Super Mario Bros

This is the start of a series of reviews looking back on the Mario series. (The main series platforming centered games, at least.) And what other way to start than with...



Again, we should probably start off with a little history first:


You remember the NES, don't you? Ah yes, the embodiment of nostalgia, that rectangular brick of pwnage aiding you in your quest to save the princess, kill Dracula, what have you. Of course, if it weren't for this little Italian plumber, Nintendo probably wouldn't be what it is today. In fact, had it not been for Mario, the NES would've been tossed aside by retail markets for...*shudders* Teddy Ruxpin. (violin screeches)

Needless to say, Super Mario Bros would be a critical and commercial success, skyrocketing the NES and Nintendo to the #1 spot. Mario became a celebrity, with a number of shows, toys, games, food-related products, and even a film. (Don't look up that last one, though. Ugh.)However, how good is his game really? Let's find out.



First off, the second you appear in the Mushroom Kingdom you will notice that this game has something that few games at the time (and unfortunately even now) have: Eye-catching color. From the bright green Koopa shells to the deep blue sky, this game's visuals jump out at you. You never once feel the limitations of the 8 bit graphics, as the appearance of this game is simply mesmerizing.

Gameplay-wise, this game can be summarized with three words: difficulty, addictability, and polish. The Mario series is often seen as a kiddie series. To those who say that, I demand they put down their special-edition Modern Warfare 2 controllers, stop massacring innocent Russians and just TRY and beat this game without a Game Genie. I didn't think so, gramer douche. Furthermore, this game has a way of crawling into your brain and harassing your inner platforming junkie, knowing you'll always grasp that controller once more for vengeance on those damn Hammer Bros. You just can't put this game down, which I account to Miyamoto's secret plan of lacing the plastic of NES controllers with traces of nicotine and crystal meth. Or it's the gameplay, it could be either.

This is also one of the more polished games on the NES. Unlike Mega Man, you never feel cheated by the controls or the game. When you fuck up, you know it's your fault. Mario can also gain momentum as he runs, which is pivotal when trying to leap over a particular nasty Lakitu, or just fighting the good fight of those eternally trying to make it over the flagpole. (Don't act like you haven't tried!)

With numerous ports on systems ranging from the SNES to the Game Boy Color and the Wii's Virtual Console, there is know reason for you to not own this game. (Aside from the fear of swapping out that Ghillie suit for an always-fashionable overall ensemble)