The series that will apparently never die and the series that is often credited for helping start the video gaming phenomenon back on the original Nintendo system, is being ported one by one to the Gameboy Advance, bringing back the amazing 2D, side-scrolling, platform adventures of yesteryear. Here, in the second of four (at time of writing), we're given Mario's first Super Nintendo appearance and arguably the best Mario game ever: Super Mario World.

Seeing as how AceGamez was obviously not around at the time Super Mario World was originally released, I'm not going to tiptoe around the actual game here. Super Mario World still remains the final true 2D side-scrolling Mario game, as Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Story was quite different and also starred Yoshi as the main character. This, in my opinion, is very unfortunate, as Super Mario World is a fine example of what a good side scrolling game should be. As with every Mario game we don't expect much from the story, because we know we'll probably never get much. The princess has once again been captured by Bowser and it's up to the Mario Brothers to save her! Back when this title was released it was the first appearance of the famous, lovable little dino, Yoshi. Throughout the entire game you're able to mount him and use him to aid you along your quest. Be it eating enemies, flying to other areas, breathing fire, stomping on things or just keeping an extra hit available so you don't die, Yoshi is sure to help you in a big way.

The usual power ups are all here of course; fireballs, capes and the famous mushroom. All are placed very carefully to come just when you need them throughout the levels, all of which are designed with amazing style. In the beginning they appear to be very easy and they are, but the difficulty gradually increases level by level, soon reaching major amounts of frustration. Several things have been updated or added into the game to make it even better, something that seemed impossible. You now have the ability to switch between Mario and Luigi while on the map screen before entering a level. Luigi's physics have been changed to ensure that he and his brother both play differently. Luigi now has his signature jump attributes, which allow him to float in the air for an extended period of time and also jump much further. Like Super Mario Bros 2 back on the original NES (also now ported as the first Super Mario Advance), he also wiggles his legs back and forth while in the air.

Also added for this version is the ability to pull up a progress chart via the select button. Here you will find a list of every level in the game, along with icons displaying if you've beaten it normally, secretly and with all the coins. Once you complete all of the goals (also known as level exits, both normal and secretly), you can instantly warp to the level entrance via the progress chart. Other little additions to the chart is a total point count, as well as how many goals Mario & Luigi have each completed on their own. Even short new intros and ending scenes have been thrown into the mix and one for collecting all of the gold coins throughout the game. Doing so will now give you a new bonus, just for fun. It really serves little purpose but I won't spoil it for you.

Thrown in with Super Mario Advance 2 is the multiplayer game from Super Mario Bros. 3, where you run around a small area stomping enemies and collecting coins. This game can also be played with a friend via the Gameboy Advance multiplayer cord adapter and the good news here is that unlike a lot of GBA games only one cartridge is required for multiplayer fun.

All of the classic Mario Bros. sounds are still here, including the catchy music and the signature jump sound effect but to make things even better, Mario & Luigi now speak on many occasions; in death, celebration or just when you select them, each one has quite a bit to say with their amusing Italian accents. While the new Mario games of the next generation may be superior graphically, Super Mario World is beautiful in its own way. For a 2D side-scroller it couldn't look better. Even the world maps look spectacular, with many different area types to visit. The port has been carried out perfectly and manages to transfer the controls with great ease. Each button serves an important purpose and is always within easy reach. While some areas may be harder to see, specifically castles, this is not a problem at all with the SP and its backlit screen.

Super Mario Advance 2 offers many things to do and playing through it will bring back fond memories of the Super Nintendo era; even veterans of the game will enjoy playing it over again now that there is a progress sheet included. Getting all of the Yoshi Coins will take some time and probably cause a lot of frustration but it will definitely keep you playing, as I have gone through the game and achieved 100% more than once and I loved every minute of it. The best Mario side-scroller and perhaps the best Mario game ever is now portable and better than ever for you to enjoy wherever you want, anytime. Thank you Nintendo, now all we need from you is an equally brilliant, brand new Mario side-scroller!

Reviewed by Christopher Martin for AceGamez (All Rights Reserved).