Metascore
76

Generally favorable reviews - based on 7 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 7
  2. Negative: 0 out of 7
  1. Despite being a little light on content, the core game is intact and it's seriously absorbing. Do yourself a favor and don't miss out on this one.
  2. In the end, Dr. Mario Express still features the same addictive gameplay the title has become so well known for over the years and it ends up being a welcome addition to a DSiWare game library that's been a bit lacking to date.
  3. 80
    Nevertheless, if you're a fan of puzzle games and want to treat your DSi (and yourself) to something fun for both quick and lengthy sessions, Dr. Mario Express is worth the prescription.
  4. Official Nintendo Magazine UK
    79
    The lack of any multiplayer modes is a real shame. [July 2009, p.95]
  5. 75
    This Express version is light on features but offers the core Dr. Mario experience in an inexpensive, downloadable, and portable dose. The lack of human-on-human multiplayer is disappointing but it's still a solid single-player experience.
  6. A Little Bit of... Dr Mario is a challenging and enjoyable match-four game, but one that's undermined by poor presentation.
  7. It is little appealing and don't bring anything new. It lacks in game modes (no two Player Versus), and all this combined, leaves much of the success of Dr. Mario delivered to the nostalgic feeling that you'll get while playing it.

Awards & Rankings

32
44
#44 Most Discussed DS Game of 2009
85
#85 Most Shared DS Game of 2009
User Score
7.4

Mixed or average reviews- based on 9 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 9
  2. Negative: 0 out of 9
  1. Jan 15, 2012
    6
    Dr. Mario Express is a DSiware version of the classic Dr. Mario puzzle games. It does exactly what it says in the game's description, nothingDr. Mario Express is a DSiware version of the classic Dr. Mario puzzle games. It does exactly what it says in the game's description, nothing more or less. Play the Classic Mode's level based gameplay or challenge a CPU in VS Battle Mode to prove who has the sharper wits and better reflexes. There are help options and basic video tutorials to help you get started if necessary and a high score table to keep track of your best records. This game does not have any multiplayer modes of any kind. Although it is kind of a barebones product, it does exactly what it sets out to do, be Dr. Mario that you can play on the go and if you are interested in that take a look, if not interested then don't bother. If you don't wish to buy it but want it anyways, the game is free on Club Nintendo in exchange for 150 coins until the end of January 2012. Full Review »
  2. Apr 10, 2023
    7
    A small little puzzle-game that is great for quick pick-up and play, small minutes-long bursts of play. While potentially outdated by betterA small little puzzle-game that is great for quick pick-up and play, small minutes-long bursts of play. While potentially outdated by better options on the 3DS, it's definitely one of the best DSiware games even if by default. Full Review »
  3. May 27, 2016
    6
    The Dr. Mario experience is here, but it just isn't the same as the original. The new graphics and sound are ugly in my opinion, and the pillsThe Dr. Mario experience is here, but it just isn't the same as the original. The new graphics and sound are ugly in my opinion, and the pills drop way too slowly. The latency when a pill touches another pill is very apparent and makes the game too easy. If you have no other way to play Dr. Mario, get it if you want. Dr. Mario on NES, Game Boy and N64 are better though, just saying. Full Review »