It smells and looks like a mario game, but doesn't have the right mix of the classic elements to make it as special.
Graphics--Graphics are probably the best selling point of the game. It's very colorful and definately captures the signature look Mario games traditionally have.
Gameplay-This is the most critical ingredient that makes a solid platformer and in my opinion Princess Peach falls drastically short. To its credit, the controls are solid and there are some unique elements that try to keep the gameplay fresh. I was definately intrigued by the 'vibe' system and think that there was amazing potential in this gameplay element, however I feel that Nintendo squandered it. You start off with all of your vibes in the beginning of the game and can pretty much cruise through every level without too much skill. I think it would have been much more effective to start off with 1-2 vibes and learn more as the game goes on rather than give you everything you need all at once. As a result, the only sense of advancement you feel is getting more hearts/vibe energy.
Mario/platformer enthusiasts would argue with me that Mario could have all the abilities he needed in the game at the beginning and they would be right. The difference with other platformers and this game is that as you advance in a solid platformer, you usually need to develop a stronger skill set so that you feel a sense of accomplishment when you beat a level. Not so with Princess Peach. I cruised through the first 4 worlds in about 3 hours first time through and I was bored in doing it. There is very little sense of challenge or wonder in playing this game. A good platformer, especially a Mario game, has a sense of exploring and discovery within each world. Mario games call you to explore the world and even spark your imagination. Not so with Princess Peach. Though there is some exploration, the levels are pretty simple and the few 'secrets' can be easily found because the game practically points you to their location. I never was compelled to search a level and explore. As I continued to play the game, I found myself getting annoyed and trying to get through the level as quickly as possible to get to my next destination rather than enjoy the level I was playing. The last activity that I partook in that had me focused more on finishing than enjoying the moment was my job which is exactly what this game feels like.
Lastly and I will move on is the fact that the pacing in this game is bad. I stated earlier that it took me 3 hours to beat 4 worlds. I would have been done with the worlds sooner if the pacing was faster. Instead they drag everything out and make playing the game an exercise rather than entertainment.
Sound--The best way to sum up the music is that the soundtrack sounds like b-sides of mario tunes. Each song is decent, but forgettable and sounds like they used to be songs that hit the cutting room floor from previous Mario games.
Value--There is very little value in owning this game and I think the developers knew that. The game is littered with pointless mini-games that do not compel you to play them. Who cares how long it takes me to put a puzzle together? It almost feels like that the developers could tell how shallow the game was and threw in mini-games to try to add a sense of replay value. IT didn't work...at least not for me.
Overall: All in all, Super Princess Peach is a fair game that is best suited for beginners or children who are learning how to play videogames. Mario lovers beware; the game may look like its in the vein of Mario...but it doesn't even come close. The game does sport occasional moments of brilliance, however these moments are merely flashes in a pan and only come around every so often. If you're looking for a timeless and enjoyable platformer, this game is not for you. The poor pacing, extremely low difficulty, and lack of charm will keep many gamers from being satisfied. If you are a person who gets easily frustrated at harder games...it may be a nice introduction to the mario universe. Rent it before you buy...if you can.