Super Mario 3D Land is the definitive 3DS title. If you want to see what the system is capable of, get this game.
GAMEPLAY - This game almost feels like a greatest hits collection of past Mario games. While you have the 3D levels made famous in the Galaxy games, you also have the occasional level devoted to the old school 2D set-ups. Both of these work rather well, and there have only been a couple of levels that I felt could have been done better. Aside from that, this is just Mario gameplay at its best. I'm not sure if it is the best in the series at what it does, but it definitely stands out compared to the countless other games in Mario's history. - 9.5/10
STORY - The story here is the same old Bowser kidnaps Peach concept. Not really anything more to say besides that. I give this an N/A just because it's been this way for so long that you can't expect much else. - N/A
GRAPHICS - The graphics are pretty awesome here. Especially when 3D mode is turned on. The puzzles and platforming can really shine while this mode is turned on, and you'll find yourself smiling at all the cool jumps you'll be able to pull off as you go through each level. Obviously the graphics aren't up to par with other systems, but as far as the 3DS goes, it doesn't get much better than this. - 9.5/10
SOUND - Pretty typical fare here as well. Not much voice acting to speak of, but the music is always appropriate for the setting. - 8/10
LENGTH/REPLAY VALUE - Replay value for this game is high due to the Star Coins you can collect, but length is pretty average, unfortunately. There are only 8 worlds with about 5 or 6 levels apiece. I would have liked to have seen at least a couple more worlds to really classify this game as having a good length to it. - 7.5/10
BOTTOM LINE - If you're going to start out with anything on the 3DS, this is it. Whether you're an old school Mario fan, someone who has gotten into the games recently, or even someone who was turned off to what his games have become in the past decade or so...give this game a try. It has a little bit of everything for everyone. Not only that, but it really shows what the 3D effect that the 3DS possesses can do. The only real downside is that it may be a little easy for some people, but it's such a fun time to play through that this can easily be overlooked. It is definitely one of the best titles available on the 3DS thus far. - 9/10