Super Mario Strikers

"Soccer Gone Wrong"

Let me tell you this right now, Mario soccer is a pitiful experience when played alone. If you play this game with two or more players, it then turns into non stop fun.

Graphics 8
The graphics are bright and colorful, just the way Nintendo does all of their games. I was somewhat let down though, when I saw the art work for this game, I saw a gritty presentation of Mario and the gang. But once I turned the power on, they were back to their colorful characters, with a few cocky grins and grimmaces thrown in. But, it is nice to see Mario characters wearing something different for a change. Many people will love Donkey Kong's jersey, and think Peach is quite cute. The items, and stadiums look amazing too, but do not get to distracted.

Gameplay 7
Okay, there is no ref, so the game is somewhat unbalanced until you learn how to play. Basically, you can inflict pain onto your opponent, but, if you do something illegal, instead of being carded and stopping gameplay, the other person gets an item, or a speed burst, which can come back to hurt you worse. Basically, you have to learn how to play smart, knowing when to play cheap will pay off in the long run. Or you could just go nuts and play a wild game of soccer the way it was meant to be! There are a few special type of kicks, one timer shots that only the main character can perform, and the goalies are smart and are not effected by items as easily as everyone else. I was sad that there was little or no options to change your coaching, or to have more than one superstar per team, that would have been a site to see. Oh what else, watch out for Bowser.

Controls 9
It is a Mario game, so you know it will be simple and easy to do. Sadly yes, only four players can play this game, the PS2 gets six players, and the PS3 gets seven, so why does Nintendo stay at four? Anyway, your basic soccer moves are here, lob, pass, shoot, deke, poke, and big hit. Of course, do not forget the most important control, the item. Really easy to get down pat.

Sound 7
The sound is not that great, but since you are having such a blast, you kind of do not care. The music and sound effects could have used work, the characters should talk and taunt, Mario Golf and Mario Kart style, but they do not. Music is great though, have fun.

Tilt 6
Remember, this is a multiplayer game, if you do not have two, three or four people playing with you, this game seems like a wast of money. Nintendo really just wanted to get this game out before Christmas to increase sales. It is a solid game when played with friends, and if you have this game, Mario Kart, Super Smash Brothers Melee, and Mario Power Tennis, you have a line up of great Nintendo games for non stop fun. The options sadly are limited in this game, and as I said before, one player wise this game is weak.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 12/05/05