Best Super Mario Bros. Consoles: A Retro Gaming Guide

Super Mario Bros. is one of the most iconic video games ever created, and it has appeared on numerous consoles over the years. If you're looking to experience this classic game (or its sequels) on original hardware, you'll need to choose the right console. This guide will walk you through the best consoles for playing Super Mario Bros., covering their history, features, and why they remain popular today.

Why Super Mario Bros. Still Matters

Super Mario Bros. isn't just a game; it's a cultural touchstone. Released in 1985 for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), it revitalized the home video game market after the 1983 crash. Its innovative gameplay, vibrant graphics, and catchy soundtrack set a new standard for platformers and cemented Mario's place as a gaming icon.

• Innovative Gameplay: Super Mario Bros. introduced elements like scrolling levels, hidden areas, and power-ups that are now staples of the genre.
• Cultural Impact: The game's success helped establish Nintendo as a major player in the video game industry.
• Timeless Appeal: Even decades later, Super Mario Bros. remains fun and challenging, attracting new players and nostalgic fans alike.

The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES): The Original Home

History of the NES

The NES, known as the Famicom in Japan, was Nintendo's first successful home console. Released in North America in 1985, it came bundled with Super Mario Bros., instantly making the game a must-have title.

Why It's Great for Super Mario Bros.

• Authentic Experience: Playing Super Mario Bros. on the NES is the most authentic way to experience the game as it was originally intended.
• Iconic Controller: The NES controller, with its simple two-button layout, is instantly recognizable and comfortable to use.
• Vast Game Library: The NES boasts a large library of classic games, including other Mario titles like Super Mario Bros. 3.

Technical Specs

• CPU: 8-bit Ricoh 2A03
• RAM: 2 KB
• Resolution: 256 x 240 pixels
• Color Palette: 52 colors

Super Mario Bros. on the NES: Key Games

Super Mario Bros.

The game that started it all. Players control Mario (or Luigi in two-player mode) as they journey through the Mushroom Kingdom to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser.

Super Mario Bros. 2

A unique entry in the series, originally released in Japan as "Yume Kōjō: Doki Doki Panic." It features different playable characters with unique abilities and a focus on vertical level design. — Colts Game Score: How To Find The Results

Super Mario Bros. 3

Widely considered one of the best video games of all time, Super Mario Bros. 3 introduced new power-ups like the Super Leaf and the Tanooki Suit, along with a world map for level selection.

The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES): A 16-Bit Upgrade

History of the SNES

The SNES, or Super Famicom in Japan, was Nintendo's successor to the NES. Released in North America in 1991, it offered improved graphics, sound, and gameplay capabilities.

Why It's Great for Super Mario Bros.

• Enhanced Graphics and Sound: The SNES provided a significant visual and audio upgrade over the NES, making games like Super Mario World more vibrant and immersive.
• Expanded Gameplay: The SNES controller introduced shoulder buttons, allowing for more complex controls and gameplay mechanics.
• Super Mario World: The SNES is home to Super Mario World, a masterpiece that expanded on the gameplay of Super Mario Bros. 3.

Technical Specs

• CPU: 16-bit Ricoh 5A22
• RAM: 128 KB
• Resolution: 256 x 224 pixels
• Color Palette: 32,768 colors

Super Mario Bros. on the SNES: Key Games

Super Mario World

Super Mario World is a landmark title that introduced Yoshi, a dinosaur companion, and a sprawling world map filled with secrets and challenges.

Super Mario All-Stars

A compilation that includes enhanced versions of Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros. 2, Super Mario Bros. 3, and Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels.

Game Boy and Game Boy Color: Mario on the Go

History of the Game Boy

The Game Boy, released in 1989, revolutionized handheld gaming. Its portability and impressive game library made it a massive success.

Why It's Great for Super Mario Bros.

• Portability: The Game Boy allowed players to take Mario on the go, making it perfect for gaming on the bus, in the car, or anywhere else.
• Unique Mario Titles: The Game Boy featured unique Mario games like Super Mario Land and Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins.
• Game Boy Color Enhancements: The Game Boy Color added color to the handheld experience, making games like Super Mario Bros. Deluxe even more vibrant.

Technical Specs (Game Boy)

• CPU: 8-bit Sharp LR35902
• RAM: 8 KB
• Resolution: 160 x 144 pixels
• Color Palette: 4 shades of gray

Technical Specs (Game Boy Color)

• CPU: 8-bit Sharp LR35902
• RAM: 32 KB
• Resolution: 160 x 144 pixels
• Color Palette: 56 simultaneous colors

Super Mario Bros. on the Game Boy: Key Games

Super Mario Land

A unique Mario adventure with new enemies and power-ups, set in Sarasaland rather than the Mushroom Kingdom.

Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins

Introduced Wario, Mario's rival, and featured a large world map with diverse levels and challenges.

Super Mario Bros. Deluxe

A colorized remake of the original Super Mario Bros. with added features like a challenge mode and unlockable content.

Other Consoles to Consider

Game Boy Advance

The Game Boy Advance offered 32-bit graphics and a wider screen, making it a great platform for Super Mario Advance, a series of enhanced remakes of classic Mario games.

Nintendo Wii

The Wii's Virtual Console allowed players to download and play classic NES, SNES, and Game Boy games, including many Super Mario titles.

Nintendo Switch

The Nintendo Switch Online service offers a library of classic NES and SNES games, including Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros. 3, and Super Mario World.

Modern Options: Emulation and Virtual Consoles

If you don't have access to original hardware, there are several modern ways to play Super Mario Bros.: — Miami Dolphins Game Day: Your Ultimate Guide

• Emulation: Emulators allow you to play classic games on your computer or smartphone. However, be sure to download ROMs legally by owning the original game.
• Virtual Consoles: Nintendo's Virtual Console service, available on the Wii and Wii U, offered a curated library of classic games for download.
• Nintendo Switch Online: The Nintendo Switch Online service includes a library of classic NES and SNES games, including several Super Mario titles.

Collecting Tips and Considerations

If you're interested in collecting original consoles and games, here are a few tips:

• Condition Matters: The condition of the console and game cartridges can significantly impact their value.
• Look for Complete Sets: Games that come with their original box and manuals are generally worth more.
• Research Prices: Use online resources like eBay and PriceCharting to get an idea of current market values.

Maintaining Your Retro Console

To keep your retro console in good working order, follow these tips: — Columbus, Ohio: Cost Of Living Guide

• Clean Regularly: Dust and debris can accumulate inside the console, causing overheating and other issues. Use a can of compressed air to clean the internal components.
• Store Properly: Store your console in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Handle Cartridges with Care: Avoid touching the connector pins on game cartridges, and store them in protective cases.

FAQ Section

What is the best console to play the original Super Mario Bros. on?

The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is the best console to play the original Super Mario Bros. It offers the most authentic experience, as the game was designed specifically for this system.

Can I play Super Mario Bros. on modern consoles?

Yes, you can play Super Mario Bros. on modern consoles like the Nintendo Switch through the Nintendo Switch Online service.

What is Super Mario All-Stars?

Super Mario All-Stars is a compilation released for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) that includes enhanced 16-bit versions of Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros. 2, Super Mario Bros. 3, and Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels.

What is the rarest Super Mario Bros. game?

One of the rarest Super Mario Bros. games is a sealed copy of the original Super Mario Bros. for the NES. First printings and versions with specific packaging can also be quite valuable.

What is the difference between Super Mario Bros. 2 versions?

The Super Mario Bros. 2 released in North America and Europe is actually a modified version of a Japanese game called "Yume Kōjō: Doki Doki Panic." The original Japanese Super Mario Bros. 2 was released in the West as Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels.

Which Super Mario Bros. game introduced Yoshi?

Super Mario World, released for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), introduced Yoshi to the Mario universe.

Conclusion

Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, Super Mario Bros. offers a timeless gaming experience. Choosing the right console to play on depends on your preferences, whether you prioritize authenticity, portability, or enhanced graphics. From the original NES to modern consoles like the Nintendo Switch, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this classic game. So grab a controller, jump into the Mushroom Kingdom, and experience the magic of Super Mario Bros. for yourself. Happy gaming!