I've played every Super Mario game and this new title is great family fun

PRINCESS Peach's first solo game in almost a decade is almost here.

Princess Peach: Showtime! is a sidescrolling adventure for the Nintendo Switch, releasing on March 22, 2024.

We got a chance to play the game early, and it's packed with all the charm you'd expect from the Pink Princess.

Peach changes into a different costume in each level, giving her a unique ability that will be tested throughout the level.

As a swordsman, she can destroy any enemy; as a cowgirl, she can lasso enemies and objects before throwing them; and as Patisserie Peach with the beautiful name, she can bake and decorate cakes.

It allows for great variety in the levels, as each level has a play ruined by dark magic.

You have to sneak through and defeat invading enemies as a ninja, chase bandits as a cowgirl or rescue fellow dancers as a figure skater.

While the light atmosphere makes for an enjoyable time, the game play is exceptionally simple.

Where a game like Super Mario Wonder has levels that are easy enough for kids, but extra challenges for more experienced players, Showtime doesn't target either demographic.

There are hidden collectibles in each level, but many of them are located directly on the path of the level, and even the secrets aren't that difficult to discover on your very first playthrough.

Nintendo has confirmed to me that the game will feature ten transformations, each with two main levels dedicated to them, plus some bonus challenge levels later on.

I really enjoyed bouncing through each of the first four levels I got to play.

As always, Nintendo's world-building is joyful, as I love the little details in every nook and cranny.

Since each level is presented like a play, the cute background design and the way the levels shift from screen to screen are great.

Even though I can breeze through it, I'm curious to see what the full game has in store, as each new transformation leads to fun moments.

Written by Ryan Woodrow on behalf of GLHF.

All the latest PS5 reviews from The Sun

Learn about the latest PS5 releases from our expert reviewers.