The Highlights and Drawbacks of Super Mario Games

Reflecting on the brilliance of Super Mario Bros. 3, it’s hard not to spotlight Giant Land as a highlight. This fourth world is a testament to the series’ creativity, where everything is magnified, from colossal goombas and koopas to towering blocks and piranha plants. The drastic change in scale injects a fresh sense of wonder and surprise. Yet, what’s remarkable about this installment isn’t just Giant Land. It’s the imaginative approach that the developers embraced throughout the game, turning each world into a unique chapter of your grand quest to overcome Bowser and his minions.

On the flip side, let’s talk about the notorious autoscrollers. Bowser’s airships do pack a punch, painting him not just as a bumbling villain but as a serious threat with an entire army at his command. However, the rigidly-paced scrolling during these stages can feel more like a shackle than a challenge. The game shines brightest when it allows Mario to run, jump, and explore with fluidity and speed, something these levels often restrict. As you near the game’s climax, the string of autoscrollers in Bowser’s domain—his armored tanks, naval forces, and numerous airships—can feel tiresome. Though these stages aim to bolster Bowser’s feared presence, they end up hindering the exhilarating momentum, much to the frustration of players eager for speed and agility.

If you’re curious about behind-the-scenes tidbits, there’s also an interesting twist regarding Chris Pratt’s original voice for Mario in the Super Mario Bros. movie—it was initially considered a bit too ‘New Jersey’ for the character!