The Game & Watch: Super Mario Bros., released by Nintendo in 2020, was a retro-inspired handheld console that celebrated the 35th anniversary of the original *Super Mario Bros.* game. It's not just a simple re-release; it's a nostalgic nod to Nintendo's history, harking back to the original Game & Watch series from the 1980s that helped popularize handheld gaming. This commemorative edition came pre-loaded with the original *Super Mario Bros.* game, *Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels*, and a special version of *Ball* featuring Mario. The device itself is designed to resemble the classic Game & Watch form factor, providing a charmingly retro gaming experience for both longtime fans and newcomers.
Beyond its gaming capabilities, the Game & Watch: Super Mario Bros. also functions as a digital clock. When not in use for gaming, the device displays the time with animated scenes featuring Mario and other characters from the Mushroom Kingdom. This dual functionality adds to its appeal as a collectible item and a functional piece of retro-inspired technology. While it offered a limited selection of games compared to modern consoles, its focus on delivering a pure, nostalgic experience centered around the iconic *Super Mario Bros.* made it a popular and sought-after item. The limited production run further contributed to its collectibility, making it a memorable part of Nintendo's legacy.
The Game & Watch: Super Mario Bros. achieved considerable success upon its release. Critics and fans alike praised its faithful recreation of the classic Game & Watch experience, its nostalgic appeal, and its charming design. The device's simplicity and focus on the original *Super Mario Bros.* game resonated with those who grew up playing the title, while also introducing a new generation to the joys of classic 8-bit gaming. Its limited availability and the overall demand created a high resale value, making it a valuable collector's item for years to come. The Game & Watch: Super Mario Bros. represents a successful blend of nostalgia, simplicity, and iconic gaming, solidifying its place in gaming history.
2020
NINTENDO
G&W SUPER MARIO BROS
📜 History & Legacy
⚙️ Specifications
- ❖ CPU: Undisclosed (likely a low-power ARM processor)
- ❖ GPU: Integrated within the CPU
- ❖ RAM: Undisclosed (sufficient for running the included games)
- ❖ Storage: Integrated Flash Memory (sufficient for storing the included games)
- ❖ Media: Pre-loaded ROM
- ❖ Display: Color LCD screen (2.36 inches)
- ❖ Battery: Lithium-ion rechargeable battery (USB-C charging)
- ❖ Connectivity: None (no wireless or external ports beyond USB-C for charging)
- ❖ Audio: Single speaker
- ❖ Input: D-pad and A/B buttons
🎮 Top 10 Games
- ★ Super Mario Bros.
- ★ Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels
- ★ Ball (Mario Version)
💡 Curiosities
- ? Did you know the Game & Watch: Super Mario Bros. was released to celebrate the 35th anniversary of Super Mario Bros.?
- ? The device can also function as a digital clock with animated Mario scenes.
- ? The 'Ball' game included is a modified version of the original Game & Watch title, featuring Mario.
- ? The console's design is a direct homage to the original Game & Watch series from the 1980s.
- ? The device is charged via a USB-C port, a modern convenience not found on the original Game & Watch.
- ? The Game & Watch: Super Mario Bros. was a limited-edition release, making it a collector's item.
- ? The screen size is 2.36 inches, providing a retro gaming experience.
- ? The device features a D-pad and A/B buttons, mirroring the control scheme of the original NES.
- ? The inclusion of *Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels* offered a more challenging experience for experienced players.
- ? The packaging of the Game & Watch: Super Mario Bros. was also designed to evoke a sense of nostalgia, resembling classic Nintendo products.