100% Mainline Mario Marathon 1/20

I mean, it's Super Mario Bros. Man run, man jump. It's pretty fun, because, of course it is. There are some NESisms that I find a little frustrating. The castles are pretty horrible across the board with recycled layouts and mazes designed to waste your time. Compared to the fluidity of how Mario controls in later games, this feels a bit antiquated.

But like, this is one of the most influential, groundbreaking games of all time. Giving Super Mario Bros. criticism is like saying The Beatles' first album is kind of boring.

It's Super Mario Bros. And that's what it is. WAHOO!

Super Mario Bros. is a good game that solidifies Mario's status in the gaming world. At the time of its release, gamers were somewhat familiar with Mario, having seen him in previous games like Donkey Kong and Mario Bros., as well as in various odd jobs like golfing and wrecking crew duties. This game, however, took the character and the platformer genre to a new level, making a significant impact on the industry.

The game features responsive controls, which, although a bit floaty, feel intentional. The pacing is excellent, keeping players engaged throughout.

Technologically, Super Mario Bros. was very solid for an NES game. The sprite design is robust, and the graphics, while not groundbreaking, are impressive for a home console of the time. The sound design is decent, with memorable music that has become iconic. The game is clear and straightforward, though the puzzle stages can be a bit unexpected and strange.

One of the standout aspects of Super Mario Bros. is its innovation. The game introduced many elements that have become staples in the series and the genre. It’s packed with secrets, heart, and a sense of weirdness that makes it charming and engaging. The last world, in particular, has a unique vibe that leaves a lasting impression.

Despite its strengths, the game does have some drawbacks. Its difficulty can cause it to become tedious. Once mastered, the game is relatively short, leaving players wanting more. Super Mario Bros. put the "super" in Mario Bros. It laid the foundation for future NES games and remains a beloved classic. While it may not be my favorite NES game, its significance and impact on gaming are undeniable.