Super Mario 3D Land

🎮 Nintendo 3DS ⏳ 18 hours ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

2D-3D Perfect Bridge #

This Super Mario entry is a clever and joyful platformer that perfectly bridges the gap between the classic 2D Mario formula and the free-roaming 3D style introduced in games like Super Mario 64. Designed specifically for the 3DS, it takes full advantage of the system’s stereoscopic 3D to create depth perception in jumps, enemy placement, and hidden paths, making the handheld’s gimmick feel purposeful rather than just a novelty.

Bite-Sized Clever Levels #

The level design strikes a balance between short, digestible stages for handheld play and the kind of inventive, surprising challenges Mario games are known for. Each stage feels tightly crafted, often introducing a new idea and exploring it just enough before moving on to the next. The return of the Tanooki Suit adds a nostalgic charm, while other classic power-ups like the Fire Flower ensure gameplay variety. Although it has shorter levels, it still has some secrets, traditional to the Mario franchise, so keep on the lookout for those while playing.

Rewarding Post-Game Challenge #

While the main story can be completed without much struggle, the game shines in its post-game content, where the difficulty ramps up and players are rewarded with more intricate stages and clever twists. Particularly speaking I did 100% of this game, and I highly recommend doing so, the extra optional content is a very good experience, to the same level as regular non-handheld Mario titles. The visuals are vibrant and crisp, the soundtrack is upbeat and catchy, and the overall presentation has that trademark Nintendo polish.

Portable Mario Excellence #

It may not reach the grand scope of Mario’s bigger console adventures, but as a portable experience, Super Mario 3D Land excels. It’s accessible, fun, and full of surprises, making it not just one of the strongest titles on the 3DS, but also a great entry in the Mario series as a whole. If you like platformers to any extent, this one is a must-play, I recommend trying to play one of the recent re-releases, as for me, I went with the OG title, which is also a good option.