A landmark side-scrolling platformer that refined the Mario formula with world maps, diverse suits, and playful level design across the Mushroom World.
- Developer: Nintendo EAD (Director: Takashi Tezuka; Producer: Shigeru Miyamoto)
- Release: 1988 (Famicom/NES, Japan), 1990 (North America/Europe); many later re-releases
- Genre: Platformer
- Notable mechanics: World map with branching paths and mini-games, power-ups like Super Leaf (Raccoon Mario) and Tanooki Suit, Koopalings boss variety, airship stages
- Reception: Widely acclaimed as one of the greatest video games of all time; a best-seller that defined platforming polish and creativity