Super Mario 64 DS: Mario 64 on a handheld? Count me in.
MetalliCube
90% score
Being a huge fan of the origional Mario 64 on the N64, (I think it's one of the best games of all time), there's really no way I could have found a handheld port of the game with extras to be a bad game. In fact, overall, it's surprisingly just about as good as the origional, graphics and gameplay. The added minigames, although fun, aren't really necessary, and even after you've mastered the game, they won't be enough to keep you entertained for long. I do like how they've incorporated the new characters with their own strengths and weaknesses into the game. There is also some other little things added to the game like small extra levels that will give you reason enough to play this classic again after playing it on N64. The gameplay is as great as it's always been for the most part. My only beef with this game is that the controls can be awkward, at least when you first start playing. This game seems to be meant for a joystick, and the analogue buttons just don't feel right. You can use the stylus to move if you choose, which is an interesting idea, but this feels even more awkward. However, if you can learn to get use to the controls, you'll find yourself reliving the excellent gameplay that Mario 64 DS has to offer. If you have a DS, do yourself a favor and buy this. Not just because there are only a few DS games worth getting right now, but because this is actually a great launch title, that lives up and in some way exceeds the old classic.
