New Super Mario Bros. vs Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
New Super Mario Bros. brings the beloved side‑scrolling Mario experience to a modern handheld, combining tight controls with vibrant 2D graphics. Players dash, jump, and collect coins across dozens of inventive worlds filled with secrets and challenges. The game supports both solo play and cooperative multiplayer, letting friends team up to tackle levels together while discovering hidden paths and power‑up combos. Its timeless design appeals to newcomers and longtime fans alike.
Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels revisits the original 1985 platforming formula, adding new world designs, higher difficulty, and fresh power‑up placements. Originally released only in Japan, it later reached worldwide audiences via virtual console services, preserving its retro charm while testing even veteran players. The game retains the iconic side‑scrolling action, precise controls, and memorable music, while introducing new obstacles like poison mushrooms and more complex enemy patterns. Its timeless gameplay makes it a perfect showcase of early platform design for both nostalgic fans and new players seeking a true retro challenge.
- Tight, responsive controls that feel classic yet fresh.
- Rich variety of power‑ups and level designs.
- Engaging multiplayer modes for up to four players.
- High replay value with secret exits and collectibles.
- Authentic 8‑bit graphics and sound
- High replay value with hidden secrets
- Challenging difficulty for seasoned players
- Two‑player alternating mode adds social fun
- Limited online features; focus is on local play.
- Graphics, while charming, may feel dated compared to modern 3D titles.
- No built‑in level editor for user‑generated content.
- Very steep learning curve for newcomers
- Limited modern accessibility options
- No online multiplayer features
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Alternatives to Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels
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Mario returns to reclaim his kingdom in a classic 2D adventure.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataNew Super Mario Bros. is the safer, modern default offering polished controls and simultaneous co-op, whereas Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels is a punishing, retro challenge built for hardcore enthusiasts.
Key differences
- •New Super Mario Bros. features simultaneous local multiplayer for up to four players, while The Lost Levels only supports a two-player alternating mode.
- •New Super Mario Bros. includes over 80 levels and a $59.99 MSRP, whereas pricing is not specified for The Lost Levels.
- •The Lost Levels includes a save state function on modern consoles and an optional assist mode, which are absent in New Super Mario Bros.
- •New Super Mario Bros. boasts a high critic score of 95/100, while The Lost Levels has no critic score listed.
Gameplay & fun factor
Offers responsive controls for beginners and experts with fresh power-ups like the Mega Mushroom, scoring a high 95/100 critic score.
Platform availability
Platform availability is not specified for either game in the provided data.
Price & value
Priced at a one-time MSRP of $59.99 with over 80 levels; pricing for The Lost Levels is not specified.
Multiplayer / co-op
Supports up to four players in simultaneous local cooperative or competitive challenges, compared to a two-player alternating mode in The Lost Levels.
Content & replayability
Features over 80 levels across eight worlds with hidden secret exits, compared to 32 challenging levels in The Lost Levels.
Difficulty & accessibility
Includes modern convenience features like a save state function and an optional assist mode, though it maintains a steep learning curve.
Graphics & performance
Features charming 3D-era visuals and a dynamic camera, while The Lost Levels retains an authentic 8-bit aesthetic and soundtrack.
Choose New Super Mario Bros. if…
Families and players wanting a polished, simultaneous co-op platformer with modern controls and high replayability.
Choose Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels if…
Retro enthusiasts seeking a steep, punishing platforming challenge with authentic 8-bit style and save states.
Common questions
How much does Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels cost?
Pricing is not specified in the provided data.
Can I play multiplayer with friends in New Super Mario Bros.?
Yes, it supports local multiplayer for up to four players in cooperative or competitive challenges.
Does The Lost Levels include any modern assist features?
Yes, it offers an optional assist mode that reduces enemy speed and includes a save state function on modern consoles.