Episode 46: Super Mario World

Retro Spectives

The Super Mario franchise is what many would label as the dawn of videogames. While it wasn't the first, its impact on the infant medium of gaming was certainly the biggest and to this day the franchise is held in high-regard.

But even in a franchise filled to the brim with historic titles, there are some that shine brighter than others. Released in 1990 alongside the launch of the SNES, Super Mario World is often argued to be one of the greatest 2D platformers ever made. Filled with unique ideas, zany power-ups and a gorgeous aesthetic, Super Mario World has won the hearts of many.

But just how well does this classic game hold up against modern platforming gems like Celeste and Super Meat Boy?

To answer this, we discuss:

• Super Mario World is a much looser experience compared to many modern platformers. Is this a bad thing or can playground-esque level design still keep up with the precision platformers of the present?
• Platformers live or die by their controls; does Mario steer like a truck or is there something to be said for commiting to your actions?
• In the past Patrick has had a low opinion of cartoony graphics, but can Super Mario World's sheer charm win him over in the end?

Find out on the 46th episode of the Retro Spectives Podcast!

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Intro Music: KieLoBot - Tanzen K

Outro Music: Rockit Maxx - One point to another

Super Mario World Soundtrack - Koji Kondo

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Is Super Mario World just as good as people say? Or is it simply overrated? You can suggest new games for us to play or tell us exactly why we’re wrong on our text based community discord server!