Release (UK): 28/04/1989
NES-MW-UKV
Release (USA): 09/10/1988
NES-MW-USA
Release (Jap): 14/09/1992
HVC-MT
Genre: Platform
Developer: Nintendo Co., Ltd.
Publisher: Nintendo Co., Ltd.
A quirky departure from the original formula
Super Mario USA is the Japanese version of Super Mario Bros. 2, which had previously been released in North America in 1988. Unlike the traditional side-scrolling Mario formula, this game introduced unique mechanics, such as the ability to pick up and throw objects and enemies. Players could choose between Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Toad, each with distinct abilities that altered gameplay. The game’s dreamlike setting, Subcon, and its unusual villains, such as Birdo and Mouser, made it stand out from other entries in the series.
New gameplay mechanics and characters
Interestingly, Super Mario USA originated from Yume Kōjō: Doki Doki Panic, a completely different game that Nintendo modified to include Mario characters for the Western release. When it came time to bring the game to Japan, it was rebranded as Super Mario USA, making it a fascinating piece of Mario history. Despite its unconventional origins, the game has been embraced as an official part of the franchise, with many of its characters and mechanics influencing later Mario titles, including the return of Birdo as a recurring character in the series.
See also the UK version.