As we look back on 2023, the gaming landscape saw remarkable achievements from both major franchises and independent titles. Among the standout releases was Pizza Tower, a 2D platformer developed predominantly by a single creator. Launched on Steam in January 2023, this game surprised many with its meteoric rise in popularity despite minimal pre-release marketing and no presence at significant gaming expos. According to user reviews aggregated on Steam250, Pizza Tower quickly ascended to become the highest-rated 2D platformer on the platform.
Wario Land 4: The Classic Inspiration Behind Pizza Tower Arrives on NSO
Wario Land 4: A Beloved Entry in the Wario Series
When discussing Nintendo platformers, most fans instinctively think of the legendary Mario franchise. However, it’s essential to recognize Wario, Mario’s unscrupulous rival, who also boasts a series of platforming adventures. Throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, Nintendo introduced multiple titles featuring Wario, evolving into the expansive Wario Land series. The initial game was developed as a sequel to the Super Mario Land games for the original Game Boy, eventually blossoming into its own unique series, comprising six main titles and two spin-offs, including one for the Virtual Boy.
Instead of merely replicating Mario’s 2D platforming model, the Wario Land games forged their own identity. They are renowned for featuring unconventional abilities, non-linear levels, and a distinctive sense of humor—elements that differentiate them from traditional Mario titles. Among these installments, Wario Land 4, released in 2001 on the Game Boy Advance, stands out as a fan favorite.
Wario Land 4, though titled as the fourth installment, is actually the fifth main entry in the series. It showcases an exaggerated, whimsical art style that amplifies the zany characteristics of its gameplay. In this title, Wario can charge at enemies, roll through levels, and perform dash attacks, reminiscent of the abilities found in Pizza Tower‘s protagonist, Peppino Spaghetti. Wario also possesses unique abilities—referred to as ‘reactions’—which facilitate his progression. These include transforming into a pancake, inflating like a balloon, and even taking on a zombie form. Such mechanics clearly highlight the inspirations drawn by Pizza Tower from Wario Land 4.
From GBA to Switch: Wario Land 4 Makes a Comeback
Initially released as a Game Boy Advance exclusive, Wario Land 4 has seen multiple ports over the years. In 2011, it was made available for early Nintendo 3DS adopters through the Ambassador Program, marking a notable moment in GBA game accessibility on the 3DS via the Virtual Console. The game was later ported to the Wii U in 2014, but had yet to arrive on contemporary systems until recent announcements.
Nintendo recently revealed that Wario Land 4 will become available on the Nintendo Switch Online service starting February 14, 2025. This exciting development means that the Switch will soon be the exclusive platform hosting both Wario Land 4 and Pizza Tower. For fans of 2D platformers, experiencing these two distinct yet influential titles should undoubtedly be a priority.
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