Product Review: Mario Sports Superstars for Nintendo 3DS

Mario Sports Superstars for Nintendo 3DS

When offered a chance to review Nintendo’s Mario Sports Superstars on the 3DS gaming system, I hesitated. I not a “gamer.” I’d much rather play an actual round of golf than a simulated game on a handheld. That said, it was March in Northeast Ohio and snow was still in the forecast. I gave it a shot.

Not wanting to fight my 6-year-old son for his 3DS, I waited on his bedtime, grabbed the system and downloaded the game.

First things first ... This game is meant to be fun and whimsical. We’re not talking about the realism of the Tiger Woods video game that has lifelike people playing on courses that look eerily similar to the actual tracks played on Tour. You can choose to play with Mario, Luigi, Yoshi, Donkey Kong, etc.

Game play is easy and enjoyable

Once you’ve picked golf (the game also includes soccer, baseball, tennis and horse racing), you then choose single or multiplayer. Next, do you want to play a tournament or stroke play? Tournaments are 3-hole match play events. Stroke play can be 9, 6 or 3 holes. I chose 9 holes of stroke play.

I also decided to go with the big-hitting Bowser. His distance off the tee is listed at 230 yards with a fade. For the record, Baby Luigi is the shortest of the options - measuring in at only 205 yards with a driver. Most are between 215-220 yards.

Next, what course do you want to play? There’s Emerald Woods, Gold Links or Crystal Beach. Who doesn’t like the beach? I chose the seaside track.

Actual play can de dictated, too. Do you want to play regular tees, back tees or tournament tees? How about the wind - weak, strong or random?

Game play was simple - Hit the A button to start the swing and again when the power bar reaches the suggested point. You do have to read the greens when putting (motion arrows tell you which way the putt will break) and wind can affect ball flight, but nothing too complicated.

Overall, Mario Sports Superstars was a very enjoyable game. My son preferred soccer over the other options and had the most difficulty understanding the baseball controls. Not surprising as there’s a bit more to manipulate.

Whether you’re looking for a gift for your kid or want to enjoy it yourself, I’d recommend picking up this title. Check it out at mariosportssuperstars.nintendo.com.