Mario '85

About

Mario '85 follows Lucas, a kid who gets an NES with Super Mario Bros during a 1985 Christmas. The game plays like a classic platformer where you jump over obstacles, collect coins, and stomp Goombas to reach the end of each level. Controls are tight and responsive, with a focus on precise timing and memorization of hazards. The world is split into distinct stages that mix vertical and horizontal challenges, all underpinned by a simple but effective soundtrack that evokes retro gaming vibes. The game stands out for its direct homage to 1980s design, with pixel art that mirrors the original Mario games. Players who grew up with the NES will appreciate the deliberate pacing and lack of modern gimmicks. Though short at around 3 hours, it prioritizes pure gameplay over polish, with a 4.2/5 rating from early reviewers praising its "nostalgic core loop." Best suited for brief play sessions, it’s a love letter to platforming basics without trying to be anything more.