Good old Mario returns, in a fun-to-play 2D platformer

User Rating: 9 | New Super Mario Bros. DS
Say what you like but nothing truly beats a 2D sidescroller. Yes, theres those fancy 3D shoot em ups, and those kill everything thats around you smash em ups and the ever popular smack-whack-button mash beat em ups but.... a good side scroller is just the thing you need to play in between, in replacement and instead of.

2D platformers havent changed much over the years. A simple concept that doesnt need its formula messed with. New Super Mario Bros. manages to stick to what Mario does best. Running, jumping and squashing them foes dead.

Stage designs are as colourful as ever, with the occasional challenging swimming level. The different worlds are also very beautiful and well detailed. The music is whacky yet catchy. Written really well, I barely got irritated with the loop tracks.

Boss fights, however, are still too easy. Fireballs make it easier. Something more of a challenge like a Castlevania boss would make me love this even more.

Difficulty is medium at best. Newbies will find it okay, but veterans can clear this quite quickly. A difficulty curve thats a bit more slanted wouldve been welcome. (Something like Mario Brothers World).

Overall, fun. And thats all I need in a game...