Mario Bros — Review

Genre: action

Get ready to dive into the iconic world of Mario Bros, a timeless action game that still delivers high-speed thrills today. As a speedrunner, I'm always on the lookout for games that offer a perfect blend of challenge and repetition, and Mario Bros checks all the right boxes.

The core loop of Mario Bros is simple yet addictive: guide your plumber through treacherous underground tunnels, dodging enemies and collecting power-ups to rescue the princess. The game's layout is expertly designed to encourage exploration and route optimization, making each run feel unique and engaging. Whether you're a seasoned speedrunner or just starting out, the thrill of navigating these tight tunnels is impossible to resist.

Controls are tight and responsive, whether you're using a keyboard, touch screen, or controller. For keyboard players, I recommend using the arrow keys for movement and the space bar for jumping – it's a tried-and-true combo that works like a charm. One small tip: keep an eye on your character's momentum, as it can make all the difference in tight spots.

As you progress through the game, you'll start to notice subtle improvements in your run times. One key area to focus on is enemy avoidance – the more efficiently you can sidestep Goombas and other baddies, the faster you'll be. Scoring ideas abound, from collecting power-ups to executing precise jumps, so be sure to experiment and find your own optimal strategy.

Quick tip: running Mario Bros in an iframe can be a bit finicky, so try switching to full-screen mode for a cleaner viewing experience. With a little practice and patience, you'll be blazing through levels in no time. Verdict: Mario Bros is a timeless classic that's just as fun today as it was back in the day. Give it a try and see for yourself why it remains a speedrunning staple.