Super Mario World

A bold new adventure in Dinosaur Land

Super Mario World (1990), released for the Super Famicom in Japan, is one of the most iconic games in the Mario franchise. As a launch title for the system, it helped establish the Super Famicom (and later the Super Nintendo Entertainment System) as a powerhouse for 16-bit gaming. The game introduced players to the expansive world of Dinosaur Land, where Mario must rescue Princess Toadstool from the clutches of Bowser. Alongside his trusted companion Yoshi, Mario navigates colorful landscapes, from grassy plains to haunted castles, encountering various enemies and obstacles.

Innovation and the introduction of Yoshi

One of the standout features of Super Mario World was its ability to blend traditional Mario platforming with a more intricate map system, allowing players to explore levels and uncover secrets in non-linear ways. The game also introduced the world to Yoshi, the lovable green dinosaur who not only helps Mario by eating enemies but also provides a range of abilities with his various colored variants. The addition of Yoshi added depth to the gameplay, with new mechanics that kept the experience fresh and exciting.

A lasting legacy in gaming history

Super Mario World is often regarded as one of the greatest video games of all time. Its seamless level design, delightful music, and creative use of the Super Famicom’s hardware made it a milestone in video game history. The game’s impact is still felt today, influencing countless platformers and being re-released on various systems, from the Game Boy Advance to the Nintendo Switch Online service. Its legacy as a timeless classic is solidified in the hearts of fans worldwide.

---

See also the Japanese yellow box and