While not as great as the previous entry, I think this game holds up on its own for many reasons. It has its own original setting and the story this time around is really well done. You have plotlines you actually care about and genuine emotion. And the levels and setpieces maintain their unique gimmicks.

Gameplay wise it's simple, and the 3d gimmick makes the game look flat and not detailed, but mechanic wise it works fine, and it can add into more humor and fun gimmicks for battles.

Character variety is a little lacking and the designs are simple, but it's better than every character being Toad. Can you imagine....

Not an amazing entry, but pretty damn good on its own.