Super Mario Bros. 2 vs Super Mario Bros. 3
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Super Mario Bros. 2 takes players on a colorful journey through dreamlike worlds, introducing new characters and unique abilities that refresh the beloved series. The game blends classic platforming with inventive level design, offering both challenge and charm for players of all ages. Originally released in 1988, this title remains a staple of Nintendo's catalog, celebrated for its cooperative feel and imaginative environments. Its timeless gameplay continues to delight both nostalgic fans and new players alike.
Super Mario Bros. 3 takes players on a vibrant journey across eight distinct worlds, each packed with hidden secrets, power‑ups, and challenging enemies. With its innovative map system and diverse level design, the game offers endless replayability for both newcomers and seasoned gamers. Originally released in 1988, this timeless classic continues to captivate audiences with its tight controls, memorable music, and imaginative level themes, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of the platform genre.
- Iconic characters with unique abilities
- Creative level design with multiple routes
- Charming art and music
- Easy to pick up, hard to master
- Timeless level design
- Rich variety of power‑ups
- High replay value
- Great for co‑op play
- Limited multiplayer options (single‑player only)
- Some levels can feel repetitive
- Graphics are dated by modern standards
- Limited modern accessibility options
- No online multiplayer
- Graphics are dated by today’s standards
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Alternatives to Super Mario Bros. 2
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Dive into the first 3‑D Mario adventure and explore a kingdom of endless platforms and secrets.
Alternatives to Super Mario Bros. 3
View all →Dive into the first 3‑D Mario adventure and explore a kingdom of endless platforms and secrets.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataSuper Mario Bros. 3 is the safer default choice for its higher critic score (92/100) and inclusion of two-player multiplayer, while Super Mario Bros. 2 trades multiplayer for a single-player experience featuring four distinct playable characters.
Key differences
- •Super Mario Bros. 3 features a two-player alternating mode, whereas Super Mario Bros. 2 is strictly single-player.
- •Super Mario Bros. 3 includes a strategic overworld map for selecting worlds and supports a save-state feature on modern platforms, features not mentioned for SMB2.
- •Super Mario Bros. 2 lets players select from four distinct characters with unique abilities, while SMB3 focuses on power-ups like the Super Leaf.
- •Super Mario Bros. 3 has a known MSRP of $49.99 and a critic score of 92/100, whereas SMB2 has not specified pricing and no listed critic score.
Gameplay & fun factor
SMB3 features iconic power-ups like the Super Leaf for flying and a 92/100 critic score, showing stronger overall reception.
Platform availability
Not specified for both products regarding specific supported platforms beyond general modern platform save-states for SMB3.
Price & value
SMB3 has a clear MSRP of $49.99, whereas SMB2 has its pricing not specified in the provided data.
Multiplayer / co-op
SMB3 supports multiplayer with a two-player alternating mode, whereas SMB2 is strictly single player.
Content & replayability
Both offer secret exits, hidden items, and exploration, though SMB3 adds a strategic overworld map and warp zones.
Difficulty & accessibility
Both share PEGI 3 and ESRB E age ratings, with SMB2 highlighting an accessible control scheme and SMB3 adding save-states.
Graphics & performance
Both feature dated graphics by modern standards, while SMB2 boasts a vibrant, hand-drawn art style and SMB3 dynamic music.
Choose Super Mario Bros. 2 if…
Choose SMB2 if you want to play as four distinct characters using a unique vegetable-throwing mechanic in single-player.
Choose Super Mario Bros. 3 if…
Choose SMB3 if you want a top-tier rated platformer with two-player co-op and a strategic overworld map.
Common questions
How much does Super Mario Bros. 3 cost?
The MSRP for Super Mario Bros. 3 is $49.99.
Can I play Super Mario Bros. 2 with a friend?
No, Super Mario Bros. 2 is single-player only.
Which game includes multiplayer?
Super Mario Bros. 3 supports a two-player alternating mode, while Super Mario Bros. 2 is single-player only.