9.0 Presentation
The only letdown is that the extras are recycled mini-games from Super Mario 64 DS. Outside of that, this game is rediculously well designed.
9.0 Graphics
Really slick hybrid 2D/3D engine enables level designers to pull off some awesome effects and gameplay elements, stuff that just weren't possible back in the 2D days.
9.0 Sound
Classic Mario soundtrack with the enhancement of Mario vocals to begin and cap off each level.
10 Gameplay
Absolutely brilliant platforming action that takes what Nintendo's built an empire on, and adding so much more to it. It's not a tremendous challenge, but the game is fun as hell from start to end.
9.0 Lasting Appeal
If you just want to blow through the game from first castle to final battle, it's over in just a few hours. But there's so much more, including hidden levels and single cart multiplayer challenges.
9.5
Incredible OVERALL
(out of 10 / not an average)