Play Super Mario Bros 3 (J) Online

Super Mario Bros 3 (J) still holds up as one of the tightest platformers on the NES. The first thing you notice is how much smoother Mario controls compared to earlier games—the way he builds momentum when running feels just right.

Each world has its own gimmick, like the auto-scrolling airship levels or the giant enemies in World 4. The power-ups change how you approach everything, especially the Tanooki suit letting you slow your fall or even fly if you get the timing down.

Some of the later levels get brutal with hidden blocks and tricky jumps, but it never feels unfair. Super Mario Bros 3 (J) makes you want to master its mechanics rather than just rush through.