Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

New Super Mario Bros. brings back the classic 2D side-scrolling action that fans have cherished for decades, yet it packs in fresh mechanics that revitalize the series. Mario and Luigi return after nearly fifteen years in a traditional format, and the core platforming feels as tight and responsive as ever. The controls are intuitive, whether you’re sprinting across perilous pits, wall-jumping up tall barriers, or performing the series’ signature ground pound.

One of the standout features is the real-time 3D character modeling. Although the levels themselves remain on a 2D plane, Mario and company benefit from a fully rendered, three-dimensional look. This approach allows for an expanded move set not previously possible in classic titles. From spin jumps to midair tweaks, there’s a satisfying weight and flair to each action, making the traversal of each level both familiar and excitingly new.

The Nintendo DS’s dual screens and touch capabilities further enhance the experience. Players can store an extra power-up on the bottom screen, giving a strategic layer to your item management. An on-screen map also shows how much ground remains in a level, so you can plan your next move and decide whether to rush forward or explore every nook for secrets.

Across eight unique worlds—Plains, Desert, Tropical Island, Forest, Ice, Mountains, Sky, and Bowser’s Lair—there are eighty distinct levels filled with cleverly designed obstacles and hidden routes. From secret warp pipes to concealed coin caches, exploration is rewarded with new power-ups like the Mega Mushroom and Koopa Shell. These additions keep veteran players on their toes while remaining accessible to newcomers.

Graphics

New Super Mario Bros. achieves a delicate balance between nostalgia and modern visual polish. Leveraging the DS’s hardware, the game renders character models in real time 3D, making Mario, Luigi, and foes pop off the screen with vivid color and smooth animations. The expressive motions—whether a triumphant fist pump after grabbing a flagpole or a comedic stumble after a misstep—add personality to every run.

Each world boasts its own visual identity. The Desert sands have subtle ripples that shift in the light, while the Ice levels glisten with frosty textures and reflective surfaces. Even the Forest and Tropical Island themes include parallax scrolling backgrounds, giving depth to the scenery without ever sacrificing the clarity of the gameplay plane.

The frame rate remains rock-steady throughout, even when multiple enemies and projectiles fill the screen. Occasional touches—like scattering leaves in the Windy Plains or swirling snowflakes in the Ice World—demonstrate an attention to detail that makes each environment feel alive. On the DS’s modestly sized screens, these effects shine without ever cluttering the action.

Story

The narrative in New Super Mario Bros. is delightfully simple, delivering the classic Mario storyline fans adore. Princess Peach has once again been kidnapped by Bowser and his cunning son, Bowser Jr., setting the stage for a heroic rescue mission. It’s a familiar premise, but the journey through eight varied worlds ensures the tale never grows stale.

As you progress, brief cutscenes illustrate the perpetual rivalry between Mario and Bowser. The dialogue is minimal but charming, relying on expressive sprite work and classic musical cues to convey emotion. Every world culminates in a showdown—whether it’s a Hammer Bros. gauntlet, a treacherous airship, or Bowser’s fiery lair—each boss fight punctuates the story with escalating tension.

Beyond the main quest, hidden alcoves and secret exits hint at a larger world lurking beneath the surface. Discovering warp whistles and Toad houses adds layers to the narrative, suggesting that Peach’s kingdom is not only vast but also brimming with surprises. It’s a subtle storytelling technique that rewards the curious player and extends replay value.

Overall Experience

New Super Mario Bros. strikes a masterful chord by honoring its heritage while boldly introducing new elements. The blend of traditional side-scrolling gameplay with 3D visuals and DS-specific features creates a package that feels both timeless and innovative. Whether you’re a lifelong Mario aficionado or a newcomer curious about the plumber’s latest adventure, there’s something here for everyone.

The level design is consistently inventive, balancing straightforward stages perfect for beginners with hidden challenges that will test even the most seasoned players. The introduction of fresh power-ups and secret paths encourages exploration, and the carefully tuned difficulty curve means that triumphs feel genuinely earned.

With its captivating visuals, polished mechanics, and signature Mario charm, New Super Mario Bros. delivers an experience that resonates long after the final credits roll. It’s an essential addition to any DS library and a shining example of how to reinvigorate a classic franchise without losing the magic that made it beloved in the first place.

Retro Replay Score

8.4/10