The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) has been a beloved console for generations of gamers, and one of its most iconic titles is Super Mario Bros. 3. Released in 1988, this platformer is still widely regarded as one of the best games of all time, and it's celebrating its 35th anniversary this year.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at Super Mario Bros. 3, including its history, gameplay, and impact on the gaming industry. We'll also discuss its age rating and how it has held up over the years.

History of Super Mario Bros. 3

Super Mario Bros. 3 was released in Japan on October 23, 1988, for the Famicom console. It was developed by Nintendo's legendary development team, led by the game's creator, Shigeru Miyamoto. The game was designed to be a sequel to Super Mario Bros., which had been released two years earlier.

Super Mario Bros. 3 introduced several new features that would become standard in platformers, including power-ups, Koopalings, and a variety of environments. The game's storyline follows Mario and Luigi as they travel through various kingdoms, battling against the evil Bowser and his seven Koopalings.

Gameplay

Super Mario Bros. 3 is a side-scrolling platformer that challenges players to guide Mario through increasingly difficult levels. The game features a range of power-ups, including mushrooms, fire flowers, and tanooki suits, which give Mario new abilities and enhance his existing ones.

One of the most iconic features of Super Mario Bros. 3 is its use of Koopalings. Each of the seven Koopalings has unique abilities and weaknesses, making them a fun and challenging part of the game. Players must use these powers against each other to progress through the levels.

The game also introduces new power-ups, such as the Kuribo's shoe, which allows Mario to walk on spiky surfaces and defeat enemies. Other new features include the ability to fly using the Tanooki Suit and the use of a hammer to break certain blocks.

Impact on the Gaming Industry

Super Mario Bros. 3 had a significant impact on the gaming industry when it was first released. The game's innovative gameplay, charming characters, and addictive difficulty made it an instant hit with gamers.

The game's success can be measured by its sales figures. Super Mario Bros. 3 has sold over 18 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling games of all time. Its impact on the platformer genre cannot be overstated, as many other games have followed in its footsteps.

Super Mario Bros. 3 also helped to establish Nintendo as a major player in the gaming industry. The game's success paved the way for future NES titles and cemented Nintendo's reputation as a developer of high-quality, family-friendly games.

Age Rating

The age rating for Super Mario Bros. 3 varies depending on the region and platform. In Japan, the game is rated G by the CERO (Computer Entertainment Rating Organization) for its mild violence and cartoonish characters.

In North America, the game was originally rated E by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) for its "mild cartoon violence" and "cartoon-like action." However, in 2020, Nintendo re-released the game as part of the Super NES Classic Edition, which features a new rating of E10+ for players aged 10 and above.

In Europe, the game is rated PEGI 3 for its "mild cartoon violence" and "cartoon-like action." The UK's Video Games Rating Board (VGRC) also rates the game as U (Universal), meaning it is suitable for all ages.

Re-releases and Legacy

Super Mario Bros. 3 has been re-released on several occasions over the years, including a Virtual Console release in 2006 and a Wii U Virtual Console release in 2014.

In recent years, Nintendo has released Super Mario Bros. 3 as part of its Super NES Classic Edition console, which features an assortment of classic NES games. The game is also available on the Nintendo Switch Online service, where it can be played by subscribers for free.

The game's legacy extends beyond its original release in 1988. Super Mario Bros. 3 has been referenced and parodied countless times in popular culture, including in TV shows, movies, and music videos.

Conclusion

Super Mario Bros. 3 is a timeless classic that continues to delight gamers of all ages. Its innovative gameplay, charming characters, and addictive difficulty have made it an instant hit with fans around the world.

As we celebrate its 35th anniversary, it's clear that Super Mario Bros. 3 remains one of the best games of all time. Whether you're a retro gaming enthusiast or just discovering the series for the first time, this game is a must-play experience.

Rating: E (US), PEGI 3 (EU), U (UK)

Recommended for players aged 8 and above

Please note that parental discretion is advised