10 Dumb Video Game Mechanics We Should've Hated

Super Mario 3D World may not have been a gamechanger like Galaxy or Odyssey, but it's still a terrific title. It was the first mainstream Mario platformer to allow four concurrent players, reintroduced classic staples like the level-ending flagpole, and most importantly, allowed the player to transform into a cat (our prayers were answered).

However, there was cynicism centred around the Captain Toad sections. In these mini-levels, Toad must make his way around an isometric arena to collect Green Stars. The player must shift the camera to see the best way to dodge traps, enemies, and ensure our mushroom-hatted hero lands on the correct platforms.

Although there's nothing wrong with these sections conceptually, they're quite jarring compared to the rest of the game. Because Mario is known for somersaulting and backflipping to his heart's content, it's odd to include segments where jumping is off-limits.

However, these sections were more popular than anyone anticipated. Even though the Toad levels don't need to be completed to win the main campaign, many players took part in them anyway, since they're incredibly addictive. (They also serve as a nice breather, after taking part in an exceptionally gruelling platforming level.)

These areas were such a hit, it inspired a spin-off called Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker. This action puzzle title was so well-received, it was ported to the Switch several years later.