Strikers is the best entry in a 'Mario Sport' series due to its hectic, heartpounding gameplay and addictive nature.
Graphics: Overall, very nice. The mascots have never looked better, and it's awesome to see Next Level Games putting detail, smoothness and charm to the side-kick characters. The fields all look nice and rich in detail. Slow-mo effects, replays and blur background effects are pulled off very well. The only complaint is how grainy, cartoony and low-quality the crowd is, but this was half expected. The frame-rate occasionally drops (although not much) but ONLY when you are using the Super Team on certain fields. Bowser also jumps onto the field (although not playable) and wrecks havoc as you play. This is a frustrating addition to the game and can also cause minor frame-rate drops. However, you can turn this option 'off'.
Sound: Although the surprising lack of 'Mario' tunes, the tunes that are played are catchy and cool, especially during the replay shots. It adds to the reward when you get that killer goal. The sounds from the crowd are great and apart from the cheesy and repeated audio you hear from the characters, there's nothing to dislike about the sound. Good job.
Gameplay: Simple but deep enough to master strategies. Easy to pick-up but difficult to win against advanced computer opponents. The controls couldn't be better and the gameplay couldn't be more frantic and exciting. This is how gameplay should be for these sorts of titles. Although (for single player) you'll be spending the majority of your time in Grudge Match. This opens up to multiplayer, and although it can get confusing 'where you are' and 'what the **** is going on' you do get used to it after a few rounds, and it is bliss. And if you're working as a team, you need to communicate with each other on who gets the ball and who's shooting.
In all, this game delivered. Although the big lack of cool unlockables brings the value down, it's the raw gameplay that brings you back for more along with the multiplayer. If you're still up-in-the-air about this game, you should give this the benefit of the doubt, particularly if you have a GC. It may be a bit cheesy, but it's NOT kiddy. If you own a GC and like Mario, at the very least, check this game out.