Pros: A return to the challenge of Mario's sidescroling past.

Inventive, often brilliant level design.

Oodles of secret exits, power ups, and other hidden goodies.

Lengthy for a platformer.

Crisp, beautiful visuals.

Classic Nintendo control: tight and responsive.

Fun local multiplayer.

Excellent challenge modes.

Though I am loath to use it, Super Guide allows an automated playthrough of levels if the going gets too tough. Will be a great option for novices or casual players.

Cons: Gyroscope levels (so far I've only encountered two, but like all motion controls, they feel imprecise compared to the tight responsiveness of buttons and a D-pad.)

Other Thoughts: This is a return to form for Mario in my view. Here we have a challenging (at times brutally difficult, requiring perfect timing and reflexes,) lengthy, meaty Mario platformer that harkens back to the SNES era. This is what I've wanted a Mario game to be for a long, long time... with the sole caveat of rare instances of gyroscope control.

Pros: I have always been a fan of Super Mario, but now I love it more than before since everybody can enjoy crisp colors thanks to the game being HD.

Cons: None!

Other Thoughts: I'm still getting used to playing with the game pad since it is a little bit heavy, but no a big deal... I just wish I had more time to be able to play more d:-P

Pros: This game actually is a nice combination of classic Super Mario Brothers 3 and Super Mario World. Taking advantage of gamepad play to watch TV, it can also be played on the big screen as well. This game is similar to others in the "New" series in regards to finding secret exits, finding star coins, and other side quests to give this game a lot of re playability.

The big new thing for this game is Challenge mode, where you have to complete certain tasks in a certain amount of time. This is why the most die hard Mario or hard core gamer will find difficulty and be satisfied with the challenge.

While this game offers something for everyone of all skill sets, it is a pleasant surprise over the past few iterations of Mario in regards to level design and challenge.

Cons: The only thing that is frustrating is no on-line play. I realize Nintendo is hesitant to this idea and are the LAST company to offer such things, but the likelihood of me finding several people to play with in my house is pretty slim and would be much easier with friends or randoms on-line.

For serious gamers, or those with Mario experience, there is really no worry of seeing a game over screen. I believe I was at 60 lives after World 1. However, there were certain maps in the second half of the game that brought more challenge.

Other Thoughts: If you own a Wii U, this is a must have gave. While it doesn't utilize the gamepad to its potential, the game itself will offer lots of entertainment and fun, which is what separates Nintendo from its competition.

Pros: Excellent game, a must-have for your Wii U collection. Levels were challenging especially towards the end.

Cons: I wish there were more levels, although I believe there will be DLC in the future.

Other Thoughts: Crisp HD quality. Took me about 16 hours to finish the entire game.

Pros: Sharp. HD. Finally. Mario games have always been pretty but now its gorgeous. There are so many ways to play. The "world" screen is seamless. Brings back fond memories of Super Mario World. More challenging than previous titles but also more fun. I can't wait to dive into it further.

Cons: none.

Other Thoughts: Finally Nintendo games in HD. Way overdue but worth the wait. If you are a long-time Mario fan, this is a must.