahi Resort is a poolside stage that morphs into a drier stage halfway through. More gear, including winter items will be added with new updates. Some of the new updates will happen tonight and tomorrow. With the Splatnet website, you can track your stats online. The Treehouse will have a tournament in December with Treehouse staff.

Super Mario Maker- There will be a new portal site that lets you search for courses more easily that you're interested in. It can be accessed by smart phone or PC. Register a course as a favorite and it will appear flagged on the game. December 2015.

Animal Crossing: Amiibo Festival- A party game. Amiibo included in the bundle include Isabelle and Diggby, but only at launch. Use the Amiibo cards to play new game modes. There's also a quiz mode. Wii U November 13, 2015

Mario Tennis: Ultra Smash- You can perform a jump shot to return the ball before it bounces. Do it successfully to get a Smash Point, which allows you to perform an Ultra Smash. In Mega Mode, Toad, the referee, will toss in Mega Mushrooms to make characters temporarily large. Simple mode allows for traditional tennis gameplay. You can play with up to three other players locally or online. The game is Amiibo compatible. Tap them to change their stats and add them as a partner to the game, even online. Wii U November 20, 2015

Xenoblade Chronicles X- There will 4 data packs to download if you purchase the physical game. Wii U December 4, 2015

Nintendo Badge Arcade- This a crane game that allows you to win badges to decorate your home menu. It's free to start, but you have to pay for additional tries after your first 5. Get enough of one type to get a new home menu theme. 3DS eShop

Pokémon Picross- Picross is a game where you have a grid with numbers on it. Select tiles that will ultimately form a picture, in this case, of Pokémon. Complete the picture to capture the Pokémon, who can help you in the next Picross challenge. Picrites help you solve puzzles faster. You can purchase more of them. 3DS eShop Early December

SteamWorld Heist- This is a side-scrolling turn-based shooting adventure where you board, loot, and shoot through enemy spaceships. You have robot allies. Purchase it and get a 3DS home theme. 3DS eShop Holiday

FAST Racing Neo- A 60 frames per second racing game that supports 4 player split screen local play and online play with 7 other players. This is an incredibly fast racing game. Wii U eShop Early December

Typoman- A dark tale of heroes and monsters that uses the power of words to bend the world to your will. Wii U eShop November 19

Yo-Kai Watch is available now.

There will be a new Wii U bundle that includes Super Smash Bros and Splatoon. A new batch of Amiibo will arrive in January.

Pokken Tournament- Tekken gameplay with Pokémon. Shadow Mewtwo will be playable and can Mega Evolve into it's X form. There will be an Amiibo card of Shadow Mewtwo so you can use it immediately. Wii U Spring 2016

Star Fox Zero has vehicles that operate both in the air and on the ground. Use the TV and GamePad screen to navigate. The GamePad will show a cockpit view. Wii U April 22, 2016

Mario and Luigi: Paper Jam- Paper Mario joins the bros to lend his paper skills. They let him slip through narrow gaps and turn into a paper airplane to carry Mario and Luigi. Battle Cards are a new addition that do things such as increase attack and lower enemy experience levels. Character Cards are more powerful than Battle Cards. Scan in Mario, Luigi, Toad, Yoshi, Bowser, and Peach Amiibo from the Mario Party 10 set to get Character Cards. 3DS January 22, 2016

Final Fantasy Explorers- Explore a land of mystical crystals. There's a job system for characters to get new skills. All characters can master each job class. There are costumes of classic Final Fantasy characters. You can play with up to 3 other players in local cooperative play. Trained monsters can fill the remaining slots. All DLC will be included for free. A collector's edition will include an artbook, 20-track soundtrack sampler, 3DS case, and quests to get legendary weapons. 3DS January 26 2016

Fire Emblem Fates- There will two copies of the game: Birthright and Conquest. The endings are different. Buy one and you can download the other for a reduced price. Both games allow you to download a third storyline: Revelation. The special edition will include all 3 games plus an artbook and a carrying case. There will be new DLC maps. 3DS February 19, 2016

Megaman Legacy Collection- This game contains the first 6 games in the series, plus concept art. Challenge Mode features remixed stages from all 6 games. Unlock new challenges with the Megaman and Gold Megaman Amiibo, the later exclusive to the collector's edition. 3DS February 23, 2016

Pokémon Red, Blue, and Yellow- The same games you remember, without the GameBoy Link Cable. The 3DS allows you to battle and trade wirelessly.  3DS eShop February 27, 2016

Hyrule Warrior Legends- The game from the Wii U, with some new content. Toon Link, Tetra, and the King of Hyrule are playable characters, along with Skull Kid, Linkle is a girl from a Cucco-raising village, who bears a strong resemblance to Link. She wields two crossbows. A home theme will be included. 3DS March 25, 2016

Bravely Second: End Layer- 3DS Spring 2016

Dragon Quest VII: Fragments of the Forgotten Past- Explore the past to collect stone shards to discobver the secrets of much changed world. 3DS Summer 2016

Dragon Quest VIII will be released in 2016.

New games coming to Wii U and 3DS:
Hive Jump Wii U Early 2016
Kerbal Space Program Wii U Early 2016
Mighty No.9 Wii U February 16, 2016, 3DS Q2 2016
Lego Marvel's Avengers Wii U 3DS January 26, 2016
Project X Zone 2 3DS February 6, 2016
Terarria Wii U 3DS Early 2016

Super Smash Bros- Cloud from Final Fantasy VII will be a playable character. There will be a special Bbroadcast in December 2015.

Nintendo E3 Digital Event 6/16/15

It's E3 and time for Nintendo to show off what's coming up.

Star Fox: Zero- This is a new Star Fox game. You can aim using the gyroscope controls on the GamePad, which features the view from the cockpit. Your vehicles can fly and move on land. It features plane-flying controls, so pushing down on the Control Stick will move the plane up and vice versa. There are multiple vehicles you can use.

Super Mario Maker- Build your own Mario levels to share globally. You can stack enemies and place enemies underwater. Tap an Amiibo and when you get a Mystery Mushroom, Mario will turn into the character. There's also an 8-bit Mario Amiibo. - Wii U September 11, 2015

Skylanders: Super Chargers- This game will feature vehicles as well as characters. Donkey Kong and Bowser will be playable. They will work with Skylander Portals and also work as Amiibo.

The Legend of Zelda: Triforce Heroes- This is a top-down Zelda game where you can join with up to  two friends to clear challenges and puzzles. Your outfit determines what abilities you can use, such as the Spin Attack and using Bombs. The three of you can form a three-man totem by picking each other up. You can play multiplayer online. - Fall 2015 3DS

Hyrule Warriors Legends- This is a reimagining of the Wii U with all of the DLC characters plus characters from Wind Waker. -3DS Q1 2016

Metroid Prime: Federation Force- Play with up to three other players in space battles. Blast Ball will allow for 3 vs. 3 space sports combat.

Fire Emblem: Fates- This is the new Fire Emblem game previously announced. 3DS 2016

Shin Megami Tensei X Fire Emblem- Chrom will be a playable character. Characters can switch between normal and Mirage forms. - 2016

Xenoblade Chronicles X- Mankind flees Earth to a new planet and must survive its harsh environment, as well as attacks from aliens. - Wii U December 4, 2015

Animal Crossing: Happy Home Designer- Work for Tom Nook and Nook's homes to take requests to decorate other villager's homes. Scan in card of villagers to bring them into the game. September 25, 2015

Animal Crossing: Amiibo Festival- This is an Animal Crossing Party game for the Wii U. Use Animal Crossing Amiibo as play pieces. - Wii U Holiday 2015

Yoshi's Wooly World- This game will have plush Amiibo Yoshi. Unravel and knit platforms. When an enemy is swallowed, it turns into a ball of yarn instead of an egg. How you play determines the challenge. You can also play cooperatively or competitively with friends. Use other Amiibo to turn Yoshi into a themed Yoshi, such as a Mario or Samus-themed Yoshi. Poochie will also be in the game. - Wii U October 16, 2015

Yokai Watch- Find Yo-kai, monsters that are hiding around town. Battle the evil ones with the ones you befriend.- 3DS Holiday 2015

Mario and Luigi: Paper Jam- This combines the Mario and Luigi games with Paper Mario, so there are two Marios and two Luigis, as well as doubles of other characters. They will team up for powerful attacks. -Spring 2016 3DS

Mario Tennis: Ultra Smash- The Mega Mushroom can power up players by increasing their size and strength. - Wii U Holiday 2015

Nintendo Direct Micro 6/1/15

Nintendo has released a shorter Direct today. Here's what they had to say.

Chibi-Robo: Zip Lash- This is a new game in development. It's a side-scrolling platforming game, where Chibi-Robo can use his plug and cord as a whip to defeat enemies and reach platforms. The whip attack can be charged up as a Zip Lash to destroy large blocks. Grab Boost Balls to extend the reach of the whip. Aim the whip at certain angles to make it bounce off walls. There will be a Chibi-Robo amiibo that will only come as part of a bundle. Tap the amiibo to make Chibi-Robo turn into Super Chibi-Robo, with improved speed and whip reach. At the end of a stage, the score can be saved to the amiibo to level it up and acquire new items. -3DS October

Dr. Mario: Miracle Cure- Play as Dr. Mario or Dr. Luigi to match four viruses and capsules of the same color to clear them. This time, there's a Miracle Cure that appears when you fill a gauge on the side. The Miracle Cure can do one of many actions: clear all capsules and viruses of the same color, clear an entire column, or eradicate surrounding capsules and viruses. There are new medicines to interrupt your opponent in multiplayer mode. They can speed up drop rate, reverse controls, or prevent capsule rotation. All Miracle Cures can be turned off. There will be global internet multiplayer, as well as local multiplayer, including download play. You can also cooperate in Virus Buster mode to destroy viruses. -3DS 3Shop June 11

Pokémon Super Mystery Dungeon- Become a Pokémon and be transported into a world with only Pokémon. Make new friends as you embark on an adventure to save the world. Choose from over 20 Pokémon to start as. All other Pokémon, including legendaries, will be there. -3DS Winter 2015

Mario & Sonic at the Rio Olympic Games- The next Summer Olympics will take place in Rio, Brazil. The games you can play include soccer. This game is for both the Wii U and the 3DS and will have some version-exclusive games. The Wii U game has Rugby, a sport new to the Olympics. The 3DS game has Golf, which is making a reappearance after over 100 years.

Splatoon- A new weapon has been added to the game. The N-Zap 85 is low-powered rapid-fire shooter that quickly recharges the Echolocator special weapon. It also includes Splat Bombs. A new free map, Port Mackerel, will be available at 7 pm Pacific Time today. Also available today at 7 pm, Ranked Battles will go live. Enough people reached level 10 over the weekend to unlock it.

Art Academy: Home Studio- This expansion pack will include new lessons, 3D landscapes to draw, and the ability to upload time-lapse video to YouTube. -WiiU eShop June 25

Project Treasure now has a debut gameplay trailer on Nintendo's YouTube channel.

The Nintendo World Championships 2015 will begin June 14 at 3 pm Pacific Time.

Little Battlers Experience- The popular anime and action figures get a new game on the 3DS. Customize your LBX and battle with up to five other players via local wireless. -3DS August 21

Puzzle and Dragons- In the Super Mario Edition, after you clear the 8 worlds, another 8 will unlock. You can also unlock new characters, such as Peach, Rosalina, Bower, Bowser Jr., and the Koopalings.  Puzzle and Dragons Z will get weekly distributions. You can reach new dungeons to get new monsters, starting now. There's also a second continent to unlock.

Bravely Second: End Layer- Return as a new protagonist and catch up with characters from the first game. Anya has been kidnapped and Yu, the protagonist, must save her. Join up with other characters in some deep battle gameplay. -3DS 2016

Splatoon Direct - 5/7/15

Nintendo has more information about the upcoming game, Splatoon. Here's what they had to say.

There's some new information on the Inklings. They move much faster in Squid form, but the Squid forms and Humanoid forms jump at equal height. The Squids can jump much farther if they build up some momentum. If there is a trail of their ink going up a wall, the Squids can swim up the wall to reach the top, unless there's a barrier at the top. The Humanoid form is the only form that can shoot ink. Use the GamePad's gyroscope to change camera angles.

In turf wars, the Inklings compete in teams of 4 to cover the arena with their ink. A cat named Judd will determine the winner of each bout. Inklings will slow down drastically in the ink of the enemy. If they stay in it too long, they'll explode and respawn at a respawn point. They can then select a teammate's location and Super Jump over to their teammate. Points will be awarded during each match, which can be used as currency. Points also determine how quickly one level's up.

Inkopolis is the main hub of Splatoon. Inklings can shop here for fashionable gear and weapons. Jelly Fresh sells clothing, mostly shirts. Shrimp Kicks sells shoes. Cooler Heads sells headgear, glasses and other accessories. All of the gear affect an Inkling's stats. Ammo Knights sells weapons. Level up to improve each store's selection. Check out the other Inklings in the plaza to check out their gear and learn what their general strategies are. If you like something, you can special order it. Check out the icons on each piece of gear. They provide abilities such as saving ink, charging up special weapons, faster respawns, faster ink recovery, improved bomb range, and quicker Super Jumps. They can also improve attack and defense powers, and speed, as well as alert you to bombs. Each piece of gear has a star rating that determines the number of slots of abilities each gear can hold, up to four. The main slot will contain an ability of your choice, but the other slots will fill up randomly. Use the same piece of gear repeatedly to level it up and improve its abilities. A guy named Spike can increase the number of gear slots or change the random abilities to a new set of random abilities. This can allow you to fully optimize your gear. It will cost you a Super Sea Snail, which is difficult to find. You can also pick up your special orders from Spike.

There are three main types of weapons. The main weapons are Shooters, Chargers, and Rollers. Shooters are short-range weapons that allow for rapid fire to cover territory and enemies in ink. Chargers require charging up, but will unleash tons of ink in a single shot. These are long range weapons. Some of them have scopes, which makes sniping easier. Rollers allow you to plow forward while marking territory and steamrolling enemies. Shake them to splatter ink. Sub Weapons are weapons that use up a larger amount of ink than main weapons. The Suction Bomb will stick to a surface and detonate shortly afterward. Burst Bombs use less ink and explode on contact, but are less powerful. The Point Sensor is a support tool that locates hidden enemies, marks them, and shares the information with teammates. The Ink Mine is a tool that's invisible to enemies, but explodes after a short time or when an enemy makes contact. The Squid Beacon allows fallen teammates to Super Jump to the beacon's location, not just the locations of teammates. The Disruptor slows down enemies and lowers their abilities. Special Weapons can only be used after filling a gauge by covering the with ink. The Inkstrike is a rocket that will launch to a location of your choice (select using the GamePad) and unleash an ink tornado. The Echolocator temporarily locates and marks all of the enemies on the field for all of your team to see. The Bubbler creates a protective bubble that deflects enemy attacks. Approach teammates to give them a bubble shield as well. The Kraken will temporarily turn you into an invincible giant squid.

In the plaza is a manhole cover. You may see an old man named Cap'n Cuttlefish. Follow him to a new world to go on solo missions against the Octarian. You'll done a Hero Suit and enter the hideouts of the Octarians through tea kettle-like structures. The Octarians have tons of gadgets to try and defeat you. Use your ink and Squid form to navigate the hideout, defeat the Octarians, and complete challenges. You can find items on the battlefield, such as improved armor, weapons, and keys. Power Eggs can be found on the battlefield to improve weapons. There are items called Sunken Scrolls in each stage. They reveal information about the area's secret past.

The Battle Dojo allows you to train and battle against friends casually, as well as compete in local multiplayer matches. The goal is to pop the most balloons, with double points awarded in the last minute. Taking damage will reduce your point total. One player uses the GamePad while the other uses the TV and another controller, such as the Wii U Pro Controller. To compete in online multiplayer matches, go to Inkopolis Tower. Regular Battles are Turf Wars. After each match, the teams are shuffled. You can join matches with friends easily, but you may be playing against them. The battles will consist of two stages, but the stage combinations are swapped every 4 hours. This allows you to select the ideal weapons for each stage. Ranked Battles include a couple of modes. Splat Zone is like a Turf War, but on a smaller designated section of the map, making battles intense. Players are based on skill alone, so wins improve your rank and losses make your rank worse. The scale ranges from C- to A+. Players of similar ranks will face off against each other. You can unlock Ranked Battles when you reach level 10 in Regular Battles. Once enough players have reached level 10 globally, it will be unlocked for all.

After launch, free update events will take place, such as the addition of new stages, weapons, and gear. One of the updates is a new mode for Ranked Battles called Tower Control. Stand on the tower as it moves on a rail towards the goal. Whoever is on the tower is a constant target. In August 2015, there will be an update that enhances matchmaking. You can fight on a team with three other friends against another team of four, or gather eight friends and fight with each other.

In the plaza is an arcade machine. It lets you play 8-bit squid games while you wait for a match. Splatoon is amiibo-compatible. Each of the three amiibo contain 20 missions. The girl Inkling has Charger-only missions, the boy Inkling has Roller-only missions, and the Squid has Kraken and limited ink missions. Your rewards include more gear and a bonus arcade game for clearing all challenges.

Splatfest will include special nation-wide matches. Pick a side, such as Cats or Dogs, and duke it out. Splatfest battles have their own ranking system separate from Ranked Battles. If you do well, you can get Super Sea Snails to trade to Spike for improving your gear's ability slots. The first Splatfest starts June 20 at 6 am Pacific Time and ends on June 21 6 am Pacific Time. The winning team will get Super Sea Snails.

The Splatoon Global Testfire is a free demo you can download now. You can play globally on May 8 from 8 pm to 9 pm Pacific Time and on May 9 from 4 am to 5 am, then noon to 1 pm, Pacific Time. The Nintendo Treehouse will be competing in matches, as well as other development staff, who will be wearing white lab coats. If you preorder or purchase the game from Gamestop, you'll get download codes for Splatoon costumes for your Super Smash Bros. Mii characters.

Xenoblade Chronicles X Direct - 4/24/15

Nintendo has more information on the sequel to the hit Xenoblade Chronicles. Here's what they had to say.

Planet Earth was destroyed in a battle between two alien species. Humanity has survived to reach planet Mira, but the threat of alien attacks still exists. There is a new safe haven called New Los Angeles, a vibrant city. You'll design a character and join a team called B.L.A.D.E. to take on missions to improve life, gather resources, and save other survivors.

There are a few continents on Mira. You can visit all of them from the start, if you can survive their terrains. Primordia has rolling plains, large bodies of water, and tall mountains. Noctilum has many waterways and glowing plants. Oblivia is a massive desert with a large oasis in the center. Sylvalum is an icy tundra. Cauldros is a lava pit with a large volcano.

Lifeholds are parts of the White Whale, the ship humanity used to flee earth's destruction. They broke off when the ship was destroyed. Find them and save the survivors inside them.

The map uses the GamePad. Probes can be deployed around Mira. They provide a spawn point and information, such as treasure and creatures. They can also tap into Miranium veins, used as a fuel. They can also be used for fast-travel.

There are many creatures on Mira. Some will ignore you and others will attack. Some should not be engaged until you're more experienced. The Nopon make a return. The Monon are an advanced race that build technology. The Prone are an alien race bent on humanity's destruction.

Nav Balls will guide you to your quest objectives, but they move quickly. You can deploy as many as you like. Skells are flying mechs that you can command to travel quickly all over Mira. They will use fuel when fighting and flying. Refill them by exiting the Skell or using Miranium, the Skell's fuel. They can also travel on land and be used in combat. Hopper Cams are cameras that allow you to see the entire environment from an overhead view.

In combat, you'll have special attacks called Artes. You'll get a variety of weapons that will be used during your special attacks, which will switch automatically when you change which artes you're using. Some special attacks will have a cool-down time. If you wait to use an arte, it can double in power. Artes with green rings around them are the ones your teammates are calling you to use. Special attacks can be used in combos to deal more damage. Some will cost Tension Points, but they will be more powerful or have special abilities, like reviving teammates. You can also auto-attack. If there's a line between you and the enemy, they are focused on you.

Enemies have icons that will let you know what will attract their attention and draw them into attack you. Some enemies will attack you if they see you, or hear you, or a combination of things. Some enemies will not attack you, and have an icon to indicate that. However, some will attack if you're in a Skell. Some enemies have target points you can attack so they can no longer use the weapons attached to those points.

There is a day cycle and weather patterns in the game. Some enemies and people will only be out at certain times. Rest stops allow you to manipulate time.

Each teammate has a class and inner class. Class determines your attack style and weapons. Inner class is your level. Skell attacks are based on what you equip on them. Teammates can attack when you're battling in a Skell and get a defense boost. You can catch enemies when they're toppled so you hold them while your teammates do extra battles. Skells can be destroyed. Jump out in time and everything will be fine. If you jump out a little late, you'll get a mark on your insurance. Get too many marks and you'll lose your Skell and have to buy a new one. As you can imagine, they're expensive. You'll also collect more Skells and keep them in your garage. Extra Skells can be assigned to teammates.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode Bonus-14. Episode 3 Prologue

Captain Toad finds himself alone in the Episode 3 Prologue. Grab some coins and climb the ladder. Walk along the edge of the rock. A footlight will illuminate, allowing you to cross to the other side without walking around. There's a hidden Gold Mushroom in the middle. Climb the next ladder to the Star. Wingo appears, still holding onto Toadette.

Special Challenge: Find the hidden Gold Mushroom.

The last level is particularly challenging. I will post about it when I have cleared it.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode Bonus-13. Episode 2 Prologue

Captain Toad finds himself at the start of Episode 2. Follow Toadette towards the Star. When you're on the same level as the Star, drop down to a mossy, broken pillar. There's a hidden Gold Mushroom there. Grab the Star and Wingo appears. He takes Captain Toad away.

Special Challenge: Find the hidden Gold Mushroom.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode Bonus-12. Episode 1 Prologue

Captain Toad finds himself in the prologue of Episode 1, where he meets Toadette and gets the first Star. Follow Toadette to the Star. Under the rock, in the small alcove, is a hidden Gold Mushroom. Get the Star and Wingo appears and carries off Toadette.

Special Challenge: Find the hidden Gold Mushroom.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode Bonus-11. Mummy-Me and Pyropuff Peak

You'll need 185 gems to unlock this level.

Toadette finds herself Draggadon's cave. There are invisible coins along the wall near where you start. Once again, you'll want to grab as many coins as you can while dodging Draggadon's flames and Mummy-Me. This means you'll have to keep moving behind anything you can use as a shield. If the area behind the shield is narrow, hug the walls as much as possible so you don't run into Mummy-Me. There are many coins in front of the moving ladder. Keep climbing up and down the ladder to avoid taking damage. If you do, pull the nearby plant a couple of times, then run away, then come back for the Mushroom. Mummy-Me will disappear when you start climbing the ladder to the Star. It will reappear when you land on Draggadon's nose, so don't dawdle in getting the Star.

Special Challenge: Collect 170 coins.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode Bonus-10. Mummy-Me on Drop-Road Dash

You need 175 gems to unlock this level.

Toadette finds herself on Drop-Road Dash. When you're ready, drop down to the donut lifts. Mummy-Me will start following you. Dodge the Biddybuds and grab as many coins as you can. If you need a short break to walk on solid ground, be sure to keep moving. Towards the end is a tall stack of coins. Walk in a circle or figure eight to grab the coins while dodging Mummy-Me. Near the end is a boost pad and a narrow path to the Star. Near the Star, you'll find some coins.

Special Challenge: Collect 190 coins.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode Bonus-9. Mummy-Me on Flip Panel Footpath

You need 165 gems to unlock this level.

Toadette finds herself on Flip Panel Footpath. Grab the invisible coins next to the railing and step on the switch. When you start walking on the path, a trail of smoke will follow you until it transforms into a mummified Toad who follows your every move, much like the Cosmic Clones in Super Mario Galaxy 2. The panel will take you to the lower portion of the tower with the Star. There are many coins here, so double back to get all of them. Be careful not to double back into Mummy-Me. Step on the switch when you have all of the coins. Grab the coins on the donut lifts as you follow the path. The path ends on a magic carpet with many invisible coins. Walk in a circle to get them all. Near the nearby tower are two switches. Activate the switch on the left and follow it to the ladder on the tower. Climb the ladder and grab the pickax. Turn around to attack Mummy-Me with pickax to make it disappear for a while. Pick all of the plants with the pickax to collect the coins. Drop back down to the switches. Activate the left one again and follow it to the other side of the tower for a ladder to some coins in the tower. When both switches can be pressed again, press the right switch, wait a short while, then press the left one. Follow the path on the right to some coins on some donut lifts, then transfer to the other path. Run and cut as many corners as you can, as the path will disappear quickly. Mummy-Me will be right behind you. The path will take you to the Star. If you need more coins, there are some invisible ones on the tower's outer ledge.

Special Challenge: Collect 160 coins.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode Bonus-8. Toad Brigade to Magikoopa Keep!

You'll need 190 gems to unlock this level.

The Toad Brigade is scattered all over Magikoopa Keep. In this case, it is best to ignore the Toad Brigade and reach the top of the tower without them, as they are a huge liability with Magikoopas attacking you. Grab as many coins as you can, especially around the tower's grounds. Use the green pipe to reach the first floor. Blue Toad is towards the front side of the tower, by the wall. Take the green pipe around the corner to the second floor, pick the plants to the right for coins, then go left. Pick the plant for the key, then toss it on the fan. Go through the yellow pipe and move the fan up so you can grab the key. Also use the fan to reach more coins. The key unlocks the door Green Toad is behind. Go through the red pipe to the fourth floor, drop down to the P-Switch, then go through the tunnel, collecting the many coins inside. Go back to the fourth floor, then through the blue pipe. Walk behind the green pipe to find an invisible Gold Mushroom. Take the green pipe to the top of the tower. Use the plant with unlimited turnips to defeat the Magikoopas. This will make the center part of the tower rise up, revealing Yellow Toad. Now that the Magikoopas have been defeated, get the Toad Brigade, then drop down to the clouds below. This will let you inside the tower for a lot of coins. When you're ready, go to the top of the tower and take the elevator for four to the Star.

Special Challenge: Collect 240 coins.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode Bonus-7. Toad Brigade to Bullet Bill Base!

You need 180 gems to unlock this level.

The Toad Brigade is scattered all over Bullet Bill Base. You'll want to grab as many coins as you can. Walk around and spin the gear. One of the staircases has a pile of coins in it. Walk up the stairs, dodge the Bullet Bills, then aim the Bill Blasters at the nearby bricks. Let them fire once to break them, then spin them so they're aimed at the bricks on the staircase. While they break those bricks, grab Blue Toad. Spin the gear again so the Bullet Bills are aimed at the Flaptors flying near that same staircase. Once you defeat the Flaptors, aim the Bullet Bills away from the base. Walk down the stairs and spin the gear so you can walk up the other set of stairs. Drop down and you'll find Green Toad. Touch the item blocks to get the coins and Mushroom. Walk down the stairs and carefully pass the Bill Blaster to reach the gear. Spin it to aim it at the bricks on the platform moving in the lava. Once the bricks have been destroyed, cross the lava using the platform to reach Yellow Toad. Return to the gear and spin it so you can go through the archway in the staircase. Go through the staircase to another gear. Spin it to find a Gold Mushroom and the Star. Grab all of the coins on your way to get the Star.

Special Challenge: Collect 100 coins.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode Bonus-6. Toad Brigade to Trick-Track Hall!

You'll need 170 gems to unlock this level.

It's time to reunite with the Toad Brigade again. Collect as many coins as you can. As before, move the arrow platforms so the Spike destroys the barriers in front of you and below you. Drop down and go around the corner, heading away from the Spike. You'll find Blue Toad over here. Go around the corner and defeat the Piranha Sprouts. Underneath the platform the Spike is standing on, there is a plant with a key. Stand on the touchstone and lower it to reach the locked door. Green Toad is behind the door. Return using the touchstone and have the nearby Spike destroy the barrier. Quickly and carefully cross the spikes and move in a slight circle to make sure all Toad Brigade members are on the touchstone. Raise the touchstone and move the arrow platforms so you can reach Yellow Toad near the Spike. Drop down carefully to the spiked platform, then drop down to safety. There's a hidden Gold Mushroom nearby. Grab the coins in the area before taking the elevator for four up to the Star.

Special Challenge: Collect 150 coins.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode Bonus-5. Toad Brigade to Mushroom Mesa!

You need 160 gems to unlock this level.

Captain Toad and the rest of the Toad Brigade are here, but they were separated. As Captain Toad, you must round up the Toad Brigade, then get the Star. Captain Toad can take damage, but you'll lose a life if any of the Toad Brigade members take damage. Next to you is a hidden Gold Mushroom. Blue Toad is just ahead, at the corner. Both Toads will wave to each other and Blue Toad will start following you. Grab as many coins as you can, which includes defeating enemies. Go into the tunnels in the rock, using the left arch. Follow the path down into the corner to find Yellow Toad. Stand in the touchstone after circling around so all Toads fit, then raise it. Go past the Shy Guys and drop under the rock near the touchstones. Manipulate the touchstones so you can go underground to find Green Toad. Carefully go over to the rock where the Flaptors are and quickly grab as many coins as you can from the plant. Go up to the top of the touchstones, then use the elevator for four to reach the Star.

Special Challenge: Collect 90 coins.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode Bonus-4. Clear Pipe Cruise

You'll need 90 gems to unlock this level.

Captain Toad finds himself in an area with many clear pipes, Piranha Plants, and Fire Piranhas. Go through the first few sets of clear pipes until you reach an area with a nearby cloud. Stand in front of the pipe near the cloud to lure the Fire Piranhas into breathing fire into the pipe. This will destroy the spike balls inside. Go through the pipe for a Gold Mushroom. Up ahead is a large pipe with a pickax, some spike balls, and a warp box at one end. If you like, grab the pickax so you can destroy the spike balls and get more coins. Warp to the next area and hit the POW Block by touching the GamePad. You'll get a Mushroom from the item block above. There's a ramp leading up. Drop from it to get rid of the Piranha Plant in front of a pipe so you can get more coins and reach the top without dealing with more Piranha Plants. At the top is a chain of Fuzzies moving through the clear pipes. Use the clear pipes to carefully cross the gap so you can reach the clear pipe cannon.

The cannon will take you to an area with a few more Fuzzies and some clouds. Use the pipes to reach the moving clouds above, then go through the warp box. This will warp you higher up. There's a Fire Piranha in front of a clear pipe. Lure it into breathing fire into the pipe to clear out the spike balls, then go through the pipe for a 1-up. Slide down the hill with the many Piranha Plants down to a complex clear pipe network with Fuzzies. There's a Key Coin at the base. Pick it up, then go through the pipe with good timing. The other four Key Coins are at the top parts of the pipe network. With careful timing, move through the loops, going in the same direction the Fuzzies are. Once you grab all of the Key Coins, the Warp Box at the top will be unlocked and you can warp to the Green Star.

Special Challenge: Collect the Gold Mushroom.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode Bonus-3. Shadow-Play Alley

You need 65 gems to unlock this level.

Captain Toad finds himself in an area full of shadows. Pick up a Potted Piranha Plant. Follow the shadows towards the screen for a 1-up. Up ahead are Fire Piranhas. Have the Potted Piranha Plant defeat them for you. Go through the door to enter the shadows. Here, you'll find Fuzzies and a giant Piranha Plant. Go through the door to exit the shadows. Pick up another Potted Piranha Plant and use it to defeat the pink enemies that fit into the wall. On the other side is a Gold Mushroom. Keep going and walk behind a wall to find the Green Star near Bowser's shadow.

Special Challenge: Collect the Gold Mushroom.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode Bonus-2. Conkdor Canyon

You'll need 35 gems to unlock this level. If you've cleared all three other episodes completely, you should have 192.

As in Super Mario 3D World, there are several Conkdors here. The first one you see is surrounded by coins. Ahead are platforms moving in and out of the wall. There's a ladder here which allows you to reach the top of the wall. There's a clear pipe that will drop you down to the wall behind the first Conkdor, which has many coins. Move forward and you'll find a clear pipe that will take you to the next area. Use the pipe to get around the Conkdor surrounded by quicksand, then run past the four Conkdors lining the path. Ahead is the oasis, with some coins in the pool. Cross the shifting path, then cross the narrow path with the Conkdors. On the other side is a Conkdor surrounded by bricks. Lure the Conkdor into breaking the brick in front of the pipe. Go through the pipe for a Gold Mushroom. Drop down and go to the other side of the ramp for a Conkdor and the Green Star.

Special Challenge: Collect the Gold Mushroom.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode Bonus-1. Super Bell Hill

Captain Toad finds himself in the Sprixie Kingdom, where there are no gems. As he can't jump, there are some places that are out of reach. You can touch the blocks on the GamePad to break them or get items from them. There are some invisible coins here. Go up the hill and past the Goombas to reach the clear pipe cannon to the next area. Go to where the Cat Goombas are and break the crates. One of them has a 1-up. On the bridge, towards the back is a ladder to the area below the bridge. Here you'll find a Gold Mushroom. Use the Warp Box to return. Take the clear pipe up to the next area. Get the Green Star at the end to clear the level.

Special Challenge: Collect the Gold Mushroom.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-28. Wingo's Whackdown

Wingo once again has Toadette. He'll flap his wings to create gusts of wind to blow Captain Toad away. Climb the ladder and you'll find some invisible coins in the corner. Walk up the ramp. When Wingo moves the crates with the ladder, go down the ramp to the two piles of coins. There's an invisible Gold Mushroom there, but you may need to wait until Wingo moves to get it. Climb up the ladder and you'll find some spikes and Piranha Sprouts. Keep climbing to the top. Let Wingo move the large set of crates over the spikes so you can get the first gem through the gap in the crates. Run over the crates, get the coins, and launch from the clear pipe cannon.

You'll land near the Toad Brigade. Blue Toad has a Mushroom for you. Go up the ladder, where Wingo's waiting for you. There are a couple of turnips near the wall. There's a tall stack of crates with a ladder. Also in the area are three Piranha Sprouts and lots of coins. When Wingo's not flapping his wings, climb to the top of the ladder, then drop down to where the Piranha Sprouts are to get the coins and get rid of the them. Climb back up the ladder and run over to the gear. Spin it to rotate part of the central tower. Be sure to grab the large pile of coins as well as go to the empty ledge opposite the gear. There's an invisible Gold Mushroom here. Let Wingo move the crates with the ladder so you can get the second gem, then spin the gear so that no air can reach the crates with the ladder. Climb the tall ladder. Get rid of the Piranha Sprout on the ground, then climb the nearby ladder. Carefully cross to the crate, then let Wingo move it. Get rid of the Piranha Sprout up here. Use the crates to reach the Mushroom, then cross the larger set of crates to the other side of the wall. Use the crates to cross the gap to the third gem. Drop down and run for the clear pipe cannon.

The cannon launches you to Wingo's pile of treasure. This time, Wingo summons lightning, which destroys the barriers around the tower. Wingo's attacks are the same as before. After two hits with the turnips, Toadette will throw a Mushroom or a 1-up to you. After the third hit with the turnip, Wingo eats it and falls. Toadette and the Star fly up and land in the treasure. Pull her out of the treasure and grab the Star.

Special Challenge: Collect 220 coins.

After Toadette and Captain Toad get the Star, they hop in the mine cart while the credits roll. At the end, Captain Toad spies a Green Star shooting across the sky and he takes off after it, leaving Toadette behind. This leads to the start of Super Mario 3D World, where Captain Toad follows after Mario and company into the Sprixie Kingdom. This also unlocks the Bonus Episode, if you haven't already unlocked it, and a new page in it.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-27. Scalding Scaffold Sinkhole

You need 155 gems to unlock this level. I have 186.

Toadette finds herself on a metal scaffold. Approach the ladder and the structure will start sinking. There are many Piranha Sprouts on the scaffold, as well as coins. Collect as many as you can. The first gem is on a ledge with rails. Pick the turnips and Piranha Sprouts to grab the stacks of coins without having to run for them. Pass the next ladder and go around it for a pile of coins. There's another pile of coins on a ledge similar to the one where you found the first gem. Drop down past the spikes to find more coins. Go past the next set of spikes and drop down the ladder for a large amount of coins. Go through the gap in the pillars in front of the ladder to find a ramp towards the top of the structure. Drop down and you'll find the second gem. Climb up the ladder next to the spikes for two plants with lots of coins. Just up ahead on a ledge, guarded by some Piranha Sprouts, is a plant with the third gem. Climb the tall ladder. At the top, are two plants with many coins and the Star.

After Toadette gets the Star, Wingo carries her off.

Special Challenge: Collect 200 coins.

Nintendo Direct 4/1/15

Happy April Fools Day! Let's see what Nintendo has to say.

Super Smash Bros.- Mewtwo will soon be available as a download starting April 28. You can purchase it for one version for $3.99 or for both versions for $4.99 if you didn't register both version of the game. If you did, it will be available April 15. It can Mega Evolve. It will also be available with an update which includes downloadable content, adjusted character balance, and the ability to share Mii Fighters, replays, custom stages, and photos on the Wii U version. Mii Fighters will get costumes, some of which are inspired by certain games, including Legend of Zelda and Mega Man. Lucas will also be a playable character via downloadable content, likely in June. At smashbros.com, a Smash Bros. Fighter Ballot, you can put in your vote for a new character to be added to the roster or future rosters. As for Amiibo, here are the next waves: May 29- Charizard, Pac-Man, Wario, Jigglypuff, Ness, Greninja, Lucina, and Robin. In July, Dark Pit and Palutena. In September, Bowser Jr., Dr. Mario, Captain Olimar, Zero-Suit Samus, and Ganondorf. Amiibo for Mewtwo and Lucas will be released in the future.

Amiibo Tap: Nintendo's Greatest Bits- This is a free downloadable title that allows you to tap Amiibo to the GamePad to view highlights from certain games. The highlights are 3 minutes long. Tap the same Amiibo again to switch scenes in the game. The title associated with a particular Amiibo is randomly generated the first time you tap that Amiibo. There are many classic games to sample. -Spring 2015 Wii U eShop

Mario Maker- This game allows you to design Mario levels by dragging characters and features onto the screen. You can switch between four modes: the original Super Mario Bros., Super Mario World, Super Mario Bros. 3, and New Super Mario Bros. You can upload your creations for the rest of the world to see. 2015 marks Mario's 30th anniversary. - September Wii U

Yoshi's Wooly World- This action game takes place in a wool world. There are two modes: Classic Mode and Mellow Mode. Classic Mode plays more like traditional Yoshi games, while Mellow Mode makes things easier with you controlling Winged Yoshi. You can switch between modes at any time. This game will have its own Amiibo that are made of wool. They come in three colors- green, pink, and blue. Tapping them will allow you to play with two Yoshis. Turn your new ally into a yarn ball to throw at enemies, which you can also do in multiplayer. -Wii U Fall 2015

Splatoon- Two more modes have been announced. Ranked Battle is an online mode, like Turf Wars, but with rankings and different rules. In Splat Zones, you'll fight over a designated part of the map. In the Battle Dojo, you and another player will battle against each other: one on the GamePad and the other on the TV. The goal is to pop more balloons than your opponent. Inkling Amiibo will be available at launch. The Amiibo will unlock special missions specific to the Amiibo. Completing challenges will unlock exclusive gear. They will come in a triple pack of an Inkling Boy, Girl, and Squid or the Inkling Boy and Girl can be purchased separately. -Wii U May 29

Wii U Virtual Console- Nintendo is adding N64 and Nintendo DS games to the Virtual Console. For the DS games, you'll have many options to choose from in terms of screen layouts. For the N64, you can choose your control scheme. The GamePad will rumble with games that are Rumble Pak compatible. N64 games will typically cost $9.99-11.99, unless you transferred the game from the Wii, which will cost $2 each. Nintendo DS games will typically cost $6.99-$9.99. Yoshi's Island DS and Super Mario 64 are available now for $9.99 each. On April 9, Yoshi Touch & Go and Wario Ware: Touched! will be available for $9.99 each. Also for $9.99 each, you can get Donkey Kong 64 on April 16, Mario Kart DS on April 23, and Paper Mario on April 30.

Adventures of Pip- This game features Pip, a single pixel that can absorb the pixels of enemies he defeats to transform into three forms. Save villagers to open new shops and defeat the Skeleton Queen. -Wii U eShop May 2015

Octodad: Dadliest Catch- Octodad is an octopus trying to remain disguised as a human. He must remain undercover, which is difficult as your tentacles are unwieldly. There's a four-player co-op mode where each player controls a tentacle. -Wii U eShop Summer 2015

Mutant Mudds: Super Challenge- There are over 40 new levels, which have you switching between the foreground and the background. Buy it for one console and you can download it on the other for free. There's a loyalty discount for those with the original Mutant Mudds game. -Wii U and 3DS eShop June 2015

Don't Starve: Giant Edition- Survive in a wilderness of danger, science, and magic by farming, hunting, and crafting. The worlds are randomly generated and permadeath is a feature. Buy one copy and get a free download code to share with a friend. -Wii U May 2015

Other indie titles coming to the eShop include:
Wii U: forma.8, Affordable Space Adventures, STARWHAL, Never Alone, Ninja Pizza Girl, Antipole DX, Life of Pixel, BADLAND: Game of the Year Edition, Slain!, Runbow, Back to Bed, Space Hulk, Race the Sun, Dot Arcade, Swords & Soldiers II, Toto Temple Deluxe, The Bridge, Shutshimi, Nova-111, Windup Knight 2
3DS: Dementium: Remastered, Antipole DX, DOOORS, Lionel City Builder 3D: Rise of the Rails, Shutshimi

Shin Megami Tensei x Fire Emblem- The characters have an everyday life mixed with a secret life o f fantasy.

Fatal Frame- This game features three playable characters, each with their own story line. It takes place at a tourist attraction called Mt. Hikami. Use the GamePad as your camera to investigate areas and fend off enemies in bursts of action. -Wii U 2015

Box Boy!- There are over 150 levels of puzzles to solve as Box Boy, who can duplicate his blocky body to move around and hang onto ledges. You can unlock costumes as you go. -3DS eShop April 2

Pokémon Rumble World- This free downloadable title features Pokémon from Red, Blue, and Yellow through Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire. Some of them can Mega Evolve. Attack using the (A) button. Defeat other toy Pokémon to add them to your collection. You'll travel via hot-air balloon. The type of balloon determines where you can go. Use Poke Diamonds to reach more distant lands. Get Poke Diamonds by clearing stages, StreetPass, or eShop funds. -3DS eShop April 8

Puzzle & Dragons Z and Puzzle & Dragons: Super Mario Edition- Both games come in a single package. In the Super Mario Edition, Bowser has kidnapped Princess Peach. Mario and Luigi must save her by creating the ideal team of Bowser's own minions. Match 3+ elemental orbs to launch attacks on your enemies. Team leaders have passive skills that are used automatically, while teammates have their own skills. You can select them after a certain number of turns. Teammates can also transform, which increases their power. In Puzzle & Dragon Z, you'll join the Rangers, a group that researches dragons. There are over 250 monsters that can become your team leader. Collect chips from defeated monsters to make your monster evolve. -3DS May 22

Attack on Titan: Humanity in Chains- Play as an elite member of the Scout Regiment to bring down a Titan alone or with friends using local or online co-op. The multiplayer modes have rankings and leaderboards. Use the C-Stick on the New Nintendo 3DS for smoother camera control. On the eShop, you'll find the first two episodes of the Attack on Titan anime. -3DS eShop May 2015

Codename S.T.E.A.M.- More Marth Amiibo will be available so you can add Marth as a playable character. There is also an update that allows you to press a button to fast-forward through enemy turns. April 1-5, there will a Hijinks tournament, named in honor of Tom Sawyer. Compete in head-to-head matches to get the best ranking. More tournaments will be available in the future. Top players will get titles added to their names, which will be visible online.

StreetPass Mii Plaza- There will be two new games added to the lineup. In Ultimate Angler, receive bait from Mii characters and catch various fish on different islands. Choose the perfect bait for the fish you want to catch, then reel it in. There are over 150 fish and several legendary monsters. In Battleground Z, you'll get items related to the hobbies of the Miis you StreetPass. Use them to beat zombies in Hobbiville. Save the citizens of Hobbiville with many different makeshift weapons. StreetPass Mii Plaza Premium is a paid service that adds new features, such as birthdays, so you can fill in your calendar. You can also store up to 100 Miis in the new VIP room. The update will be available April 16. These features can be purchased individually for $4.99 each or both games for $7.99.

Xenoblade Chronicles 3D- The same great game from the Wii will now be on the New Nintendo 3DS. In Collections Mode, you can view 3D character models and listen to the entire soundtrack, even with the system closed if you plug in headphones. -April 10

Fire Emblem- The character you create is the main character. Two kingdoms are on the verge of war, Hoshido and Nohr. A royal Hosido child is raised by the royal family of Nohr. You choose which side you'll fight for, but can only choose one. This decides your character's fate. The Hoshido side plays more traditionally, but the Nohr side will have you revolutionizing the kingdom from the inside out. -3DS 2016

Animal Crossing: Happy Home Designers- Decorate and design homes for other animals, without doing chores. The Animal Crossing cards act as Amiibo. Scan in the card to design a house for that character. Scan other cards to invite other animals into the house, have a party, and take pictures. A reader/writer accessory launching the same day will allow you to scan Amiibo cards to 3DS and 2DS consoles. -3DS Fall 2015

Mario Kart 8- The new Downloadable Content Pak 2 will feature an Animal Crossing course featuring the Villager, Isabelle, and Dry Bowser. The seasons will change each time you race. It will be available April 28, instead of May. More Mii character suits will become available via the following Amiibo: Mega Man, Pac-Man, Sonic, Toad, Wario, Villager, Rosalina, Bowser, and Captain Olimar. There will be a new engine class: 200 cc. With more speed, more skill is required and better braking skill is needed. This will be a free update on April 23.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-26. Magma Road Marathon

Captain Toad finds himself on a rocky path in lava. There are Blaargs and boost pads here. Try to collect as many coins as you can. Move the fans to create a path across the lava, then step on the first boost pad. There are several coins ahead, but all you have to do is run straight down the middle to get all of them. Turn left and go up the ramp for the first gem. Drop down for some more coins, then continue on. The path splits again so you can get more coins. The turns are tight, so pay attention. Ahead, move the fans for a direct path over the lava to the second gem. Loop back around for the other coins. The path splits again to a clear pipe cannon. Launch and pick the plant for a 1-up. Move the fans to create a path to the third gem and another clear pipe. This will launch you back to the main path. There are more Blaargs here as well as boost pads. At one point, the path forms a circle. You do not need to collect all of the coins around the circle. The path ahead is a straight shot to the Star.

Special Challenge: Collect 150 coins.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-25. Deep-Space Gyromajig

Captain Toad finds himself on a large, cube-like structure. There are Bullet Bills and Conkdors. Go around the corner and dodge the Bullet Bills by standing by the brick in front of the Star. Step on the P-Switch to rotate the cube and you'll land on the new floor. The plant between the Conkdors has many coins. Carefully walk around to the next P-Switch, which rotates the cube again. The P-Switch here is nearby, but leave it alone and walk to the right of the Bullet Bills for the first gem, which is behind a wall. Hit the P-Switch, then go towards the Conkdors. Pick a turnip and walk to the left of them. Toss the turnip at the second gem. There are two P-Switches here. The one farther from the Conkdors has a nearby plant with a pickax. Grab it and step on the P-Switch, then run to break the brick in front of the Star, then the brick in the opposite direction. Break one more brick around the corner so you can reach the third gem.

Special Challenge: Don't take any damage.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-24. Trick-Track Hall

Toadette finds herself in an area with Spikes and movable platforms. There are two arrow platforms to the side of the Spike in front of you. Touch them to move them in the direction of the arrows. This will make a path so the spike ball the Spike throws will roll into the gate in front of you and destroy it. Just be sure you're not standing directly on the other side of the gate. Once that gate is broken, move both arrow platforms, then rotate the camera so you can see the touchstone platform underneath where the gate was. Touch it to lower it so the Spike can destroy it. Move the closer arrow platform in front of you, stand on it, then move it so you can drop down to the hall. If you go around the corner away from the Spike, you'll find some coins. Walk around the corner where the Spike is and you'll find a couple of Piranha Sprouts. Pick one of them and walk to the railing and toss it at the first gem. The lone plant has multiple coins. Walk into the nearby corner and you'll find a plant with a key. Stand on the platform one of the Piranha Sprouts was on and touch it to lower it. You'll find a locked door and a Piranha Sprout around the corner. The door leads to the second gem. Return and move the arrow platform closest to the Spike on the opposite side of the gap to break the gate. Lower the platform at the end, carefully cross the spikes, then raise the platform. Cross the arrow platforms, moving them as necessary. An arrow platform in the corner has a plant with a Mushroom. Go around the corner and move the corner arrow platform behind the Spike for the third gem. Go back a short distance and use the arrow platforms to reach the arrow platform in the center. Move that one and time your drop onto the spikes below, then drop down to the floor. Stand on the touchstone to reveal a hidden Gold Mushroom, then get the Star.

Special Challenge: Find the hidden Gold Mushroom.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-23. Color Crate Carousel

Toadette finds herself in the green square of a construction of hollow wooden boxes that forms somewhat of a "plus" sign shape. The Star is just ahead, but as soon as you move toward it, the carousel starts spinning. There are walkways on the outside of some of the boxes. When the green box is directly above the yellow box, drop down to its ledge and quickly run inside. When the yellow box is above the blue box, drop in and get the first gem. While in the blue box, rotate the camera around so you're looking at the back of the carousel. When the blue box is in the upper right corner, you can quickly run left and drop down into the green box for the second gem. You'll then just barely drop down to the red box when the carousel rotates again. There's a hole in the wall of the red box that allows you to reach the third gem in the center. You'll exit the same way. Be sure to stand away from the hole while the carousel continues to rotate. You may have noticed the Gold Mushroom in one of the boxes. From the red box, drop to the blue box, then leave the blue box to reach the outside of the center. Walk along in a clockwise direction as it rotates. You can touch the carousel to stop it from moving to make things easier. Grab the Gold Mushroom when it reaches the top, then wait for the box to reach the top again, then drop down into the green box from the front side. Wait until the green box is in the lower left corner to go for the Star.

Special Challenge: Collect the Gold Mushroom.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-22. Touchstone Turmoil

Toadette finds herself on a set of two touchstones with Para Biddybuds. The blue one rises and falls and the yellow one shifts left and right. Walk up the ramp on the yellow touchstone, raise the blue touchstone, then walk into the alcove. Shift the yellow touchstone back and walk through the alcove to the first gem. Exit the alcove, then walk up the ramp. Shift the yellow touchstone and lower the blue one so you can cross to the blue touchstone. There are Para Biddybuds on this side. Raise the blue touchstone and shift the yellow one to reach the second gem on a lone yellow touchstone that moves with the large yellow touchstone. Afterwards, move both touchstones once each. This will reveal access to an alcove in the yellow touchstone via the archway in the blue touchstone. Move the yellow touchstone to exit on the other side of the wall on the blue touchstone. There are Para Biddybuds circling the third gem high in the air. Stand in the center of their circle and raise the blue touchstone so you can reach it, then lower it back down so you can escape the Para Biddybuds. Walk up the ramp and raise the blue touchstone. This will allow you to walk on the top part of the yellow touchstone. There are Para Biddybuds here. Drop down and move the yellow touchstone so you can get past the first set, move it back to get on the other side of the second set, then move it a third time to get past the second set and reach the Star.

Special Challenge: Clear the course in six touches.
To do so, move the yellow touchstone and cross to the blue touchstone. Go into the alcove in the yellow touchstone, then move it so you can exit on the side of the blue touchstone with the third gem. Raise the blue touchstone to cross to the high point of the yellow touchstone, then move it three more times to get around the Para Biddybuds.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-21. Ghost Gallery Gambit

Captain Toad finds himself in a room with the Star in the center. Approach the Star and a tower rises up under it. Purple water starts rising. Run to the left, where platforms will drop into the water so you can get out of the water. Follow the path and you'll encounter Boos. Do your best to dodge them, as you don't have enough time to defeat them with your headlamp. They'll disappear after you go around a couple of corners. You'll find the first gem on a seesaw. While you run, it will tip up enough for you to reach it. Go past the second gem, which you can't reach. Cross the seesaw around the corner, then double back. Platforms will appear behind you that allow you to reach the second gem. Walk up the ramp and you'll see a partial ring of Peepas. You may have time to defeat them. Let a few platforms fall so you can go past them without taking damage. Go around the corner and use the seesaw to get the third gem. Turn the corner and a giant Boo will appear behind you and a Boo will appear in front of you. Dodge or defeat them, then go around the corner, where you'll find more Boos and Giant Boos. Defeat them, then proceed on the flat platforms. At the end, you'll find a hidden Gold Mushroom. Run up the ramp to the Star. The Boos, platforms, and purple water will disappear when you step on the platform.

Special Challenge: Find the hidden Gold Mushroom.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-20. Twisty-Turn Planet

Captain Toad finds himself on a cylindrical planet surrounded by clouds. The planet is divided into three individually rotating sections with platforms on them. Stand on them away from the center to get them to spin. Be careful, as you can easily fall off the planet this way. Spin the middle section to find the first gem. The second gem appears on the middle section on one of the blue platforms. Line up that platform at the top, as well as one next to it so you can go through the blue pipe and cross the other platform to get it. Spin the platform closest to the blue pipe until a hole appears in the side. Use it to drop down to where the Toad Brigade is. Blue Toad will give you the third gem. Return using the red pipe. Spin the middle section until you come to a solid platform (not one with a hole in the middle) and stand on it, letting it drop down. Before you fall off, go to the nearby cloud. In front of the red pipe is an invisible Gold Mushroom. Grab it and return through the red pipe. Line up platforms for each section to make a path to the Star. It doesn't have to be perfect. You'll hear a chime when the platforms line up. Go through the blue pipe and run across the platforms to the Star.

Special Challenge: Find the hidden Gold Mushroom.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-19. Retro Ramp-up

Captain Toad finds himself on a Donkey Kong-esque level. Instead of Donkey Kong throwing barrels, at the top is a Spike throwing giant spike balls. Go up the first ladder and rotate the camera so you can see the back of the level. There are some coins here. Go up the second ladder while dodging the spike balls. Drop down and go up the third ladder. One of the plants here has a pickax. Use it to break all of the brick blocks to the left. Go to the back of the level and you'll find Para-Biddybuds flying around a ladder and the first gem. Climb up the nearby ladder on the front side of the level, then stand on the seesaw. Use the spike ball to launch across the gap. The doorway here leads to a Mushroom. Drop down to the doorway below for the second gem. Climb up the ladder and drop down. There's a hole in the brick block wall you can go through. Go up the ladder and through the doorway to the front side of the level. Use the fan to cross the gap to reach another plant with a pickax. With it, drop down and clear all of the brick blocks, head to the back and go left to break the bricks for the third gem. Go back up the ladder on the back side of the level, then drop to the Star.

Special Challenge: Break all of the blocks.
You can touch the GamePad to break the small brick blocks.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-18. No Sleep at Magikoopa Keep

You'll need 120 gems to unlock this level. I have 159.

Toadette finds herself at the base of a tall tower. When you approach the tower, a Magikoopa will appear and blast magic at you. Walk around the tower and you'll find some invisible coins and a pile of coins near the ladder in the back. Walk around the tower and collect as many coins as you can. Use the green pipe in the wall to go up a level. There are some Piranha Plants here. Stand by them to lure the Magikoopa into attacking them. To the left are some Stumpers. Use them to reach the first gem in the alcove and walk to the left. There's a plant near a gap in the floor. It has a key. Toss the key onto the fan, then go through the yellow pipe. Raise the fan and pick up the key. Drop down with the fan to get the coins. Walk to the right to find the locked door with the second gem. Take the red pipe up to the third level. Avoid the Stumpers using an alcove and you'll find a plant with a Mushroom. Walk to the other side and drop down to a P-Switch. This makes the third level rotate. Return to the third level and go through the blue pipe. This takes you to the fourth level. Climb the ladder to the top of the tower. Three Magikoopas will appear and the one following you around will disappear. Quickly run to the handle in the center and pull it for the turnip cannon. Defeat the Magikoopas and you'll be released from the cannon. The center part of the tower will rise, revealing the Star. Before you get it, drop down to the fourth level. Walk to the side of the tower with the Stumpers on the third level and drop down to them. Use them to reach the area inside the tower, where you'll find many coins and the third gem. Collect the Star when you're done.

Special Challenge: Collect 140 coins.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-17. Fright Train Flight

Toadette finds herself on the caboose of a train. When you start moving around, a large group of Mud Troopers will appear. Go through the doorway in the car to the other side. Climb up the ladder and you'll find a Chargin' Chuck and the first gem. Lure the Chargin' Chuck off the roof and have him destroy the Mud Troopers. Keep moving and frequently change directions, as it can outrun you on long straightaways. Once all of the Mud Troopers are gone, move forward to the next car with the Chargin' Chuck. The handle on the next car will uncouple the cars. Do so if you like. On this car, there are some bricks between this and the car ahead. There are also some crates. On the other side of them, you'll find a Flaptor, the second gem, and a Mud Trooper. Use the Flaptor to defeat the Mud Trooper. There are other Mud Troopers on this car, some on the other side of the bricks. Use the Chargin' Chuck to break through them and reach the next car, which you can uncouple. This car is flooded with Mud Troopers. Lead the Chargin' Chuck around to defeat them. You can also pick turnips on this car to clear a path for yourself. At the front of the car are two ladders. One is blocked off by bricks. Use the Chargin' Chuck to destroy them. Climb up this ladder for the third gem. The other ladder leads to the handle that will uncouple this car from the engine. Drop down and you'll find more Flaptors and Mud Troopers. Use the Flaptors to defeat the Mud Troopers. Inside the engine room, you'll find Blue Toad with a Mushroom for you. Pull the handle for a 1-up Mushroom. Climb up the ladder to the front of the engine and you'll find another Flaptor and Mud Trooper. Walk around and climb the ladder to the top of the engine, where there are two Flaptors and several Mud Troopers. It will be a little challenging to defeat them, especially as they will crowd the ladder. Lure them to the other side so you can climb the ladder. Once all of them are defeated, drop down the ladder on the other side to the Star.

Special Challenge: Defeat all of the Mud Troopers.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-16. Poison Canal Cannon Run

Toadette finds herself in a swamp filled with purple water and Fuzzies. Use the clear pipe cannon to launch to a touchstone in the purple water. Grab the Double Cherry and touch the touchstone to move it. The directions it will move are indicated by the arrows on it. Launch from the clear pipe cannon and you'll encounter Fuzzies. Move the touchstone you just landed on while avoiding the Fuzzies and launch from the nearby pipe cannon. You'll land on solid ground, where you'll find two P-Switches. Step on them for the first gem. Move the touchstone you were just on back into place, then launch from the cannon near the P-Switches to another area with a cannon. This will launch you back to the touchstone. Launch from the cannon by the touchstone to another touchstone. Before using the cannon, move the touchstone for another Double Cherry. When you're ready to launch, be sure to move the touchstone ahead so you can land on it. Line the Toadettes up so they can go through the awnings when you move the touchstone. This is so you can get another Double Cherry and the second gem. Launch from the cannon to a touchstone. There's a line of Fuzzies moving around, so time your moving of the touchstone. This will take you to solid ground. There's an elevator for 3 that will take you to the third gem. Step on the touchstone by the cannon and prepare to launch. Once inside the cannon, move the touchstone so you'll have somewhere to land. You'll land in a ring of Fuzzies. Run past the Fuzzies with good timing to reach the Star.

Special Challenge: Clear the course with four Toadettes.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-15. Razzle-Dazzle Slider

Toadette finds herself at the base of a colorful pinball machine. Use either clear pipe cannon to launch to the top of the machine, then slide down. You'll defeat any Ant Troopers or Piranha Plants in your path. At the bottom are five small square panels. You'll need to hit each of them to lift the gate to the Star at the base. Try to hit two at a time. Near the top, you'll find spinning rings with coins and the second gem. In the center of the machine is a hole. Drop down it to find the third gem guarded by a Walleye. You'll exit near the base. When looking down at the Star from the top of the pinball machine, there is a hole on the left. Drop down it to a clear pipe cannon, then launch from it for the first gem.

Special Challenge: Do not fall into any holes.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-14. Shy Guy Shadow Den

Toadette finds herself in a two-story building that is dark, but partially lit by torches. There are Shy Guys patrolling all over the place. Be careful to not be spotted by them. You can kill them, as long as they don't see you. They'll notice you if your headlamp is on, so turn it off by pressing (Y). Sneak past the first Shy Guy and go into the dark hallway. Rotate the camera around and you'll see a small room to the right. Sneak past the Shy Guy here and climb up the ladder for the first gem. Continue to the end of the dark hallway, where you'll find yet another Shy Guy. Sneak past it and climb the ladder. There's a Fire Piranha at the top of the ladder. Lure it into breathing fire at the corner in front of it. This will make a torch light up and the second gem will appear on a set of stairs. Around the corner are two Shy Guys patrolling the area. Follow behind one of them until you reach a doorway. Go through the doorway to find the Star and another doorway. That doorway leads to a plant with the key. Grab the key and use it to unlock the door where the Shy Guys are patrolling outside of the room with the Star. Go down the ladder and through the purple pipe. You'll find three Fire Piranhas and six plants here. The plants have coins, turnips, a Mushroom and the third gem. You can lure the Fire Piranhas to breathe fire on each other so you can pick the plants in peace. Once you have the gem, return to the room with the Star.

Special Challenge: Slip past all the Shy Guys.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-13. Secret of the Golden Realm

You'll need 110 gems to unlock this level. I have 144.

Captain Toad finds himself in a lava-filled cave with touchstones. A gold Draggadon appears. Use the touchstones to dodge his flames. You'll come across three touchstones next to each other. The one closest to the rock wall will allow you to reach the first gem. The door below it will take you to a panel with flip panels. This leads to a clear pipe cannon. You'll launch to the other side of the cave, where there are doors embedded in the touchstones. Move both touchstones closer to you, go through the door, then move them back. Drop down to the metal platform below and go through the door on the other side for the second gem. The flip panels will provide some protection from the flames, but don't try to outrun them on your way to the gem. Go back through the door and launch from the clear pipe cannon. There are a couple more touchstones with doors. Go through the lower door, then move the lower touchstone so you can reach the third gem on top of it. Walk around to the other side of the touchstones, which will allow you to continue on to another touchstone. Use the flip panels to reach the ladder to the Star. Keep up with the flip panels, but do not outrun them. They disappear fairly quickly. The ladder and rock will fall and hit the golden Draggadon on the head. The Star will land on its nose.

Special Challenge: Clear course in ten touches.
To do so, you have to touch the touchstones minimally. Do not use them to protect you from the flames. Only use them to progress through the course. Cut corners where possible.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-12. Rock Block Badlands

Captain Toad finds himself in front of a tower with many bricks. There are regular and homing Bullet Bills firing from the tower and Goombas wandering around. Spin the gears near the Bill Blasters to lower the platforms with the handles. The handles are turnip cannons. Use them to blast away the many bricks and enemies on each side. With the cannon on the right side, you can get the second gem. Climb up the ladder in the center for the first gem. Once the blocks are cleared off, climb up the ladders of the tower. On the left side, go into the turret and drop down to the third gem. When you climb the ladder again, beware the homing Bullet Bills as you walk to the right. There's a gear you have to spin to lower the tower with the Star so you can reach it. The homing Bullet Bills can reach you, so be quick and careful.

Special Challenge: Clear in ten or fewer shots.
You'll need really good aim to break all the bricks that are blocking your path. Try to hit more than one brick per shot. This may take several attempts.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-11. Flip Panel Footpath

Captain Toad finds himself near two tall towers high in the sky. Step on the green switch to make green flip panels appear. Follow them to reach the lower part of the tower with the Star. Collect the invisible coins there. Hit the next switch to make a path to the other tower. On the way, you'll pass some donut lifts. Collect the coins and the first gem. There are two switches by this tower. Hit the left one so you can reach the ladder on one side. Climb up and you'll find some plants. One has the second gem. Drop down on the side with the switches and wait for the switch to reset. Hit it again and walk to the side opposite the ladder. Use the ladder to get the coins on the inside of the tower and drop back down to the switches. This time, hit both switches. You'll want to hit the switch on the right a little earlier than the one on the left. Follow the path of the right switch to the donut lifts with the third gem. This will allow you to reach the left switch's path, which will move faster. Follow it up to the part of the tower with the Star. There are some coins along the outside edge of the tower you can collect.

Special Challenge: Collect 45 coins.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-10. Multi-Vator Mayhem

Captain Toad finds himself in an area with many Double Cherries. The first thing you'll want to do is walk around defeating the Flaptors with turnips without collecting the Double Cherries. Drop down the elevator for four. There's a pickax in the plants you can use to break the bricks for the first gem. Grab the Double Cherry near the elevator for two, then activate the elevator. It will lower to an area with coins and another Double Cherry. Be careful, as there is purple water under the elevator. Take the other set of stairs down. You'll find an elevator for three which will lift you to a Double Cherry and the connecting point to the elevator for four. Activate it and it will lift you to the second gem, which is near the Star. Drop down to the grassy plateau for another Double Cherry. The lone plant here has the third gem. Drop down to the elevator for four and let it take all five Captain Toads up to the Star.

Special Challenge: Clear the course with five Toads.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-9. Mine Cart Ruins Rumble

You need 100 gems to unlock this level. I have 132.

Toadette finds herself at the ruins of a temple. There are many Mud Troopers in this area. Sneak past them, or use your flashlight to make them temporarily disappear. Walk through the arch, then up the ladder on the other side. It leads to the mine cart. There are Ant Troopers crawling over the temple ruins. Past the temple, you'll find a small pyramid of blocks with a POW Block. Nearby is a lone item block with many coins. You'll also find a brick wall that hides stacks of coins. Break as many bricks as possible, as well as defeat as many Mud Troopers as possible. You'll soon reach the end of the mine cart track. Collect the coins if you like, then dodge the Mud Troopers to reach another one on the opposite side of the coins. Once in the mine cart, pelt the nearby pyramid of brick blocks with turnips, as the first gem is inside. You'll soon go around a corner and find more Mud Troopers and a POW Block. Hit the POW Block to defeat them, then toss a turnip at the second gem. After turning a couple more corners, the mine cart will drop a large distance. There's a wall of item blocks with a POW Block in the center. Hit the POW Block, then immediately take aim at the 1-up Mushroom that appears so you can collect it. Aim and timing are crucial, as it will fall into the void. Immediately look behind you for the third gem. Enjoy the rest of the ride and get the Star.

Special Challenge: Collect the 1-up Mushroom.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-8. Up 'n' Down Desert

Toadette finds herself in a desert with P-Switches and Piranha Sprouts. The P-Switches make parts of the desert rise and fall. Hit either P-Switch next to the Piranha Sprout to lower it. The plant in front of it contains the first gem. Walk up the ramp near the corner without hitting a P-Switch until you reach the narrow path that is level with the second gem. Step on the P-Switch on the path to raise a part to fill in the gap to get the gem. The part in the gap has a Piranha Sprout, so you may want to pick it up beforehand so it doesn't attack you. Once you get the gem, step on a P-Switch so you can progress up the ramp around the corner. You'll have to hit all three P-Switches here to progress, as stepping on the P-Switch near the corner will block your access. Step on it first, which raises the platform, then the two near each other to lower, then raise the platform. When you step on the P-Switch in the corner, you'll lower the platform. There is a Piranha Sprout in the gap in the path to the Star. Pick it up, walk up the ramp, and toss it at the third gem. To cross the gap, you'll have to step on the three P-Switches in a specific order: the one near the Piranha Sprout, then the one at the base of the ramp, then the one partway up the ramp. Cross the gap to the Star.

Special Challenge: Use Switches eight times to clear the course.
To do so, step on one P-Switch to lower the platform, walk up the ramp and around the corner, and hit the three P-Switches as before. Hit the P-Switches in the area with the ramp to the Star in the same way as before.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-7. Cagey Conkdor Caper

Toadette finds herself in a caged-in area with some Conkdors. There are four Conkdors lined up in a row near the start. The first gem is in front of the third Conkdor from the left. You'll have to be quick to get it. Drop down on the right side and go through the yellow pipe on the left side. You'll be on an upper level. Drop down to stomp on the leftmost Conkdor, then go through the yellow pipe on the right. This leads you to a spinning cylinder that you walk in to rotate, like a hamster wheel. There's a hole in one part of the cylinder. Drop into the cylinder, then rotate it until the hole is at the bottom. Drop through and you'll land on a yellow platform. Drop down towards the row of Conkdors and pull the handle. This will make the Conkdors rise to the upper level. Drop down to the ground and go through the yellow pipe on the left. Let the Conkdors break the bricks for you. The second gem is in the plant on the far right. Drop down where the leftmost Conkdor used to be and you'll find a ladder to another cylinder. Roll it to the right to reach the third gem, then drop in through the hole. Roll the cylinder to the right and exit the cylinder. Near the corner, you'll find a hidden Gold Mushroom. Drop down to the Star.

Special Challenge: Find the hidden Gold Mushroom.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-6. Biddybud Snow Stroll

Toadette finds herself on a tiled cube with some Biddybuds, that walk an interesting path. Not all of the tiles are stable and will fall away permanently when you step on them. This takes you inside the cube, where some gems and Fuzzies are. The plant by the fence has the first gem. Drop inside the cube. The Fuzzies will move back and forth along long paths. On one side, they will guard the third gem in an alcove. The second gem is in a corner, on a platform under a tile. To get it, you'll have to exit the cube. Use the fans in the corners to do so, then step on the corresponding tile to drop down to the gem. There's a long chain of Fuzzies that passes through the area, so be careful. When you have all three tiles, exit the cube and follow the Biddybuds to the part of the cube that was originally missing a tile that isn't in a corner. Many of the tiles near it will fall away, so you may have to walk on a diagonal to it. Drop down and walk a short distance to the Star.

Special Challenge: Don't break any tiles.
To do so, follow the Biddybuds, who will only step on tiles that won't break.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-5. Stumpy Springs Sanctuary

Wingo drops Toadette under a tall tree with a river flowing by it. Go under the tree's slide and drop down the ladder into the water. Nearby, in an underground alcove is the first gem. Use the ladder to get out of the water, then walk towards the log with an Ant Trooper walking over it. Drop down near a gem you can't reach yet. There's a plant with ten coins in the corner. Climb the ladder to the log with two Ant Troopers. It's a little difficult to go through the log without being hit, but you should run quickly. Leave the log and drop down, then cross the log raft to a P-Switch. This raises the log raft up to the log at the top of the tree. Drop down into the log and you'll find the second gem. There's a hole in the log at the other side. Drop down from it to hit a P-Switch, which makes the log rotate. Drop down under the log with the Ant Trooper and walk up the ramp to the third gem. Make your way back to the rising log raft and drop into the spinning log. Drop onto the log with the two Ant Troopers and you'll find a hidden Gold Mushroom at the end closest to the raft. Return to the spinning log and drop down onto the tree's slide. Walk up the slide to the Star.

Special Challenge: Find the hidden Gold Mushroom.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-4. Pickax Cave Plummet

You need 80 gems to unlock this level. I have 117.

Captain Toad finds himself on a small field with a small body of water. There's a plant moving around. Pick it to get a pickax. Use it to break the brick wall in the rocks, then drop into the water. At the bottom are some bricks. Break them to get the first gem. Pull the handle below to get back up. Pick the plant near where you started for another pickax. Go through the bricks behind you. You'll find more pickaxes and some Piranha Sprouts. Walk around the corner twice and find an area where you can drop down. With the pickax, drop down to the right for the second gem. Drop down further and you'll find some Mud Troopers. Head to the left. There appear to be some bricks blocking your path, but you can go behind them. Go up the stairs, then down and you'll find Green Toad. There are two plants in front of him: one has a Mushroom and the other has a turnip. A Mud Trooper will appear on the stairs, so defeat him with the turnip. Go up the stairs and you'll find more turnips and Mud Troopers. Go around the corner and you'll find a lone Piranha Sprout. One of the nearby plants has a pickax. With it, drop down on the side with the Piranha Sprout two floors down and you'll find the wall bricked up. Use the pickax to break it to get the third gem. Drop down to the Star, which is guarded by Mud Troopers. Behind the brick wall on the right are coins and a Gold Mushroom.

Special Challenge: Don't break any bricks.
You can't use the pickax to break any bricks. There are parts between the bricks where you can drop down.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-3. Beep Block Sky Plaza

Captain Toad finds himself on a small network of beep blocks. Walk forward onto the pink beep blocks, then to the safe blocks. Pick a turnip and toss it at the first gem, which can't be reached when the blue blocks appear. Go to the right and you'll find a tunnel under a safe block. Go through it when the blue blocks appear, then go around the corner and you'll find another tunnel with the second gem. You can reach it when the pink blocks appear. Backtrack to the turnips, then head left to where there are ladders on the pink blocks. Climb the ladders, which will still be there when the blue blocks appear. You can hang onto them while you wait for the pink blocks to appear. At the top, drop down to the blue blocks, then the safe block in front of them. Dodge the flames of the Fire Bro. When the blue blocks appear again, run down the long set of blue blocks and hang on the ladder. At the top, there's a safe block with a Mushroom. Climb up the ladder on the pink blocks and pick a turnip from the safe block. When the blue blocks appear, stand on the nearest one and hit the Fire Bro with it. Carefully time your drop from the blue block to the pink blocks below, then pick the plant where the Fire Bro was for the third gem. When the blue blocks appear, drop down and go to the Star.

Special Challenge: Do not take damage.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-2. Seesaw Sizzle

There are several Spikes in this level. They throw giant spike balls onto the seesaws in front of them and into the lava. If you stand on the opposite side of the seesaw when a spike ball lands on it, you'll launch and stomp the Spike. Stand on the first seesaw and let the spike ball launch you. On the next seesaw, in the corner, let it tilt down towards the platform to reveal a hallway. Walk around and you'll find a plant with the first gem. Go past the spike ahead and drop down around the corner. Walk under the seesaw towards the Star and you'll find the second gem. Step on the nearby P-Switch to move the seesaw so you can cross under it to the other side. Climb up the ladder, being careful to avoid the spike ball. You'll find the third gem under the seesaw. Cross the seesaw to the right of it to reach the seesaw to the Star.

Special Challenge: Do not defeat the Spikes.
You'll have to use the ladders and have good timing to do this.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 3-1. Rolling Inferno

Captain Toad is searching for Toadette. He fell asleep in a cave. There's a nearby hidden plant with many coins. Climb the ladder and walk to the Star. Feathers appear and Wingo takes the Star, with Toadette.

This level has many rolling areas over lava as well as Blaargs that periodically jump out of the lava. Cross over the green roll to a grate, then over a thin green roll to an area with some coins. Use the large green roll to drop down to a fan. Walk under another large green roll to the first gem. Use the fan to reach a higher level. Go across the three green rolls to reach the second gem. From the middle green row of the set, drop down onto the fan and use it to reach a lower platform with the third gem. It's towards the back, past a grate that a Blaarg goes through. Use the fan to reach the grate near the Star, then get the Star.

Special Challenge: Collect 75 coins.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 2-18. Battle Tower Blitz

You need 75 gems to unlock this level. I have 105.

Toadette finds herself on a tower with only a clear pipe. Launch to another tower with Fire Bros and shields that are touchstones. The plants contain turnips you can throw at the lower Fire Bros. Hit the one not on the stairs and walk up the nearby ladder. Step on the P-Switch to reveal a clear pipe near where the Fire Bro was. Rotate the camera around to the back so you can see where the first gem is in the clear pipe. Exit the pipe at the top of the stairs and you'll stomp a Fire Bro. Go down the stairs to stomp the rest. Once you defeat all of them, a bridge will drop so you can cross to the tower with the clear pipe. Be sure to collect as many coins as you can while you're going through the course and try not to die.

The clear pipe cannon will launch you to a tower with Magikoopas. There's a turnip plant in the center that will give you unlimited turnips. Toss them into the pipes at the lowest level and they'll cross to the other side to hit the Magikoopas. For example, if a Magikoopa is on the left side of the tower, in front of the right clear pipe on the left side of the tower, throw the turnip into the lower left pipe. Clear the two Magikoopas out and the bridge to the next clear pipe cannon will drop. You'll land in an area with the Toad Brigade. Approach Blue Toad for a Mushroom. There's also a ladder that leads below the floor, where the second gem is.

Launch from the clear pipe cannon and climb the tall ladder. You'll see Captain Toad and the Star, as well as Goomba Stacks and Hammer Bros. Carefully make your way past them towards the center while avoiding the purple water, where there's a handle. Pull it and it becomes a turnip cannon. Use the turnips to defeat all enemies and clear out all of the bricks. You'll find the third gem in one of the corners. Be sure to defeat the enemies on Captain Toad's side. Once all of the enemies have been defeated, the bridge will drop. Grab the Star and Wingo will pick up Toadette with his beak and blow Captain Toad away by flapping his wings. He falls off the tower. This concludes Episode 2 and Episode 3 is now open.

Special Challenge: Collect 170 coins.
You'll need to collect the vast majority of coins on this level without dying. If you do die, there's a checkpoint when you reach the Toad Brigade, so you'll have to start over.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 2-17. Spinwheel Sky Fort

Toadette is on a fort that can be rotated around. There are green and orange sides. You will start on the green side. Homing Bullet Bills will fire at you. Walk around to the other side of the green side. Cross to the orange side and hit the POW Block for the first gem. Walk back towards the center and rotate the gear to rotate the orange side of the fort. Rotate it so you get the flat area with two Piranha Plants and a Bill Blaster. Go past the Bill Blaster and you'll find another gear that rotates the green side. Rotate the gear until you see a gem and two Bill Blasters. Walk past the Bill Blasters for the second gem. Walk back to the green gear and rotate it so you can reach both gears with it. Rotate the orange gear so that you can see the Star, but can't reach it. Walk to the other side, with the red Bill Blaster and pick the plant for the third gem. Go back to the orange gear and rotate it so that the three Piranha Plants and the Star are facing up and, but you can't walk from the orange gear to the orange side. Walk on the green side, then go to the orange side to get the Star.

Special Challenge: Do not take damage.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 2-16. Bullet Bill's Touchy Trials

Toadette finds herself on a Bullet Bill base in lava that contains touchstones. Duck into the nearby alcove and touch the touchstone with the nearby Bill Blasters so they can break the bricks ahead. Raise them and move forward. The lone plant ahead has the first gem. Walk around the corner and step on the touchstone with the Bill Blasters. Touch them to move them so you can reach the other side and the Bullet Bills can break the bricks. Step back onto the base, move the Bill Blasters away, then lower the touchstone in front of them so the Bullet Bills can break the bricks on it. Stand on that touchstone and raise it. Walk under the Star and turn the corner. Walk into the doorway ahead, then touch the touchstone. The second gem is inside the touchstone. Lower it, touch the touchstone with a Bill Blaster near the Star, which will break a brick, stand on the touchstone that contained the second gem and raise it after raising the touchstone with the Bill Blaster. Go through the doorway and look to the left. There's a hidden Gold Mushroom here. Walk to the right and up the ladder after destroying the bricks with the Bullet Bills on the other side. Cross to the other side of the walkway, moving touchstones with Bill Blasters out of the way. Drop down on the other side and climb the ladder on the touchstone. Move the two touchstones below to form a safety net over the lava and drop down. Move the touchstone under the Bill Blaster back to reach the third gem. Stand on the touchstone and move it back, transfer to the other touchstone, and move it. Climb onto the ladder and raise the touchstone with the Bill Blaster. Quickly cross the Bullet Bills' path to another touchstone with the ladder and raise it to the Star.

Special Challenge: Find the hidden Gold Mushroom.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker -- Episode 2-15. Double Cherry Spires

Toadette finds herself at a palace. There are four short towers near the corners, each with a different color lamp. The tower with the yellow lamp, in the northeast corner, has a Gold Mushroom. Go upstairs in the center tower to get the Double Cherry. Walk forward and split up the clones to land on two P-Switches. This raises the towers and fences between the Toadettes. Send the Toadette on the right to the yellow lamp's tower. Climb up the ladder, then drop down to the P-Switch. This will make the tower on the opposite side, the green lamp's tower, rise and fall. Send the left Toadette into this tower and have her step on the P-Switch on that side. This will raise the tower in front of it, the blue lamp's tower. Under it is a plant with the first gem. Use the green lamp tower to reach the floating carpet to the blue lamp tower. Pick a turnip from the blue lamp tower and carry it to the center tower. Toss it at the second gem. There are unlimited turnips in the blue lamp tower, so it's okay if you miss. Step on the P-Switch in the center tower to raise the pink lamp tower so it connects on the third level of the center tower. Send the Toadette on the right under that tower for a key. Toss it over the fence and unlock the door for the third gem. Climb the ladder on the pink lamp tower and cross to the center tower. Step on the P-Switch, which makes the barrier on the second level of the center tower disappear. Have both Toadettes stand on the two-person elevator, which will take them to the Star.

Special Challenge: Collect the Gold Mushroom.