Introduction:
Super Mario Bros. is not just a game; it’s a cornerstone of video game history. Released in 1985 for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), it revolutionized platformers and became a cultural touchstone that defined the 8-bit era. The game’s influence is still felt today in almost every platformer released, from indie games to major blockbusters. But how does the classic hold up today, nearly 40 years later? Let’s dive into the Mushroom Kingdom and find out.
Overview of the Game:
- Game Title: Super Mario Bros.
- Developer: Nintendo
- Publisher: Nintendo
- Release Date: September 13, 1985
- Platforms Available: NES, Switch Online, Virtual Console (various platforms)
- Genre: Platformer
- Price: Varies (often included with NES Classics or online subscriptions)
- Game Mode(s): Single-player, Co-op (2-Player Mode)
Gameplay & Mechanics:
- Core Gameplay:
Super Mario Bros. is a straightforward 2D side-scrolling platformer where players control Mario (or Luigi in multiplayer mode) as they journey through eight worlds to rescue Princess Toadstool (now Princess Peach) from the evil Bowser. The game is as simple as it gets: jump, run, and dodge obstacles, but it’s the tightness and precision of the controls that make it feel so rewarding. The game’s physics—Mario’s jump arc, momentum, and the speed—are flawless for the time, making even small, simple jumps feel like a triumph. - Controls and UI:
The controls are simple but incredibly responsive, with just two buttons—one for jumping and another for running. There’s no need for complex combos or complicated inputs, just pure platforming bliss. The UI is minimalistic—just enough to show lives and score, which was a hallmark of many NES games. In multiplayer, swapping between Mario and Luigi adds a fun dynamic, though both characters control similarly. - Difficulty Curve & Challenge:
Super Mario Bros. offers a relatively gentle learning curve. The first few levels are introductory, easing players into the game mechanics. However, as you progress, the challenge ramps up with increasingly tricky jumps, enemy patterns, and obstacle courses. The difficulty peaks in the later stages, but never feels unfair—each level rewards precision and timing. The infamous “hammer bros.” and Bowser’s castle stages are a real test of your platforming skills.
Graphics and Art Direction:
- Visual Style:
For its time, Super Mario Bros. was visually stunning. The 8-bit graphics were clear and expressive, with vibrant colors that made each world distinct. The art direction, from Mario’s simple but iconic design to the various environments—plains, underground levels, castles, and castles—was highly imaginative and gave each area its own personality. The game’s environments, though basic by modern standards, were artistically designed to immerse players in a magical world. - Character and World Design:
Mario and Luigi’s simple sprites are iconic and have remained mostly unchanged through the years. The design of the Mushroom Kingdom is colorful and easy to recognize, with every world having a unique theme. The enemies—from Goombas to Koopa Troopas—are as memorable as the heroes themselves, and the enemies’ animations, even in such a limited 8-bit space, are full of life. The world feels alive and full of surprises, from hidden blocks to secret pipes that warp you to new areas. - Performance and Resolution:
The game runs smoothly on the NES, with no noticeable slowdown, even in fast-moving sections or when multiple enemies appear on screen. For an 8-bit system, Super Mario Bros. is a visual treat, and it holds up surprisingly well when played on modern emulators or through digital re-releases like the NES Classic Edition.
Sound and Music:
- Soundtrack:
The music in Super Mario Bros. is legendary. The title theme alone is one of the most recognizable tunes in gaming history. Each world has its own unique theme, ranging from the upbeat and cheerful overworld tune to the tense and dramatic castle music. The tracks are simple, but their catchy melodies stay with you long after the game is turned off. The use of music to set the tone for each level is a key factor in the game’s enduring appeal. - Sound Effects:
The sound effects are equally iconic. The “coin sound” when Mario collects a coin, the “power-up sound” when he grabs a Super Mushroom, and the “1-Up” jingle are etched into the memories of gamers around the world. Every action, from jumping to defeating an enemy, is accompanied by satisfying and intuitive sound effects that make the game feel complete. - Voice Acting:
There is no voice acting in the traditional sense, but Mario’s expressive grunts, jumps, and “Woo-hoo!” have become part of his trademark. These sounds are simple but communicate everything you need to know about Mario’s excitement and determination.
Story & Narrative:
- Plot Overview:
The story of Super Mario Bros. is as straightforward as they come: Bowser has kidnapped Princess Toadstool, and it’s up to Mario (and Luigi) to save her. There’s no complex plot here, just a classic rescue mission. The lack of a deeper narrative allows the player to focus on the pure joy of gameplay, and it’s this simplicity that has helped the game remain accessible to players of all ages. - Characters:
Mario and Luigi are the stars of the show, with each having their own distinct personality and role in the game. Mario, the brave plumber, leads the charge, while Luigi is the often-overlooked sidekick. Though their personalities aren’t as developed as in later games, their iconic status is firmly established here. Bowser is the perfect villain for Mario—evil, menacing, and just the right amount of quirky. - Narrative Pacing:
The story doesn’t need to be long or complex, as the game’s focus is on gameplay. The progression from level to level creates a sense of adventure as you journey through different worlds. The plot is simple, but the gameplay experience keeps you engaged throughout.
Replayability & Longevity:
- How Replayable is the Game?
Super Mario Bros. is highly replayable due to its challenging levels and hidden secrets. Completing the game once is just the beginning. Players can aim for high scores, find all the hidden warp zones, or try to complete the game without losing a life. The addition of a second player mode also increases replay value, making it a fun game to play with friends or family. - New Game Plus, Unlockables, & Extra Features:
While there’s no New Game Plus mode, the game offers plenty of secrets. Warp zones allow players to skip ahead to later worlds, but finding all the secrets, including the hidden 1-Up mushrooms and hidden blocks, can add hours of extra playtime.
Nostalgia Factor:
- Does the Game Pay Tribute to Retro Games?
Super Mario Bros. is essentially the template for many platformers that came after it. The game defined the genre, so every modern platformer owes a debt to it. The nostalgic value is immeasurable, and even those playing it for the first time today can feel the magic of what was achieved in 1985. - Modern vs. Retro:
Even though the graphics and sound are clearly of the 1980s, Super Mario Bros.‘s core gameplay is timeless. Its mechanics are simple but perfectly executed, making it just as fun to play today as it was nearly four decades ago.
Technical Aspects:
- Performance:
On the NES, Super Mario Bros. runs without issue, maintaining smooth gameplay at all times. Even with multiple moving enemies and rapid action, the game holds up technically, which is a testament to its well-optimized design. - Bugs & Glitches:
The game is remarkably stable, though the occasional well-known glitch (like the famous “minus world” warp) has made its way into Mario lore. These glitches are part of the charm and only add to the game’s mystique.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros:
- Timeless and engaging platforming mechanics
- Iconic soundtrack and sound effects
- Fun, challenging, and rewarding gameplay
- Extremely influential on the entire platformer genre
- Perfectly balanced difficulty curve
- Cons:
- Very simple story (though this is hardly a drawback for a game of its time)
- Limited character variety (only Mario and Luigi as playable characters)
- Later levels can feel repetitive without a major gameplay shift
Final Thoughts:
Super Mario Bros. is one of the most important video games of all time, and it remains a shining example of the power of simplicity and design. The game’s tight controls, iconic visuals, and unforgettable music have made it a timeless classic. Even almost 40 years after its release, it’s still as fun to play as ever. Whether you’re revisiting it for nostalgia or playing it for the first time, Super Mario Bros. remains a must-play title that holds up remarkably well across generations.
Final Score:
10/10