Nintendo expected their new handheld 3DS system to sell like hot cakes... but it unfortunately didn't. There were not any games that were properly showing the capabilities of the revolutionary system, so it gave no incentive for consumers to buy it.
Now I just picked myself up a 3DS this week for the sole purpose of trying out the hyped game: Super Mario 3D Land. Let me first say that I wasn't sure what to expect. This applies to both the handheld itself and the game. Nintendo hasn't let me down in the past, so I felt at least some level of confidence (enough to make the purchase).
But as soon as I turned on the console and started playing, it was amazingly breathtaking. The 3D looked so real. I would consistently attempt to look at the 3D screen and try to see a 2D image, but it was messing with my brain... I just couldn't do it.
The 3DS absolutely lives up to its name. Lucky for Nintendo, Super Mario 3D Land was able to demonstrate the capabilities immensely. They included two modes on the game. The first mode is for "pop-out 3D", where it appears that Mario is actually jumping out of the screen. The second mode is for "indented 3D", where it appears that you are looking into a little box through the opening on your screen. Both demonstrate depth perception exceedingly well.
Console aside, the game is a mix between New Super Mario Bros, Super Mario Galaxy, and Super Mario Bros 3. You get to use that crazy tanooki suit again and it's just as fun as before. (Might I add cute) But you are not going to see the capability of turning to stone until you beat the first round of the game.
For all of the hard-core Mario fans, don't let this one slip through your fingertips. I know it is hard to shell out $150 for a new handheld, but let me assure you that it is totally worth it. If nothing else, sell it after you are done! Or even make your way to your local used-games store to see if anyone turned one in.
Everything in this game was done RIGHT by Nintendo. They didn't make stupid mistakes, and you can tell that is due to hard work and experience. Check out the game in stores to get the full 3D effect and enjoy the game!
If you love Super Mario 3D Land, then you are probably a fan of the Galaxy games. You should check out this site that calculated the Mario Galaxy 3 Release Date. Or just check out the entire site over at Super Mario Galaxy 3
