The goal of this puzzle/platformer-- whose namesakes it unfortunately doesn't live up to--is similar to that of its GBA predecessor: Guide a number of tiny, lemminglike "mini- Marios" past obstacles and safely to the exit. This time, thankfully, you have direct control over your minions--you can use the touch screen to make them start, stop, change direction, and jump, as well as to manipulate the environment (spin pipes, extend bridges, etc.) quickly and easily. Minis also marches out new hazards, game mechanics, and enemies at a steady pace--problem is, the levels rarely combine these aspects in inspired ways. Safely getting out most of your minis is simple, even your first time through later levels. Doing it perfectly with all the point bonuses is another matter, but without a decent reward for doing so, who cares? Also, the minigames and boss fights are inexcusably lame, simply variations on the same template. If you have the patience, though, the level editor is robust and intuitive. Your excitement at the idea of making your own stages (or downloading friends' creations over Wi- Fi) is the true test of how much you'll enjoy this otherwise simple game.
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