I finally got Super Mario 3D Land! But is a Mario platformer just as good in 3D as it is in classic 2D? Read on to find out!
Story: Princess Peach gets captured by Bowser, for the millionth time. Cliche`, but if it isn’t broke Nintendo isn’t going to fix it.
Sound: Jaunty and Super Mario-y as ever. Quirky sound effects and tunes are littered about in every nook and cranny of the levels, and the music is on par with even that of the great Super Mario Galaxy’s. Sound: 8.5/10
Presentation: Definitely a contender for best looking 3DS game. Not just in the 3D (which is superb when used correctly in certain levels) but just in the plain graphics, which easily rival that of the Wii’s. The 3D is good in certain places, but overall just doesn’t really fit the scheme of Super Mario. Presentation: 9/10
Gameplay: It feels identical to the already mentioned Super Mario Galaxy, being a 3D and 2D platformer. At first it feels sort of awkward due to the small screen, but eventually you adjust and everything feels just like it should. Before I get too in-depth, I just want to say the 3D (not 3D as in three dimensional, but as in pop-out visuals) isn’t mandatory for the game, but somehow if you’re not using it Nintendo trolls you. It’s black magic, no doubt about it. Anyway, at its root it is the same tried and true formula that has made Mario a video game superstar, what with the goomba-stomping, platform hopping and wall jumping action. But if that weren’t enough, a plethora of new suits have been added to Mario’s array, including the boomerang bros. suit and the revitalization of the Tanooki suit. These power ups are surprisingly important and key if you intend on beating this game. Really, this game is surprisingly difficult and definitely one of the most challenging handheld titles I’ve ever played, due to it’s demand for sheer platforming skill. Gameplay: 9/10
Multiplayer: N/A
Length: While the first eight worlds only take about six hours to blaze through, the hundreds of star coins and eight special worlds (that’s seven more than most Mario games) will keep you busy for quite a long time. Length: 10/10
Overall: This is no pathetic handheld game. This is an amazing Super Mario game that easily earns its 9.1 Tanooki suits out of 10.
Robert's Interstellar Soapbox 