New Super Mario Bros. brings back what we all loved about the series, and simply perfects it all in one great package!
Graphics- As far as graphics are concerned, you can expect a wide pallete of colorful backgrounds, and well modeled 3D characters. Nintendo has done an outstanding job of combining both the 3D and 2D elements. The 3D gives you the wondrous feel of Super Mario 64, while the 2D brings back the fond memories! However, some of the 3D models do look a little pixelated at times, but it certainly isn't anything that constantly catches your attention all that often.
Gameplay- Mario was the one to revolutionize games 20 years ago, and he is still doing it today! The gameplay from the minute you pick up this game rushes all of those Super Mario skills, talents, and memories all to your head! As expected, the game is a 2D/3D sidescroller filled with lots of goomba jumping, platform hopping, and princess saving enjoyment. The stages are fairly easy if your objective is just to get to the flagpole, but if you are going for those secrets and extra levels (which most of us are), then this game will seem to put up quite the challenge. There can be several points of frustration with levels in the game which, I must say, feels great! I cannot describe how much this game sticks to its roots, but yet still brings the fresh feeling at the same time. Oh yeah, and the fireworks from the flagpole help bring all the memories back too!
Sound- This game features a lot of both new music, and reworked old school music. You will hear the classic star music, odd sounds when Mario gets a mushroom, and outstanding background music! To sum the music up for this game, it just feels like Mario....and there isn't anything wrong with that!
Value- New Super Mario Bros. is all about value. If the secret levels and worlds aren't enough to keep you busy, there are always the minigames. I must say however, I am a bit disappointed with the minigames due to the fact that a lot of them are the same ones as in Super Mario 64 DS. For those of you who didn't pick up a copy of Super Mario 64, well, enjoy! Other than minigames, there is also a multiplayer mode where you race against your friend! It may not be the most glorified thing, but it does help increase the replay value quite a bit. As a fan of the Super Mario series, and a longtime player, I must say that this is a fantastic game. It easily ranks up there with Mario kart DS, and of course the old school fans!