That's not the Mario I know.

User Rating: 3.9 | Super Mario USA NES
I was pretty impressed by the first Super Mario Bros. for the NES. But when I played the sequel, I have to say I am disappointed with this game. This is not the Mario Bros. I knew. Now here's my review.

Gameplay: To start, the gameplay is not what you would expect from a Mario platformer. First, you pick one of four characters: Mario, Luigi, Peach and Toad. Each has their own pros and cons in their powers. However, the rest of the gameplay is horrific. For example, when you jump on an enemy, you don't defeat it. At all. Instead, you can pick them up and throw them at other enemies. You also pick up red grass for vegetables, and you can throw them at enemies too. Still, nothing sounds offensive, right? It's the "pick up and throw" element that hurts the game. I'd rather jump on enemies to kill them. Plus, you can grab a certain red grass, and a potion appears. When you throw it, a door appears on its landing spot. If you enter it, you are in a dark mirrored area. When you get red grass, you get coins. But those are coins that let you play the slot machine mini-game for a chance to win 1-Ups. There is also a mushroom that makes you more vitality. But Super Mario Bros. 2 doesn't actually feel like a traditional Mario game. It plays like something else that is pointless and lacking, which is why this game is not so great.

Graphics: Decent enough. However, the blue outline for the characters are the only flaw.

Sound: Some music is repetitive, and when you jump, you don't fully hear the jump sound from SMB1 and 3.

Value: If you're a fan of SMB, then you'll find this game not so replayable, since it doesn't feel like a Mario platformer game at all.

Tilt: All in all, SMB2 is a game that lacks all the precious Mario elements. If you want a better game starring the red plumber, then you're better off buying the first or the third, and staying away from this stench.