There is also a little multiplayer mode called Cooking Contest that has you competing against your friends in specific minigames to see who can make the most hamburgers, break the most eggs, or grind the most meat within a certain amount of time. There are about 16 of these types of challenges that you can play in multiplayer or solo, but unless you like competing with your friends to see who can draw circles on their DS the fastest, I doubt any of the challenges here will hold your interest for very long.

The only other change made in this sequel is the ability to customize your kitchen, your utensils, and even Mama herself. You do this by unlocking presents that you gain by obtaining bonus stars. Bonus stars are awarded to you by doing exceptionally well in certain minigames. Once you get five bonus stars, you’ll get a present that could contain anything from a new outfit for Mama, to a small decoration that you can use in your picture diary. Unfortunately you’ll be getting a lot of the latter before you even get one of the former, and the worst part is that they don’t even tell you what kind of item it is that you got or where it was sent to. So if you’re not reading this review and understand that the vast majority of your presents are actually picture diary decorations, you’re going to be wondering where all of your presents have gone.

Overall, if you liked the first Cooking Mama for the DS, you’ll likely still enjoy Cooking Mama 2. It’s got more of the same surprisingly addictive minigames, plenty of new recipes for you to sink your stylus into, and some new modes that may bring some extra value to those who like to customize everything in their games, no matter how silly it may look. Others may want to look elsewhere in the direction of Mario Party DS if they’re looking for a fun casual game experience that you can share with your friends.