The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is a legendary console that brought countless hours of entertainment to gamers around the world. Released in 1985, the NES was known for its iconic games, innovative controllers, and unforgettable characters. One of the most beloved games on the NES is Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels, also known as Super Mario Bros. 2 in Japan, which is a part of the popular Super Mario series. However, another game that has garnered significant attention from gamers and critics alike is Super Mario Land for the Game Boy, not to be confused with the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). But it's worth mentioning that there are other platformer games available on NES like "Kid Icarus", "DuckTales" and so on.

In this article, we will explore the world of Super Mario Bros. 2: The Lost Levels, a game that has become synonymous with challenging gameplay and addictive fun. We'll delve into its history, gameplay mechanics, and what makes it stand out from other platformers of its time.

History

Super Mario Bros. 2 was released in Japan on February 20, 1988 for the Famicom, Nintendo's home console at the time. The game was developed by a team led by Takashi Tezuka, who would later become a renowned video game designer and director. The game was initially intended to be an entry for the Famicom's "Super Mario Bros." competition, but it ended up becoming one of the most popular games on the console.

The game's story revolves around Mario and his companions as they attempt to rescue Princess Peach from the clutches of Bowser. However, upon release in Japan, the game received mixed reviews, with some critics finding it too easy and others praising its unique gameplay mechanics.

When Super Mario Bros. 2 was released in North America in 1990, it was rebranded as Super Mario USA and underwent significant changes to make it more appealing to American audiences. The game's music, graphics, and even the game's name were altered to better suit Western tastes.

Gameplay Mechanics

Super Mario Bros. 2 is a side-scrolling platformer that follows the classic Mario formula, but with some key differences. Players control one of four characters: Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, or Toad. Each character has its unique abilities, which can be used to overcome obstacles and defeat enemies.

The game's gameplay mechanics are centered around exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving. Players must navigate through 8 worlds, each with eight levels, to reach the final showdown with Bowser. Along the way, they'll encounter various power-ups, such as mushrooms, fire flowers, and stars, which grant them new abilities or enhance their existing ones.

One of the game's most innovative features is its use of special items, such as the Hammer Bros. Suit, which allows players to throw hammers at enemies. The game also introduces the concept of "mini-bosses," powerful enemies that must be defeated in order to progress through the levels.

Age Rating

The age rating for Super Mario Bros. 2 has varied over time and across different regions. In Japan, the game was initially rated AO (Adults Only) by the Japanese government due to its graphic violence and suggestive content. However, this rating was later changed to C (Children) after Nintendo revised the game's content.

In North America, Super Mario Bros. 2 was rated E (Everyone) by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), which is equivalent to a T (Teen) rating today. The game's mild cartoon violence and mild suggestive humor made it suitable for players of all ages.

Impact and Legacy

Super Mario Bros. 2 has had a significant impact on the platformer genre and Nintendo's legacy as a gaming company. Its innovative gameplay mechanics, colorful graphics, and catchy music have inspired countless other games, including the popular Super Mario series.

The game's success also helped establish Nintendo as a major player in the North American market, paving the way for future titles like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Donkey Kong Country.

Conclusion

Super Mario Bros. 2: The Lost Levels is a game that has become an iconic part of gaming history, offering challenging gameplay, addictive fun, and memorable characters. Its innovative mechanics, colorful graphics, and catchy music have made it a beloved classic among gamers around the world.

While its age rating may vary depending on the region, Super Mario Bros. 2 remains suitable for players of all ages, thanks to its mild cartoon violence and humorous content. If you're looking for a challenging platformer that will test your skills and provide hours of entertainment, then Super Mario Bros. 2 is an excellent choice.

Rating: 9/10

Recommendation:

If you're interested in playing Super Mario Bros. 2, make sure to check the game's age rating before purchasing it. Depending on your region, you may need to download a modified version of the game or play it through an emulator.

Additionally, if you're looking for similar games, consider checking out other platformers like Kid Icarus, DuckTales, or even modern titles like Super Mario Odyssey or Celeste.

Keep in mind that some versions of Super Mario Bros. 2 may have slightly different gameplay mechanics or content compared to the original release. Always make sure to check the game's reviews and ratings before purchasing it.

That's all for this article about Super Mario Bros. 2: The Lost Levels, a game that has left an indelible mark on gaming history. We hope you enjoyed our journey through the world of platformers and exploring the iconic Mario series. Until next time, happy gaming!