As long as there has been Nintendo, there has been Mario. Super Mario 3D Land is a clear demonstration of why that is the case. The game features classic characters such as Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Toad and Bowser in a familiar side-scrolling format that can be played either in 2D or 3D via a sliding control on the 3DS console. Players navigate through eight worlds of increasing difficulty by running, climbing and jumping through a variety of enemies and obstacles. The game play is as simple and easy to learn as it is entertaining and downright addictive. Children and adults alike can enjoy this game without cumbersome controls or over-complicated plot lines. Though this is a one player game, using the console's StreetPass feature, players can share and trade special Mystery Boxes with other players that they "pass" by on the street. As with all games in the series, Super Mario 3D Land is a fun and wholesome alternative to the violent games that have recently saturated the video game market.