The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was a revolutionary console that brought gaming to the masses during the 1980s and 1990s. Released in 1985, the NES was a massive hit, with over 62 million units sold worldwide. One of the most iconic games released for the NES is Super Mario Bros. 2 (SMB2), which is still widely regarded as one of the best platformers of all time.

However, many fans and critics have expressed disappointment that the original Super Mario Bros. (SMB1) was not included in the re-release of SMB2 on various Nintendo consoles and virtual stores such as Wii Virtual Console, Wii U Virtual Console, 3DS Virtual Console, PlayStation 3, PlayStation Network, Xbox 360, Xbox Live Arcade, iOS and mobile platforms. As a result, an updated version known as Super Mario Bros. Deluxe was released for the Nintendo Entertainment System - Famicom Disk System (NES-FDS) only in Japan but also on the Wii U Virtual Console in Western markets.

In this article, we will explore what makes Super Mario Bros. Deluxe, a re-release of SMB1 for the NES-FDS and its subsequent release on other platforms, so special and why it has gained a hot review among retro gaming enthusiasts.

Background

Super Mario Bros. 2 was released as an expansion pack for the original Super Mario Bros. in Japan but was packaged separately from SMB1 in Western markets. This led to widespread confusion about the two games and their release dates. The reason for this separation is largely historical, due to a combination of factors including Nintendo's desire to capitalize on both the popularity of SMB1 and its new 2D gameplay mechanics.

When released as an expansion pack for SMB1, Super Mario Bros. 2 introduced a number of innovations that would later become standard features in platformer games such as power-ups, enemies with distinct behaviors, and multiplayer modes. While the gameplay was different from the first game, many fans still prefer SMB1 to its sequel due to the nostalgic value it holds.

The Release of Super Mario Bros. Deluxe

In Japan, a special edition of SMB2 known as Super Mario Bros. Deluxe was released in 1989. This version included all the features and gameplay mechanics found in SMB2, including the ability to play with up to three players on a single console using the two-player controller. The deluxe version also introduced new levels that were not available in SMB2, making it an updated and more complete package.

The release of Super Mario Bros. Deluxe was significant for several reasons:

1. Updated Gameplay Mechanics: The Deluxe version of SMB2 included all the gameplay mechanics found in SMB2 including power-ups, enemies with distinct behaviors, and multiplayer modes.
2. New Levels: The deluxe version introduced new levels that were not available in SMB2, making it a more complete package for fans of the game.
3. Multiplayer Mode: The Deluxe version included a multiplayer mode that allowed players to play together on a single console using the two-player controller.

The release of Super Mario Bros. Deluxe was widely covered by the gaming press at the time and was seen as an update to SMB2 with new content.

Release on Other Platforms

Super Mario Bros. Deluxe was released on various Nintendo consoles and virtual stores over the years, including:

• Wii Virtual Console: Released in 2009 for the Wii console.
• Wii U Virtual Console: Released in 2014 for the Wii U console.
• 3DS Virtual Console: Released in 2014 for the Nintendo 3DS handheld console.
• PlayStation 3: Released as a downloadable title on the PlayStation Network in 2008.
• Xbox 360: Released as a downloadable title on Xbox Live Arcade in 2009.

The release of Super Mario Bros. Deluxe on these platforms allowed fans to experience the updated gameplay mechanics and new levels that were included in the deluxe version of SMB2.

Age Rating

Super Mario Bros. Deluxe is rated E (Everyone) by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), which means it is suitable for players of all ages, including children.

Why It Has Gained a Hot Review Among Retro Gaming Enthusiasts

Super Mario Bros. Deluxe has gained a hot review among retro gaming enthusiasts due to several reasons:

1. Nostalgia: The game's updated gameplay mechanics and new levels make it a more complete package than SMB2, allowing fans to experience the series in a new way.
2. Challenge: The Deluxe version of SMB2 is considered by many to be a more challenging game than SMB1 due to its new gameplay mechanics and tougher level design.
3. Completionist Value: The Deluxe version includes all the features and gameplay mechanics found in SMB2, making it a must-play for completionists who want to experience every aspect of the series.

Conclusion

Super Mario Bros. Deluxe is an updated version of Super Mario Bros. 2 that includes new levels, multiplayer mode, and updated gameplay mechanics. The game has gained a hot review among retro gaming enthusiasts due to its nostalgic value, challenge, and completionist value. With its release on various Nintendo consoles and virtual stores over the years, fans have been able to experience this classic platformer in a new way.

In conclusion, Super Mario Bros. Deluxe is an updated version of SMB2 that offers something for everyone, including newcomers and seasoned gamers alike. Whether you're looking for nostalgia or want to challenge yourself with a more difficult game, Super Mario Bros. Deluxe is the perfect choice.