Mario Bros. Special (2.8″ disk version)

A unique Mario experience on the Sharp MZ-1500

Mario Bros. Special for the Sharp MZ-1500 on 2.8″ “quick disk” format is an uncommon variation of the classic Mario game. Released in the mid-1980s, this version was designed specifically for the Sharp MZ-1500, a Japanese home computer that used a distinctive 2.8″ disk format instead of traditional cassette tapes or floppy disks. As with other iterations of Mario Bros. Special, this version preserves the arcade-style gameplay, where Mario and Luigi work together to clear levels of enemies in classic platforming action.

The charm of the 2.8″ “quick disk” format

The 2.8″ quick disk format, a unique storage medium in its time, was used by several home computers, including the Sharp MZ series. This disk format provided quicker loading times compared to cassette tapes, though it was not as widely adopted as the more common 5.25″ or 3.5″ floppy disks. The quick disk format, while less familiar to many, gave this version of Mario Bros. Special a distinctive charm and marked an interesting period in the history of home computing and gaming hardware.

A rare gem for collectors

This particular version of Mario Bros. Special is a rare find for collectors, especially for those interested in the Sharp MZ-1500 or the unusual formats used in early computer gaming. The game, distributed exclusively on quick disks, stands out as a collector’s item due to its limited availability and unique format. For retro gaming enthusiasts, it represents an interesting chapter in the history of Mario games beyond the usual consoles, making it a valuable piece for anyone looking to delve deeper into Mario’s diverse gaming history.

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