Play Super Mario Land 4 Online

Super Mario Land 4, released for the original Game Boy, was developed by Nintendo and offered a fresh take on the platforming formula within the constraints of the handheld. It arrived during a period when developers were pushing the limits of the hardware, creating experiences that felt distinct from their console counterparts. The game didn't just rehash old ideas; it introduced a new antagonist and a different structure, making it a notable entry rather than a simple continuation.

You control Mario through a series of themed worlds, each composed of individual levels you traverse from left to right. The main objective is to rescue Princess Peach from the new villain, Wario, who has taken over the castle. Signature mechanics include the ability to collect coins to unlock later stages and the introduction of new power-ups, like the Carrot that gives Mario bunny ears for a floating jump. The pacing is brisk, with levels that demand quick reactions and precise jumps, though the difficulty remains fair and approachable. It feels compact and inventive, a game that makes the most of its small screen with clever ideas and tight controls.