New Super Mario Bros. (Nintendo DS)

I think that the majority of gamers, whether old or new, are aware of the classic masterpiece, Mario Bros. But whilst the original Mario bros series was one of the most addictive, memorable selection of games in history, is it really necessary to meddle by releasing a new, updated one?
Turns out yes... yes it is.

When playing new Mario bros, it's apparent that whilst tons of new little features have been added, it's essentially a 3D homage to the original games. The new features are great fun however, with plenty of new items (the massive mushroom rules!), some new enemies, wireless multiplayer and a decent amount of mini-games to play around with (both in single and multiplayer).
Story-wise, they've definitely kept it old school: Peach gets kidnapped, you go after her. That's it. That's all it needs to be.

So essentially, the gameplay is exactly the same as older games. It's a side scrolling platformer where you've got to fight your way through worlds by completing a number of stages. The stages range from 30 seconds to around two minutes, and whilst that may not sound like much, there are over 50 stages, each one different in their own little way.

The graphics are great, mixing the original 2D visuals with 3D characters. Also, Mario's movements have changed a little. Various little animations, such as the triple jump from Mario 64, and jumping up walls from Super Mario Sunshine have been integrated, which adds just that little extra depth to levels, allowing for a variety of new platforming possibilities.

So is it worth getting? Yup. There's no reason not to really. It's a fun, addictive game. A retro remake done correctly! Which is a rare and wonderful thing!
The single player's lengthy, and there's definitely replay value... whether it's because you want to unlock the different routes through the worlds by collecting Star Coins, or play the mini-games, or cause you're bored, there are plenty of reasons why you'll be playing this game for quite awhile.

The Good: Addictive and fun - Doesn't stray from the Mario formula, but adds lots of new features - Plenty to do!

The Bad: If you don't like the original games, then you wouldn't like this.

VERDICT: The Mario Bro's return with an essential DS game.

The Mario franchise is one of the most beloved and respected within the gaming world with it's bright,camp,colourful and totally addictive game play with more prequels,sequels and spin-offs you can shake a stick at. Super Mario Bros. DS is a great game when I first got my DS this came with it. I was slightly disappointed I gotta say I actually thought this was just a remake but I got more and more into the game and totally fell in love with it I loved the genius of using the generic 2D formula with the 3d twist which is utterly gorgeous. As always moving further into the game is gains increasingly difficult once i got to world 8 and defeated Bowser for the umpteenth time over the last 15 years I realized I missed two of the stages worlds 4 & 7 I grew increasing frustrated with not knowing how to unlock them cut a long story short and managed to get them up and was satisfied.

After the I had completely finished the game with all gold star coins acquired I checked out the mini games not really expecting much and found myself playing them for hours on end totally unlike me the one that got me addicted was the poker game which a card game I love one night i found myself glancing at the clock one night and seeing 4:21am I kinda knew it was time to stop.

Kids won't just love this I'm 21 and I got my mum into this, my brother and a few of my cousins who all have DS' and occasionally play against each other in the Vs. mode.

I recommend this to anyone who loves Mario, new people to the wonderful DS and anyone else who want's to give it a go.

Graphics: 10/10

Story: 5/10

Gameplay: 10/10

Extras: 10/10

This game is very similar to previous mario games just 10 times better!! it even has mini games which are brilliant and it can keep you entertained for ages!! i would recommend this to anyone, it is by far the best game i have for my ds. Well worth £25!!