The latest issue of Game Informer revealed some interesting details about upcoming Mario platformer, New Super Mario Bros. U.
- World-map will feature multiple branching paths as well as map panning.
- Seven different worlds known at the time, Acorn Plains, Sparkling Waters (tropical), Frosted Glacier, Layer Cake Desert (complete with melting desserts) as well as worlds similar to Forest of Illusion and Sky World and a world surrounded by a tornado.
- There is an auto-scrolling “Boost Rush” mode to add an extra challenge.
- Mid-world fortresses are guarded by Boom-Boom while end-level castles are guarded by Koopalings.
Concerned Gamer 
I was just commenting how the nsmb series should be more like super Mario world. Hope they put a lot of good secret paths and such.
Map panning, wow!