Super Meat Boy 3D makes suffering fun
The original Super Meat Boy became a cult classic in 2010 with its fiercely difficult 2D platforming and speedy, puzzle-like levels. Now, Super Meat Boy 3D brings the same relentless challenge into a three-dimensional world, keeping the core intensity intact while introducing new ways to test players.
A Familiar Feel In a New Dimension
Controlling Meat Boy feels just as responsive as before, with his signature floaty jumps and trail of blood splatters marking each death and attempt. Now in 3D, players must master diagonal jumps and navigate multiple walls, all while facing familiar threats like saws, lasers, and homing missiles. The addition of depth doesn’t make things easier — it forces you to rethink your movements.
Fast Failures, Fast Progress
Super Meat Boy 3D’s levels regularly appear impossible, but fast respawns let players quickly jump back into the action. Every death offers insight, and repeated attempts gradually build up skill. There are no difficulty settings, so overcoming each challenge is part of the game’s philosophy.
Extra Challenges for the Ambitious
If the default difficulty isn’t enough, optional collectibles and time trials unlock extra characters and levels in the Dark World. Performing feats like finishing whole worlds without dying pushes the experience even further.
Completing the main Light World levels took about five hours and over 900 deaths, but the sense of achievement makes the struggle worthwhile. Super Meat Boy 3D is now available on Nintendo Switch 2, PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S.
For the original review, visit The Verge.
