In the latest issue of Game Informer, there’s a whole lot of information on New Super Mario Bros. U and Nintendo Land.

First up, Mario:
– Dozens of levels across one world map, like Super Mario World
– Map can be panned around and explored at any time
– Game features an auto-scrolling, Boost Rush mode for more of a challenge
– Multiple branching paths that let you pick which way to go
– This is much more than the tradition level choosing, which usually gives you only two paths to choose from
– Mid-world fortresses guarded by Boom-Boom
– End-level castles guarded by Koopalings

As for Nintendo Land:
– Metroid Blast is very similar to the “Battle Mii” demo from E3 2011, it includes classic music from the series, several maps (with one being Norfair and featuring a mechanical replica of Kraid in it), allows for 5 players at once, and has multiple modes.
– Balloon Fight Breeze is a side scrolling game. It uses the Wii U GamePad’s touch screen and stylus, and players have to navigate their characters through a variety of obstacles. The GamePad gives you a close up look of the player’s Mii and the TV provides a wide perspective of the level.

If you’re looking forward to Wii U and learning more about some of its early games, between launch and the end of the year, this issue of Game Informer is definitely one worth picking up.