In 2006, New Super Mario Bros. was released for the Nintendo DS to critical praise by critics and gamers alike for Mario’s return to his side-scrolling glory that had been absent for 15 years. Continue reading for the review! - TiNKER
Plot
Mario and Peach are taking a stroll through the Mushroom Kingdom when suddenly, a lightning cloud appears above Peach’s Castle. Mario heads off to the castle to investigate. Without delay, Bowser Jr. shows up and captures Princess Peach with Mario in pursuit. The game then becomes a chase of Cat and Mouse with Mario chasing after Bowser Jr. all throughout the Mushroom Kingdom to rescue Princess Peach.
Presentation
This entry in the Mario series features the return of many elements from past Mario games. The overworld map made famous in Super Mario Bros. 3 and Super Mario World. Mushroom Houses from SMB3 make a return with Toad providing you with power-ups and other helpful items. The game has decent graphics for a DS title and do a good job of collecting the feel of 3D Mario and 2D Mario in one game. One complaint are the bland map designs, I know that has nothing to do with the actual gameplay but the maps feel like the world you’re exploring is very bland and unappealing.
Gameplay
For players of classic Mario games, this game will feel very smooth and fun. Gamers who have never played a classic, side-scrolling Mario game in the lives, this game might be a little frustrating to some.
New power-ups to be featured in New Super Mario Bros. include the Mega Mushroom, the Mini Mushroom, and the Blue Shell. Returning power-ups include the Fire Flower, the Super Mushroom, and the 1-Up Mushroom. Probably one the most forgetful group of power-ups in a Mario game, but they are still very fun and useful.
Conclusion
New Super Mario Bros. is nothing revolutionary but it can satisfy any kind of gamer. It also builds upon the method of gaming made famous by Mario in the 80s and 90s and proves that it can stand strong in the 21st Century. The game’s sequel New Super Mario Bros. Wii would improve on this style of gaming and prove to be a better game. New Super Mario Bros. is a fun and addicting Mario game that offers nothing new but can still offer people good times in the Mushroom Kingdom.