Cómo Super Mario Bros. 3 revolucionó los videojuegos y marcó el legado de Mario hasta hoy

Super Mario Bros. 3 is more than just a game; it’s a cornerstone of video game history that, since its release in 1988 in Japan for the NES, transformed the industry and laid the foundation for the Mario franchise’s future. This title, considered one of the best games of all time according to lists like the 30 Best NES Games, introduced mechanics, ideas, and a design so visionary that they still resonate in modern Mario titles available on the Nintendo Switch.

Below, we explore the main innovations that Super Mario Bros. 3 brought to the world and how they continue to influence Nintendo and fans up to 2025:

An interactive map that brought the Mushroom Kingdom to life

One of the greatest innovations of Super Mario Bros. 3 was its world map. Unlike previous games, where levels followed a linear progression, this title introduced an interactive map with multiple paths, themed worlds, and secrets for players to explore. This concept not only added depth but also created a sense of adventure and freedom that remains in modern entries like Super Mario Odyssey (2017) and Super Mario Bros. Wonder (2023).

The map of Super Mario Bros. 3 allowed players to choose alternative routes, tackle mini-games, and discover shortcuts, an idea that evolved in the open worlds of Super Mario Odyssey and the interconnected circuits of Mario Kart World for Nintendo Switch 2. This dynamic world design remains a standard in the franchise, showcasing how an idea from 1988 is still relevant today.

Iconic power-ups that shaped Mario

Super Mario Bros. 3 introduced some of the most iconic power-ups in the franchise, such as the Tanooki Leaf, the Super Star, and the Fire Flower. These elements not only diversified gameplay but also gave Mario unique abilities, like flying or turning into a statue. The Tanooki Leaf, in particular, became a symbol of Nintendo’s creativity and has reappeared in games like Super Mario 3D Land and New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe.

These power-ups were not just fun, but also offered a strategic approach: players could store items in an inventory to use them at the right moment. This resource management mechanic has persisted in modern titles, such as Super Mario Bros. Wonder, where players can store badges to adapt their playstyle. The influence of these power-ups is undeniable, and their legacy remains an essential part of Mario’s charm.

Variety of levels and innovative design

The level design of Super Mario Bros. 3 is a masterpiece that marked a before and after. Each world had a unique theme, from scorching deserts to floating castles, with enemies and challenges tailored to each environment. Additionally, it introduced bonus levels, fortresses, and battles against the Koopalings, Bowser’s sons, adding diversity and a richer narrative.

This design philosophy is reflected in recent titles, such as those highlighted in the 20 Best Super Mario Games list. For example, Super Mario Odyssey takes level variety to a new level with its unique realms, while Super Mario Party Jamboree includes boards and mini-games that echo the Toad Houses and challenges of Super Mario Bros. 3. Nintendo’s ability to create vibrant and varied worlds has its roots in this classic.

A deeper and more charismatic narrative

Although Mario games aren’t known for complex stories, Super Mario Bros. 3 took a step forward by introducing the Koopalings and a more theatrical context: Bowser and his sons conquer the kingdoms of the world, and Mario must rescue the kings. This narrative, presented as a play (with curtains and stages at the start of the game), added a touch of charisma that has remained in the franchise.

Today, games like Super Mario RPG (2023 remaster) and Paper Mario: The Origami King (2020) continue to explore more elaborate narratives, while the inclusion of characters like Peach and Luigi in more active roles (as in Princess Peach: Showtime! from 2024) reflects the evolution of that narrative spark that began with Super Mario Bros. 3.

Super Mario Bros. 3 Cover, NES

Multiplayer and shared fun

Super Mario Bros. 3 allowed two players to alternate as Mario and Luigi, a mechanic that, although simple, laid the groundwork for the cooperative multiplayer of the franchise. This idea expanded in games like New Super Mario Bros. Wii and Super Mario 3D World, where up to four players can enjoy together. The enhanced version of Super Mario Party Jamboree for Nintendo Switch 2, with its Jamboree TV mode and support for up to four players, demonstrates how shared fun remains a core aspect of the franchise, inspired by the NES classic.

Legacy on the Nintendo Switch and the future

The impact of Super Mario Bros. 3 isn’t limited to its time. Its influence is felt on the Nintendo Switch, with titles like Super Mario Bros. Wonder and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, which borrow its design ideas, variety, and creativity. Moreover, with the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2025 and rumors of a new 3D Mario game, it is evident that the innovations of this classic will continue to shape the future of the franchise.

On the 40th anniversary of Mario in 2025, Nintendo celebrated with events like Mario Day (MAR10 Day) and discounts on games like Super Mario Bros. Wonder and Luigi’s Mansion 3 (Nintenderos, March 10, 2025). These celebrations highlight how Super Mario Bros. 3 was not only a milestone but also a starting point for the evolution of one of the most beloved video game franchises.

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A classic that never ages

Super Mario Bros. 3 not only defined an era but also set a standard for quality and creativity that continues to inspire Nintendo and the industry. From its interactive map to its power-ups and level design, this game is the foundation of many mechanics we love in modern Mario titles. If you want to relive this classic, it is available on Nintendo Switch Online and its legacy lives on in every new game of the world’s most famous plumber.

What is your favorite memory of Super Mario Bros. 3? Let us know in the comments!