Game Review: Super Mario Brothers for NES

The next three reviews will be over probably the most well known video games of all time: Super Mario Brothers one, two and three for Nintendo Entertainment System. There is hardly a person alive that has not played one, or all three of these games, and they have spawned so many TV shows, cultural references and sequals that they deserve a high place in the annals of video game history. So here we go…

The Vintage Game Spot Game Review Rating: 90 out of 100

Super Mario Brothers for NES was released in 1985 by Nintendo and is arguably the most well known game of modern times. It was developed from the arcade game of the same name, which came out in 1983. The game is often credited for the success of Nintendo and for bringing the country out of the Video Game Crash of 1983.

In the game you control either Mario or his brother Luigi (2 player mode only) as they move through the Mushroom Kingdom and do battle against Bowser to save Princess Toadstool while killing enemies such as Goombas and Koopa Troopas.

Paul’s Review: 100 out of 100

This is the first Nintendo game I played when I originally got the console back in the 80’s so my rating might be more based on the good memories rather than the actual gameplay. That being said, the game is very well developed, the characters are memorable and fun. The gameplay is engaging and challenging without being overly difficult. Overall one of the best games ever made for NES!

Downsides would include the fact that there is no way to save, and when you die, you have to repeat the game from the very beginning. Also, player 2 (Luigi) doesn’t begin play until the first time Mario dies, which, if Player 1 is good at the game, can be a very long time. BUT I still gave this game a 100 due to its nostalga, notoriety and just plane funness (yes I made that word up) to play. 

This is truly one of those games you can just sit and play for hours on end without getting bored. In fact me and the roommates have played it more times than I can count in just the past month. 

Another huge plus to this game is it was included with new NES systems as the bundled game so there are MILLIONS of copies out there. It makes it one of the most affordable games at your local flea market or used video game store. If you have never played this game, I suggest getting your hands on a copy. If you have played it but don't have a copy currently, I suggest going out and getting it. You can't go wrong with this game!

Tyler's Review: 80 out of 100

I wasn’t ever much of a Mario fan, but this game is a classic favorite amongst all gamers. Born in 1992, I was not around for the release craze, however my older sister was, she is a big vintage gamer, so essentially I was raised on it, since this game in particular has always been one of her favorites. Looking back at the game today it has brought back numerous fond memories. Super Mario Brothers has made history, nobody will ever forget the adventures of this Italian, princess saving plumber Mario, along with his brother Luigi. 

I’ve always enjoyed the hidden levels, and the gameplay is quite amazing for 8-bit. I wish it was available to play 2-player at the same time instead of turn based, but it is an old game, can’t expect too much. Overall, this is a great game and I would recommend it to anyone, although I would question a person’s sanity if they have never played it before!

Video of the Game
Here is a video review of the game, published on YouTube by Classic Game Room. He is a GREAT reviewer and has great footage of old games. Disclaimer: I am in no way connected to the Classic Game Room and offer a link to his video as information only. Any copyright or intellectual property, actual or implied is owned by him not me.