Finally beat the game! The stages are pretty easy single player (with the exception of a few stars), though I must agree with everyone how well designed the stages are. 9-7 was pretty tough, though I managed a 3 star run (starting small) after the 5th try. It's easy if you 9-4's last star gave me more trouble, I'd get hit at the end every time...
Most of the secrets in the game aren't too bad, other than some of the secret paths, most of the stars can be found without hint movies (I only needed help with 2). It's also easier to find with multiplayer (more eyes / players does wonders).
Ah, damn. I'm really amazed at how great this game turned out. We really do need more great 2D games nowadays. The genre needs some games with the AAA treatment!
Alright, off to find the last of the secret exits for my 5th star!
edit: And I'm done! I was only missing the warp from World 5. I've already managed 40 hours on this game, with much more to come thanks to its replayability / multiplayer. 2009 wasn't so bad for Nintendo after all...
