Easily the series' top title to date, bar none. Takes the best features from previous entries and blends them perfectly.
Story: 9.5/10
The storyline for Awakening is amazingly well thought out, and keeps the player intrigued the whole way through, doubly so because the player specifically has an active role in the story; for the first time since the series' English debut, the player exists ingame as a character, and in this title they even step up as an actual combatant. This helped draw me into the story much more than in previous games, and is one of many subtle nods to other games in the series. A consistently engaging plot keeps everything rolling from start to finish, and the ending is quite satisfying. My only issue was the length, but it still persisted long enough to be a full story - nothing was specifically cut short, it was simply a matter of not wanting the game to be over. Even additions like bonus characters through Spotpass DLC are well explained in terms of canon, which is another strong point.
Gameplay: 9.5/10
Awakening plays just like any other title in the series, and rather than making a gimmick out of either the 3D features or touchscreen like other 3DS/DS games have done in the past, it uses each to full effect while not having either be too obtrusive; the features are mostly optional, but lend a lot to the experience. The Inventory interface was a minor sticking point, as it has certain elements that feel clunky, such as the convoy system listing items that were on other characters, not on the convoy itself. In general, the item management from previous games is superior, but it isn't a large enough flaw to detract too heavily from anything. Reclassing makes a triumphant return, along with the forging system, though the latter exists mostly as a way to add some extra customization to the game and should only be used sparingly, if at all because of the actual cost in resources. The support system is vastly improved, offering many more oppourtunities for support conversations to occur, as opposed to the hard cap of total 5 conversations seen in most other games in the series. Marriages can also occur at S-rank support, leading to combat bonuses above and beyond those of other supports, as well as having actual significance to the plot later on. Finally, the map system offers complete freedom in how the player approaches their playthrough, with the ability to return to the map from preparations at any time before a battle is actually begun. DLC is handled tastefully, with reasonable prices ($4 for the first 3 maps in one package, each of which have lasting effects on the main campaign and can be played at any point) and the oppourtunity to still get most of the bonus units without paying anything extra.
Graphics: 10/10
Awakening, visually speaking, is a beautiful game. Occasional clipping errors occur in combat under certain circumstances, but these are only slight defects in an otherwise unmarred presentation. Cutscenes range from engine-driven events to fully rendered anime-styled sequences, and are absolutely stunning when viewed in 3D, though this is not required to enjoy them for what they are. In-game graphics are also handled well, with unit sprites keeping a retro sort of feel to them while still exhibiting great detail for the size of the sprite.
All in all, Fire Emblem: Awakening is easily one of the best titles for the 3DS, and is definitely well worth the money. Multiplayer wasn't experienced much at the time of this review, but the game still functions just fine without it.