Remembering the NES: Super Mario Bros. (NES/3DS VC Review) by Austin D.

Super Mario Bros.
Publisher: Nintendo
Developer: Nintendo
System: NES, SNES, GBC, GBA, GCN, Wii, 3DS
Release: September 13, 1985

September 7, 2011, by Austin D. - Super Mario Bros was released on September 13, 1985 and is nearing 26 years old. It was designed by both Shigeru Miyamoto and Takashi Tezuka for the Nintendo Entertainment System. It features many levels but is very shallow story-wise. Being the first game in the best-selling franchise ever, does it stand up after nearly 26 years?

When you first start the game, the Super Mario Bros theme song will be played, a very catchy tune that can stick in your head if you are not careful. Throughout the game, you will notice various sound effects for each item, block, and creature you kill. These have all become a staple for the franchise and have been used over the years. The soundtrack is very nice overall for the games era and is something many enjoy to this day.

The graphics are clear and keep a consistent frame rate as compared to other NES games, such as Metroid, where the frame rate drops whenever a lot of objects are on the screen. The sprites are very well made for the time and the game can clearly tell what each item, block, and enemy are.

The game has no native save feature besides keeping track of the player's high scores. The VC version, however, has the ability to use save states and other VC features.

The game has many features that will keep the player interested. Mario can jump on enemies, crushing them in a way only he could. There are secret blocks that contain various items, coins, or even extra lives. Some levels even have secret rooms where you can warp to other worlds, one such level being 1-2. Overall, the gameplay is somewhat shallow since the player makes Mario run right and jump to avoid obstacles in every level.

The Verdict

Sound
12/15 - The soundtrack is very memorable and many people can still hum parts of it.

Graphics
15/20 - The graphics do not seem to drop in frame rate like other NES games and are of good quality for the era.

Appeal
15/25 - Even without an in-depth story, Super Mario Bros still provides a lot of appeal to everyone looking for a retro experience. The shallowness is what made this classic take a hit on appeal.

Gameplay
33/40 - The game is rather difficult at time and provides many levels and secrets to be found.

Overall
75/100 - Super Mario Bros. will keep players entertained, but other NES games provide more overall appeal and depth.