NSMB2 is an exceptional game in the eyes of reviewers

[d21lewis]

VicViper said:

It's funny that people still use Doki Doki Panic as a real Mario game and not the real Mario 2.
And Yoshi's Island too - which became it's own series - do you consider Yoshi's Island DS a Mario game too? - because the change there was great from the previous one - why don't include it then?

If Yoshi's counting, why don't you people try Super Princess Peach or Wario World (and Land) for changes in 2D platforms in the same universe. After all, they must be "Mario" games too. Even DK country should too, since it's from the same universe - after all DK is a Mario character.

In the end, it's all just because Nintendo hasn't changed much the visual style of the game.

Yeah, we all know about Doki Doki and what not.  It's just that Nintendo says "This is Super Mario Bros. 2" or Yoshi's Island is "Super Mario World 2".  We don't get such distinction from Nintendo themselves when it comes to  the Wario games or Princess Peach.  Hope that helps ya, Fox!

*note to self*  Order Yoshi's Island DS from Amazon.com today