SUPER MARIO ALL-STARS
Super Mario All-Stars, released for the SNES in 1993, is a compilation that reimagines four classic Mario games with enhanced visuals, improved audio, and refined gameplay. This collection includes Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels, Super Mario Bros. 2, and Super Mario Bros. 3, all originally released for the NES. By leveraging the capabilities of the SNES, Super Mario All-Stars revitalizes these iconic titles, offering a fresh yet faithful experience for both new and returning players.
The visuals in Super Mario All-Stars are a significant step forward from the NES originals. Each game is completely redrawn with 16-bit graphics, showcasing more detailed character sprites, smoother animations, and vibrant environments. Familiar locations like the Mushroom Kingdom, the mysterious worlds of Subcon, and Bowser’s castles are brought to life with expanded color palettes and intricate backgrounds. For example, the underwater levels now feature animated bubbles and shimmering effects, while the desert stages in Super Mario Bros. 3 display swirling dunes that add depth and atmosphere.
The character animations are more fluid, giving Mario, Luigi, and their enemies a renewed sense of life. The Koopas, Goombas, and Bowser himself all move with increased smoothness, and subtle touches, such as the bounce of Mario’s hat when he jumps, enhance the gameplay experience. These updates not only modernize the games but also retain their charm and simplicity.
The audio also benefits from the SNES hardware, with remastered soundtracks and sound effects that bring a richer, fuller experience. Classic tunes like the overworld theme from Super Mario Bros. and the jazzy tracks from Super Mario Bros. 2 are recreated with higher-quality instrumentation. The updated sound effects, such as the iconic coin chime and the fireball’s zip, feel more impactful while preserving the nostalgic essence of the originals.
Super Mario All-Stars also introduces a key gameplay improvement: a save system. Unlike the NES versions, which required players to complete the games in a single sitting, the SNES compilation allows progress to be saved, making these challenging games more accessible. This feature is especially helpful for The Lost Levels, known for its punishing difficulty.
The inclusion of The Lost Levels, the previously Japan-exclusive sequel to Super Mario Bros., adds historical significance to the collection. This game’s challenging level design and unique mechanics, like reverse warp zones and poison mushrooms, offer a fresh experience for players seeking an extra challenge.
Each game retains its original level design and mechanics, ensuring that the core gameplay remains unchanged. However, the enhancements in visuals, sound, and quality-of-life features elevate the experience, demonstrating the SNES’s ability to breathe new life into classic titles.
Super Mario All-Stars is more than just a compilation; it is a celebration of Mario’s legacy. By merging the timeless gameplay of the NES originals with the enhanced capabilities of the SNES, this collection offers an updated yet faithful homage to some of the most beloved platformers in gaming history. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Mario and the artistry of Nintendo’s game design.