Super Mario Bros. 2 / JAP

With Super Mario Bros. 2, Nintendo released the direct sequel to the legendary original in Japan in 1986 - exclusively for the Famicom Disk System. At first glance, the game looks familiar: the graphics, music and controls are very reminiscent of the first part. However, under the surface is a real hardcore platformer that will make even experienced players break out in a sweat.

In new, cleverly designed levels, you will encounter dangerous chasms, treacherous gusts of wind and nasty traps such as the infamous poison mushroom - an item that makes Mario smaller instead of taller. For the first time, Mario and Luigi differ in their gameplay: Luigi jumps higher, but slides more - which brings new challenges.

The game rewards precise timing, patience and skill. Those who manage to master all levels without warp zones even unlock secret bonus worlds. Due to its extremely high level of difficulty, the game was not released outside Japan for a long time. It was not released in the West until years later under the title "Super Mario Bros: The Lost Levels" - where it quickly became a cult among retro fans.