Super Mario 3D Land (2011)

Platformers that are full of features can be a reason to concern about when it comes to replayability. If I were to play this game again, in another file since the beginning, I couldn't play it but covering certain conditions to just be able to advance. It'd be like having fun under certain conditions, and that doesn't sound right.

But hey, from a certain point onwards, I played under a certain condition: not catching power-ups, Full Mario or Full Luigi, to see how the game responded to these avatar's basic moveset. But that's a realistic approach I could conceive after experiencing what the game offered me firsthand, and it was auto imposed, not imposed by the game.

The difference is that the first thing is totally a barrier that didn't feel really good. The problem, just to say it, is the necessity of having a certain number of special coins to unlock levels. If someone just plays fast without exploring will find this "issue". It's like the game is taming you, but for some reason that's not really "bad" by definition. But depends on the videogame. In this case it's a really well designed platformer, even when the "exploration for coins" aspect doesn't work the same way in all levels. Some times are slightly separated from your way, others aren't. Specially for a first-timer, the greatest joy is to discover how approachable are all levels, even the ones that have autoscroll or waiting sections. Now that I think about it, that's really a highlight. They all have a perfect length, really.

And to finish: versatility. Even when this 3D Mario takes the "transformist Mario" approach, it doesn't lead it to a full scope. The levels (most of them) are prepared for a lot of surprises and mechanic ability if you want to go Full Mario/Luigi without power-ups, just with your basic moveset. A decision like this, not really radical as I see, makes one wonder in what extent has Mario changed from his first games. Super Mario 3D Land can be "exactly" like Super Mario Bros. 1, 2 (The Lost Levels) or 3, but all that has changed is the way to construct it and see it.

Mario is back on the mobile gaming scene and for the first time he is in 3D on a portable. Super Mario 3D Land came to the 3DS very early in its lifespan. I didn't buy a 3DS until 2015 - so I missed the initial hype. Luckily, Super Mario 3D Land aged extremely well. Few games on the 3DS fully recognize the potential of the 3D the system can offer. In fact Nintendo realizing this wasn't that popular with consumers eventually improved the 3D with the new 3DS line and also released the 2DS models that do not have 3D functionality. Since 3D Land precedes all of this the game integrates 3D elements more effectively than any other title on the system. These 3D elements are amazing and really add something to the gameplay. If you are going to play 3D Land do it with the 3D on!

In terms of gameplay and level design Nintendo decided to lighten the experience of a traditional 3D Mario. Not only are the levels in 3D Land much easier than those of Mario galaxy they also feel more linear. Many people suggest that 3D Land and 3D world are more of a mix of 3D and 2D Mario. I tend to agree. Many of the stages feel more like a linear challenge with 3 different depths (similar to little big planet) rather than a full 3D experience.

For a portable title these simple levels are probably a good choice as it makes the game more accessible for both young audiences and those who wish to game on the go. When you beat the main levels of the game you will probably have every single coin and still want more. Luckily, there are a ton of bonus stages that offer more gameplay and slightly more challenge.

Playing Mario on the go is great. Since I bought 3D Land from the E-Shop I almost always end up playing it when I'm on the train. Levels are fun short and easily enjoyed - even when you don't have that much time or attention for them. I still feel as though the game never reaches its full potential. Even though you'll have a blast there aren't memorable moments in the game because you'll breeze through it so easily. This is a must have game for every 3DS owner.