Super Mario Run

Classic, mustachioed hero jumps into fun, mobile world By Christine Elgersma, Common Sense Media Parents need to know that Super Mario Run is an arcade game that's fun for all ages. Like the Super Mario Bros. games, this has the iconic plumber running and jumping his way through an obstacle course. Though there's nothing offensive, and the only violence involves him knocking his enemies off the screen bloodlessly, the game is fairly involved and might be too difficult for little kids. One warning: While the iTunes site says this game is "free," that's just to pay the first three levels: To enjoy the other 21, you have to spend $9.99. Read the app's privacy policy — which is available both in the "About This App" section of the game's menu, and on the game's website — to find out about the information collected and shared.

WHAT'S IT ABOUT?

As you do in Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Run has Mario running and jumping his way through an obstacle course full of jumps, pitfalls, crazy enemies and gold coins. Except that in this game, you don't get to decide when, and in what direction, Mario moves. Instead, he's constantly running, and toward the finish line. He can also jump further, which is done by holding your finger down on the screen instead of just tapping it. Along with the main game, there's also a mode called "Toad Rally," in which you compete against a virtual version of other people's runs. You can also use the coins you collect to build your own kingdom and even unlock more courses by building such structures as the "Bonus Game" house. Players can also toggle the music on and off.

IS IT ANY GOOD?

By combining the classic gameplay of Super Mario Bros. with the tenets of an endless runner, Nintendo has created a great mobile game for Mario lovers of all ages. Though the additions seem simple, they actually make this feel like a unique take on an old favorite, especially since this otherwise looks, sounds and plays like a classic Mario game. Sadly, though, you can't play this if your phone or tablet isn't connected to the Internet, which means you can't play on planes or in the car if your coverage is spotty or even in your own bathroom if your Wi-Fi is weak. Having to be connected is a real bummer because, when you can play it, Super Mario Run is the most fun we've had with Mario since, well, his last lengthy jog. APP DETAILS Devices: iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad Price: Free-to-try

Release date: Dec. 15, 2016 Category: Arcade Games Size: 205.00 MB

Publisher: Nintendo Minimum software requirements: iOS 8.0 or later Rating: Recommended for ages 8 and older