For it being only a Game Boy title, I would have to say that this is one of the best 2D Mario games.
To compare it to the first Mario Land game, this controls so much better. You have way more control over Mario's movement which makes the platforming just so much more enjoyable. The visual presentation is also a massive improvement with more detailed sprites and more interesting themes and locations than not only the first game but more 2D games that followed over the years. The soundtrack is also amazing, definitely worth checking out if you haven't listened to it before.
The level structure has also had a big improvement, with levels taking place in 6 different zones that you can tackle in order you like. Stuck on a specific stage? that's fine, check out another zone and come back to it later. The themes of these zones are also pretty fun, ranging from inside a jack-o-lantern to inside a large toy Mario to even space.
In terms of difficulty, this game could still be considered pretty easy for todays standards, although Wario's castle makes up for it. The Wario boss fight is also pretty cool as you fight him in 3 different waves, where Wario will use your own powerups against you.
Overall, this game is (in my opinion) one of the best 2D titles in the franchise, with a good level of difficulty and length that's perfect for on the move. An incredibly underrated gem for the franchise.
To compare it to the first Mario Land game, this controls so much better. You have way more control over Mario's movement which makes the platforming just so much more enjoyable. The visual presentation is also a massive improvement with more detailed sprites and more interesting themes and locations than not only the first game but more 2D games that followed over the years. The soundtrack is also amazing, definitely worth checking out if you haven't listened to it before.
The level structure has also had a big improvement, with levels taking place in 6 different zones that you can tackle in order you like. Stuck on a specific stage? that's fine, check out another zone and come back to it later. The themes of these zones are also pretty fun, ranging from inside a jack-o-lantern to inside a large toy Mario to even space.
In terms of difficulty, this game could still be considered pretty easy for todays standards, although Wario's castle makes up for it. The Wario boss fight is also pretty cool as you fight him in 3 different waves, where Wario will use your own powerups against you.
Overall, this game is (in my opinion) one of the best 2D titles in the franchise, with a good level of difficulty and length that's perfect for on the move. An incredibly underrated gem for the franchise.