3. Super Mario 3D Land
If theres one thing about the 3DS that most can agree on, ironically, its best to keep the 3D off. Not only does it drain the battery, it drains the nerves in your eyeballs, and too few games have made proper use of the systems titular function. But Nintendo always seems to know how to craft incredible games out of its bizarre hardware, especially when it comes to Mario. The N64s wacky controller worked perfectly with Super Mario 64, as it was literally built for it. Super Mario Galaxy used the gimmicky Wii-mote in subtle and amazing ways. And Super Mario 3D Land proved not only that 3D gaming can work, but that it can be outstanding. Like the best 3D films, 3D world engages you not by throwing a bunch of crap in your face, but by immersing you in the action on screen. Even with the 3D turned off - which it should never be when playing this game the level designs and the overall appeal of the colorful visuals are enough to captivate most players. However, as charming as the game is visually, Mario games have never gotten by on good looks alone. The series is rooted in arguably the best gameplay in the business, and 3D World continues that tradition. Combining the best of 2D and 3D Mario, old Jumpman has never controlled better. Mario is extremely responsive to the analog nub, resulting in an experience that is pure and precise. When you die in this game, its almost guaranteed that it was your fault and not the games. Show some accountability. Speaking of death, many people accuse this game, and most of the iconic plumbers recent outings, of being too easy. They cite classics like Super Mario Bros. 3 and Super Mario World as examples of how to be accessible and fun while still being challenging. But Ive seen newcomers play these newer games and die frequently, so maybe theyre not really dumbing the formula down. Games like 3D World are so polished and play so naturally, they deceive us into thinking were getting off easily. Thats what makes Mario so special: he makes having fun seem so effortless.