So you want to continue our discussion then lets.
Mario 64 to Sunshine - Fudd and New theme, a better hub world( I am sure I am missing other differences) and yet many people hated it.
Mario 64/Sunshine to Galaxy - New theme, new mechanic(planets and gravity), more linear, more suits
Mario 3d L to Mario 3dW - Bigger, more varied, complex and intricate stages, better camera, 4 player multiplayer, each player playing differently, new storyline, new/more suits(catsuit and Tanooki suit's return) which changes gameplay, new mechanics(transparent pipes which changes game play), more could be revealed since the game isn't out yet.
Disclaimer: Please add or correct me in the difference between games.
So what is the problem again? Looks like a proper Mario game to me. I do not want to continue this cause so you can reply but I am not doing the same(maybe).