One of the best games on the 3DS. Real Score: 9/10
The game takes the feel of New Super Mario Bros. and gives it a three dimensional twist finding a nice blend of the two dimensional gameplay of the older Mario games and the three dimensional gameplay of the newer entries in the series, and thanks to the 3D capabilities of the 3DS creates a completely unique experience. The levels are linear much like the older games in the series, but the levels themselves are open to much more exploration like the newer games in the series. The game utilizes the 3D technology in a unique way that makes the 3D useful but not necessary for those turned off by the 3D or those looking to save their battery life. The way it works is that there are certain levels or in some cases, just small portions of the level, where the 3D comes in handy by adding depth to the levels, making jumping puzzles easier. The game even goes out of its way to notify you with a 3D icon in the corner of the screen that lets you know when turning the 3D capabilities on will be helpful.
There's quite a bit to do in Super Mario Land 3D as well. There are initially eight worlds, that may throw many longtime fans of the series for a loop, as you can probably run through them in a few hours, and this includes collecting all of the star coins. However once you complete the first eight worlds you unlock eight more. These eight worlds are harder variations of the original eight, but they are different enough that they will feel fresh and they offer some much needed difficulty to the game.
Of course the fan favorite Tanooki suit from Super Mario Bros. 3 back on the NES is finally back and the game seems to have been tailored for the use of that suit, as it's the suit that gamers will be most likely using to help get all the star coins.
The game looks very good, and it is without a doubt one of the best looking games on the 3DS. The 3D worlds come to life thanks to the 3DS's technology. Even playing with the 3D capabilities turned off the game still looks great, and depending on how you're looking at the screen possibly looks even better. This is what a game on the 3DS should strive to be in terms of how it uses the games 3D capabilities. The game works just as well with the 3D settings on as it does off, but there are certain points in the game where the 3D is helpful.
The traditional Mario music is found here along with some new tracks. Anyone who has played any Mario game before will know what to expect here and there's not a whole lot more to say about it.
For anyone on the fence about buying a 3DS, Super Mario Land 3D is a reason to buy the system. Upon its release it was really the first great game on the system that wasn't a port of another game. Of course if you already own a 3DS, there is no reason for you to not buy this game. This is the kind of game that people buy Nintendo consoles for.
Gameplay: 9/10
Graphics: 9/10
Sound: 8/10
Value: 9/10
Tilt: 10/10