A refreshing game that batters the cliches
So with that out the way I can get onto what the game is, how it plays, looks etc.
This game is a football game where you take charge of the Mario characters and battle it out against other characters. There are 9 characters in all (8 to start with and a super team to unlock). Taking part in tournaments unlocks the secret team aswell as extra pitches. Aside from your character you can choose your teamates, whether they be defensive Toads, attacking Birdos, powerful Hammer Bros. or the all round Koopas.
The football isn't played normally however, it is a five aside match to start with so thre aren't any tactics, formations or set pieces to get in the way. It is end to end action with nail biting endings.
Aswell as the different setting there are also weapons, electric fences and lunge tackles to use at your disposal, and the fact that there is no referee means nothing is illegal.
On the whole this means a blistering pace football game with the inclusion of Mario, so all is great.
Another addiction is the Super Strike, this is similar to the Power moves in Smash Tennis but requires some skill as only your captain/character can do it and you must get the timing right. Also in multiplayer and on harder difficulties your opponents will often be able to stop you mid attack so this doesn't ruin the game, it enhances it.
There is bad stuff in here however, slowdown can pop up but this is only when Bowser comes and it is slight. It is also a pretty short game and unless you play multiplayer it isn't worth paying full price.
Also it isn't Mario enough, other than the characters and the pitch names (even the pitch doesn't look anything near Mario) the game could have any brand on it and be the same. Seeing as there are so few references to Mario it would have been better for a Super Smash Football/Strikers that included all Nintendo characters.
There is one thing that pops into your mind a lot however, this game could have been SOOOOOO much bettter with another month or two in development. There loads of little Mario touches that could have been put in and if the game was just that little bit beefier it could have been an 8.5+. Hopefull a superior sequal will be released.
Graphics
Don't push the system but look good nontheless, just like all other Mario games. Bright, colourful and very clean
Gameplay
Like nothing before, truly hectic. The only niggle is the slight slowdown you can experience, especially when Bowser jumps on the pitch.
Sound
Nothing special but not irritating
Value
In single player it can get boring after you have finnished it. But in Multiplayer it is one of the best