IGN:-
http://wii.ign.com/articles/104/1044744p2.html
Closing Comments
I really, really like New Super Mario Bros. Wii. I have no qualms with saying this is a far better game than the Nintendo DS version, and it could easily be the finest Super Mario Bros. 2D platformer Nintendo's ever created. You should absolutely get a copy, no question.
But, and it's a big "but," Nintendo did not use this opportunity wisely. For as big a project as this could have been, this game's impact is weakened by many factors. It plays it safe with established gameplay with very little in the way of new innovation. It also lacks online multiplayer in a generation where such a feature is expected.
I had a great time plowing through all eight worlds (and then some), but the nagging feeling of it seeming like a step backwards kept creeping in. As a gamer I love New Super Mario Bros. Wii, but as a critic I just couldn't let the issues slide.
| Rating | Description |  |
|---|---|---|
| out of 10 | click here for ratings guide |
|
| 7.5 | Presentation Nintendo gives us the status quo here, not going above and beyond in features. |
|
| 7.5 | Graphics Very modest visuals: 3D characters, 2D backgrounds, with the occasional lighting effect. |
|
| 8.0 | Sound The Mario soundtrack has some great old favorites and some fun new ditties. |
|
| 9.5 | Gameplay Brilliant 2D platforming and challenges makes this the best of the 2D Mario best. |
|
| 9.0 | Lasting Appeal The multiplayer aspect makes this a game you'll come back to again and again. |
|
| 8.9 |
OVERALL (out of 10 / not an average) |
 |
IGN (AU):-
http://wii.ign.com/articles/104/1043698p1.html
Closing Comments
Whether or not this is the best Mario game to date is purely a matter of personal tastes; it's certainly the most humble on outward appearances. The red game case – a bold and loud statement of fun – is the first indicator that there's something special under the hood in this one. Still sorting the men from the boys after 20 years, Mario and Luigi's new adventure is not important because it's the continuation of a franchise we know and love – rather, it's because New Super Mario Bros. Wii demonstrates one more time why Nintendo are masters of the all-ages gaming market; relevant and refreshing but at all times reverent and above all, incredible fun.
| Rating | Description | |
|---|---|---|
| out of 10 | click here for ratings guide |
|
| 9.0 | Presentation It's Mario through and through - from the chunky menus and familiar HUD to the use of colour. Even the overworld maps offer strategy and challenge. |
|
| 8.0 | Graphics Certainly simple but effective; NSMB Wii adheres to a traditional Mario design ethic, blending 2D and 3D with a minimum of flair and fuss, but always retaining clarity. |
|
| 8.5 | Sound A great soundtrack that sets the dial to 'fun' and doesn't relent. The classic sound effects are a great and evocative nod to past Mario games, while Mario himself quips away gleefully. |
|
| 9.5 | Gameplay Platforming has rarely been done better; NSMB Wii blends great course design with multiplayer --and it nails it. A true all-ages gaming experience that will still test your mettle and surprise you. |
|
| 9.0 | Lasting Appeal The lack of score table and online hurts, but the eight worlds are large and bursting with secrets waiting to be found. The multiplayer is joyous and compelling. Domo, Nintendo. |
|
| 9.2 |
OVERALL (out of 10 / not an average) |
|
