Why it's the best: Groundbreaking 3D gameplay set a new direction for the series. Instead of just choosing which level to tackle next, players choose everything: where to go, what to do, and how to do it. Mario's new moves -- like the stomp, the baseball slide, and the wall kick -- all became series standards.
Why it's not: Some of the objectives are completely inscrutable (the little hint in the title of each one is rarely enough). Playing through each stage over and over becomes tedious. The coolest power-ups are again too rare and confined to certain areas. Wrestling with the camera is a constant challenge.
Why it's the best: Sunshine takes the 3D gameplay pioneered in SM64 and adds the FLUDD, a water-powered jetpack Mario uses to clean up Isle Delfino. Sunshine also attempts to tell more of a story, as Mario is arrested, put on trial, and forced to clear his name. The game's tropical settings stand out as well.
Why it's not: The projectile-based mechanics of the FLUDD feel very different from Mario's usual platforming. The camera issues from SM64 are present here, too.
Why it's the best: Galaxy's unique level design has Mario scampering over a multitude of planetoids, each with its own gravity. You can shoot Star Bits with the Wii Remote and find a multitude of creative power-ups, like the Boo and Spring Suits.
Why it's not: Galaxy strips away the freedom and nonlinearity of SM64, placing you on fairly direct paths through each level. Most of the power-ups, while cute, are underwhelming and again tied to specific locations. The game isn't as challenging as previous entries, either.
Why it's the best: NSMB Wii takes all the best parts of the classics and molds them into a new experience, complete with new power-ups (how did it take so long to come up with the Penguin Suit?). Its multiplayer mode is where the game really shines, though, combining cooperation and competition in an exciting, maddening mix.
Why it's not: In aping the classic Mario games, NSMB Wii also suffers from the same repetition. The level designs aren't as creative as in past entries and are a little on the easy side, especially in single player.
Why it's the best: Galaxy 2 plays almost just like Galaxy 1, except more refined. New power-ups and the addition of Yoshi keep things fresh, and the game ramps up the difficulty, too.
Why it's not: If you didn't like Galaxy 1, you won't like Galaxy 2, because it's pretty much the same game. The increased difficulty can be frustrating. The power-ups again disappoint a little.
So what do you think? Which Mario game is the best in the series and why (and why not)? Let us know in the comments below!
