overdrive's Super Mario 3D Land review

I definitely wasn't expecting a comparison to Kirby's Adventure when reading this! The way you describe how there isn't any true consistency with the theme kinda makes me want to try this out more now. I've also had trouble picking a "traditional" Mario game to jump back into series, since the last Mario game I recall playing from start to finish was Super Mario 64, and the last Mario game I tried playing was Galaxy 1.

Good, informative review! Though, I guess if I were to be nitpicky, I didn't actually grasp how the 3D works in this game from what you explained. Is it implemented into the gameplay, or is is just for show?

Kind of a combination. Hard to put into words, but it's a lot for show (more effectively than, say Shin Megami Tensai IV, where I turn off the 3D since all it does is bother my eyes a bit), but it is integrated into the gameplay. There are a couple rooms you access via pipe where you kind of need the 3D to see how to get to the top and the added depth it provides does seem to be integrated into things. I guess the best way to describe it would be that the 3D isn't completely necessary, but it does add to the experience.

Ah, I see. Thanks!