Return of the 2D

Mario's getting back to his roots in this new 2D platformer, and I'm glad to say the game delivers. Aside from a few new power ups, this game is an excellent blend of Mario 3 and Mario World. Of course, if you've played it's DS predecessor you already know all that. The helicopter helmet has to be my favorite addition since it gives so much vertical freedom. It's more limited in distance than previous flight modes like the cape, but the use-anywhere convenience can't be beat.

As entertaining as the single player is, the most intriguing bit is the coop mode. I've only gotten to try a few levels of this so far, but it really makes the game completely different. First off, so long as at least one player lives the level continues. After a bit, the dead float back onscreen in a bubble. This is both good and bad. Mario had a nasty tendency of dropping his newly resurrected friends down pits that night. Speaking of pits, the platforming becomes even trickier since you can get in each other's way! Be kind, and don't use your partner as a stepping stool.

This was only with two people. I can only imagine the chaos of a full four players!