New Super Mario Bros. review

New Super Mario Bros. ranks second because it is the easiest great game on the DS to start and it is still cheap to own. Nintendo describes it as Super Mario's first 2D platformer since Super Mario World, with eight worlds to explore while chasing Bowser Jr. and a kidnapped Princess Peach. New power-ups include the Mega Mushroom, the Blue Koopa Shell and the Mini Mushroom, and the hunt for all 240 Star Coins gives it far more life than a single run through the worlds. Nintendo also lists a set of touch screen minigames for a break from the main game. DKOldies lists a used cartridge at $40.99 before sales. The game is shorter than the RPGs below it, and Nintendo's UK page rates it PEGI 12 for gambling content, which parents may want to note. The Wii U Virtual Console release lacks wireless features and is no longer for sale.

Who it is for

Platformer fans and younger players who want a classic Mario game with secrets to hunt.

Price

Used DS cartridge from $40.99 at DKOldies (regular price, before sales).

Original price: $40.99
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 10, 2026.

Key features

• Eight worlds to explore across the Mushroom Kingdom
• 240 Star Coins to find
• Power-ups including the Mega Mushroom, Blue Koopa Shell and Mini Mushroom
• A selection of touch screen minigames
• Super Mario's first 2D platformer since Super Mario World, per Nintendo

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Pick up and play controls with no setup
• Strength: 240 Star Coins give completionists a long tail
• Strength: Regular used price of $40.99 is modest
• Weakness: Nintendo's listing rates it PEGI 12 for its gambling content
• Weakness: Wireless features are missing from the Wii U Virtual Console version
• Weakness: Shorter than the RPGs on this list

Key facts

• Publisher: Nintendo
• EU release: June 30, 2006
• Players: 1 (per Nintendo's listing)
• Age rating: PEGI 12
• Star Coins: 240

Where it ranks

New Super Mario Bros. is No. 2 in our Best Nintendo DS Games of All Time verdict.