Super Mario Run is a popular mobile game developed and published by Nintendo for iOS and Android devices. It was released on December 15, 2016, and marked Nintendo's first major foray into the mobile gaming market. Super Mario Run achieved significant success upon its release, quickly becoming one of the most downloaded mobile games. It reached over 200 million downloads worldwide within a few months.
It is an auto-running platformer game where players control Mario as he automatically runs from left to right. The objective is to navigate through various levels, overcome obstacles, collect coins, and reach the flagpole at the end to complete the level. The game incorporates elements of traditional Mario games, such as jumping on enemies and avoiding hazards, but with simplified controls adapted for mobile devices.
Addictive Gameplay
Auto-Running: In Super Mario Run, Mario automatically runs from left to right, and your primary task is to control his actions and timing.
Tap to Jump: The core control mechanic revolves around tapping the screen to make Mario jump. The longer you hold the screen, the higher Mario jumps. Timing your jumps accurately is crucial to avoid obstacles and enemies or to collect coins and power-ups.
Collect Coins: As you progress through levels, your objective is to collect as many coins as possible. Coins can be found floating in the air, hidden in blocks, or placed strategically along the platforms. Collecting coins contributes to your overall score and can unlock bonus content.
Power-Ups and Items: Throughout the levels, you can encounter power-up items such as mushrooms that make Mario grow in size or stars that grant temporary invincibility. These power-ups help Mario overcome obstacles and defeat enemies.
Four Game Modes
World Tour: In this mode, you embark on an adventure through different worlds and levels, reminiscent of traditional Mario games. Each world features a variety of themed levels, including grasslands, underground caverns, ghost houses, and more. You'll encounter classic enemies, utilize power-ups, and face off against challenging bosses.
Toad Rally: Super Mario Run includes a multiplayer mode called "Toad Rally." In this mode, you compete against the ghost data of other players. The goal is to perform stylish moves, collect coins, and impress Toad characters. By winning Toad Rally matches, you earn Toad followers, which can be used to unlock additional content.
Remix 10: It consists of a series of bite-sized, randomly generated mini-levels that are shorter than traditional levels in the game. Each mini-level lasts around 10 seconds or less, creating a fast-paced and exciting experience.
One of the key features of Remix 10 is the inclusion of various elements from different Super Mario games. As you play through the mini-levels, you'll encounter different themes, such as underground levels, castle levels, and more.
Kingdom Builder: The game features a Kingdom Builder mode, where you can use the coins collected in the levels to construct and customize your own Mushroom Kingdom. You can place buildings, decorations, and other elements to create a unique kingdom.
Iconic Mario Experience
Super Mario Run captures the essence of the classic Super Mario games, offering a familiar and nostalgic experience. The game incorporates beloved elements such as Mushroom Kingdom, iconic enemies like Goombas and Koopas, and the cheerful soundtrack that Mario fans know and love.
One-Handed Controls
The game is designed to be played with one hand, making it accessible and easy to pick up for players of all ages and skill levels. By simply tapping the screen, you can make Mario jump, avoiding obstacles and enemies effortlessly.
Beautiful Graphics and Animations
Super Mario Run boasts colorful and vibrant graphics that bring the Mushroom Kingdom to life. The environments, characters, and animations are visually appealing, showcasing the attention to detail that Nintendo is known for.
Challenging Level Design
The game offers a variety of meticulously designed levels with increasing difficulty. Each level is filled with unique obstacles, platforming challenges, and secret areas to discover. The goal is not only to complete the level but also to collect coins and achieve the highest score possible.
Coin Collection
In addition to completing levels, Super Mario Run encourages players to collect coins. Coin Rush mode challenges you to collect as many coins as possible within a time limit, testing your speed and precision. There are also special coin collection challenges in each level, where you need to find and collect specific colored coins to unlock more content.
Potential Shortcoming
Limited Replayability: Once players complete the main levels and collect all the colored coins, the replay value of the game may diminish.
Internet Requirement: Super Mario Run requires a stable internet connection to play, even in single-player modes. This online requirement may inconvenience players in areas with poor connectivity or restrict gameplay options when offline.
Conclusion
Super Mario Run brings the magic of the Super Mario franchise to the mobile gaming platform. With its accessible gameplay, charming graphics, and nostalgic appeal, it appeals to both longtime fans and casual players. While it has some minor drawbacks such as limited replayability and Internet connection requirements, the overall experience is polished, enjoyable, and well-suited for on-the-go gaming.
