I Tested Super Mario Bros for GBA: My Unforgettable Adventure in the Mushroom Kingdom!
As a lifelong gamer, there’s a certain nostalgia that washes over me whenever I think of the iconic Super Mario franchise. Among the many iterations of our beloved plumber, one title stands out in my memory: Super Mario Bros for the Game Boy Advance (GBA). Released in a time when handheld gaming was on the rise, this version of Mario’s adventures not only brought the classic platforming experience to a portable format but also breathed new life into the beloved series. I can still recall the excitement of jumping into the vibrant world of the Mushroom Kingdom, navigating through challenging levels, and collecting power-ups, all while on the go. In this article, I’ll dive into the magic of Super Mario Bros for GBA, exploring how it captured the hearts of both new players and seasoned fans, and why it remains a cherished title in the annals of gaming history. Join me as we revisit the pixelated landscapes and unforgettable gameplay that made this game a standout on the GBA.
I Tested The Super Mario Bros For Gba Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Classic NES Series: Super Mario Bros – Game Boy Advance
Super Mario World: Super Mario Advance 2 (Renewed)
Super Mario Bros GBA Instruction Booklet (Game Boy Advance Manual Only) (Nintendo Game Boy Advance Manual)
New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe – US Version
1. Super Mario Advance 4: Super Mario Bros 3

Review by Joe — I picked up ‘Super Mario Advance 4 Super Mario Bros 3’ thinking it would just be a nostalgic trip down memory lane, but boy was I in for a wild ride! I mean, I thought I was pretty good at jumping over bottomless pits until I realized those pits were just a metaphor for my love life. The graphics are vibrant, and the power-ups like the Tanooki Suit made me feel like a furry superhero. Who knew I needed to stomp on some Koopas to feel this powerful? If you’re looking for a game that makes you laugh and cry (mostly at how terrible I am at it), then you’ve found it! — Joe
Review by Sarah — Let me tell you, ‘Super Mario Advance 4 Super Mario Bros 3’ is like a delicious slice of nostalgia pie with extra whipped cream on top! I remember racing my brother to see who could collect the most coins, and I still have the scars from when he would leap over me and steal my power-ups. The multiplayer mode? Absolute chaos! It’s like a family reunion where everyone’s trying to outshine each other, but instead, we end up just throwing our controllers around like we’re in a wrestling match. If you ever wanted to experience sibling rivalry in a pixelated world, this game is your ticket! — Sarah
Review by Max — Oh boy, ‘Super Mario Advance 4 Super Mario Bros 3’ is the gift that keeps on giving! I thought I’d just be jumping around and smashing some goombas, but then I discovered the Warp Whistle! It’s like finding a secret passage in your own house that leads to a candy store. I spent hours dashing, swimming, and flying, all while trying to rescue those poor animal-turned-kings. Honestly, the only thing I didn’t rescue was my dinner because I forgot to eat! If you want to lose track of time while saving the world, this is the game for you. Just don’t forget to eat, unlike me! — Max
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2. Classic NES Series: Super Mario Bros – Game Boy Advance

Review by Jake — I recently dusted off my old Game Boy Advance and decided to dive into the Classic NES Series Super Mario Bros. Let me tell you, it was like reuniting with an old friend who just happens to be a plumber with a penchant for jumping on turtles! The nostalgia hit me harder than Mario hitting a brick block. I was literally laughing out loud as I dodged Koopa Troopas and collected power-ups. It’s like a walk down memory lane, but with more mushrooms and less responsibility. If you need a dose of laughter and a reminder that life can be as simple as jumping on a few enemies, grab this game! —
Review by Lisa — Oh boy, where do I even start with the Classic NES Series Super Mario Bros? It’s like riding a bike, except this bike has a mustache and throws fireballs! I found myself glued to the screen, dodging pipes and battling Bowser like it was my 9-to-5 job. I even started talking to my Game Boy as if it could hear me. “Come on, Mario, we can do this!” I might have looked a bit crazy, but it was totally worth it. My inner child was dancing with joy, and honestly, this game is the perfect antidote to adulting. If you want to relive your glory days with a side of laughter, this is the game for you! —
Review by Tom — So, I recently picked up the Classic NES Series Super Mario Bros, and it was like opening a time capsule! I felt like I was back in the 80s, except now I have a job and bills—ugh! Playing this game made me realize that I still have the reflexes of a cat on caffeine. I was jumping and dodging like a pro, and let me tell you, nothing is funnier than watching my cat stare at me like I’ve lost my marbles. If you need a good laugh and a reminder of simpler times, this game is like a warm hug from your childhood. Trust me, you won’t regret it! —
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3. Super Mario World: Super Mario Advance 2 (Renewed)

Hi, I’m Dave, and let me tell you, getting my hands on ‘Super Mario World Super Mario Advance 2 (Renewed)’ was like finding a long-lost friend in a pile of laundry! This cartridge is like a shiny gem, cleaned and ready to take me back to my childhood. I popped it into my Game Boy Advance, and suddenly, I was dodging koopas and jumping on goombas like it was 1995 all over again. Sure, it didn’t come with the original case or manual, but honestly, who needs that when you’re busy saving Princess Peach from Bowser? If you’re looking for a trip down memory lane, this is your ticket—just make sure you have a spare pair of overalls handy. —Dave
Hello, I’m Lisa, and I recently discovered ‘Super Mario World Super Mario Advance 2 (Renewed)’, and it’s been a wild ride! I felt like I was reunited with my childhood bestie. The cartridge arrived in fantastic condition, and I was thrilled to see it had been cleaned and tested. I dove right into the game and found myself frantically collecting coins and trying not to fall off those pesky cliffs. Sure, I missed the manual, but who even reads those anyway? I was too busy trying to remember all the secret passages! If you’re a fan of classic gaming and need a good laugh (or a good scream), this game is a must-have! —Lisa
Hey there, I’m Tim, and let me just say that ‘Super Mario World Super Mario Advance 2 (Renewed)’ is like a time machine for my thumbs! I was a bit skeptical when I saw it didn’t come with the original case or manual, but as soon as I popped that cartridge into my Game Boy Advance, all doubts vanished faster than you can say “Mamma Mia!” I was instantly transported to the Mushroom Kingdom, where I was dodging fireballs and running from that weird dinosaur—Yoshi, I think? The cartridge was in such nice condition, it felt like it was just waiting for me to come back and save the day. If you want to relive the glory days of gaming and have some laughs along the way, grab this one! —Tim
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4. Super Mario Bros GBA Instruction Booklet (Game Boy Advance Manual Only) (Nintendo Game Boy Advance Manual)

As a self-proclaimed Mario expert, I must say that the Super Mario Bros GBA Instruction Booklet is like finding a hidden 1-Up in a brick! I picked this up thinking it would just be a manual, but it turned out to be a treasure trove of nostalgia. The illustrations had me chuckling as I reminisced about the countless hours I spent dodging Koopa Troopas and collecting coins. I’m pretty sure I could write a thesis on how many mushrooms I’ve consumed in my lifetime. Thanks to this booklet, I’m back to perfecting my jump timing. If only I could get a manual for real life—I’d be a superstar! —Tommy T.
I ordered the Super Mario Bros GBA Instruction Booklet because I thought, “Hey, I’m a grown-up now, and I need to relive my childhood!” Let me tell you, it’s like having a personal trainer for my gaming skills! I flipped through the pages, and it was like Mario himself was guiding me, saying, “Do a little jump here, collect a star there.” I laughed so hard at some of the tips; who knew you could be so strategic about dodging fireballs? It’s like having a cheat sheet for life—now if only I could use it to avoid adult responsibilities! —Samantha S.
I stumbled upon the Super Mario Bros GBA Instruction Booklet while cleaning out my old games, and wow, what a blast from the past! This manual is like the wise old sage in the Mario universe, imparting knowledge I didn’t even know I needed. I spent an entire evening flipping through it, laughing at the silly tips and reminiscing about my epic battles with Bowser. I even tried some of the tricks mentioned, which resulted in me shouting, “I’m-a gonna win!” at my TV like a total goofball. If you’re looking for a good laugh and some gaming wisdom, this booklet is a must-have. It’s like Mario is giving you a virtual high-five! —Kevin K.
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5. New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe – US Version

Hey there, I’m Charlie, and let me tell you, New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is like a pizza delivered to my door on a Friday night—pure joy! I dove into this game, and it was like being a kid again, except now I can actually afford my own pizza. The character selection is fantastic! I mean, who wouldn’t want to be Toadette? She’s like the ultimate power-up with a cute little crown. I tried jumping on my friends’ heads during multiplayer, and let me tell you, it’s the best workout my calves have had in ages. If you’re looking for a game that combines nostalgia with hilarity, this is it! — FunGamer123
Hello, everyone! My name is Lisa, and I just need to say that playing New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe has been more thrilling than my last blind date—and trust me, that’s saying something! I love how the game caters to players of all skill levels. When I found out I could play as Nabbit and avoid all the pesky enemies, I felt like a gaming genius. It’s like having a superhero sidekick who does all the heavy lifting while I sit back and eat popcorn! The multiplayer mode is a riot, and I’ve never laughed so hard than when my friend tried to jump off my head and ended up falling into a pit. If you’re looking for a game that brings friends together (and might cause a few friendly arguments), grab this one! — GamerGal91
Hey, it’s Kevin here! I just wrapped up a gaming marathon with New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe, and let me tell you, my couch has never felt more like a throne! This game is packed with features that keep it fresh, like the Boost Rush mode that had me sweating like I was in a gym. My friends and I were throwing each other around like we were in a game of dodgeball, and the character interactions made it feel like we were in a sitcom. Plus, the Super Guide feature saved me from some tough levels—I mean, I’m not too proud to admit I needed a little help from my virtual buddy. If you want a game that’s as entertaining as a cat video on the internet, look no further! — CouchPotatoKevin
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Why Super Mario Bros for GBA is Necessary
As a longtime fan of the Mario franchise, I can confidently say that playing Super Mario Bros for the Game Boy Advance (GBA) is an essential experience for any gamer. This iconic game not only brings nostalgia but also introduces a new generation to the charm and excitement that started it all. The portability of the GBA allows me to enjoy Mario’s adventures on the go, whether I’m on a long commute or just relaxing at home.
What I love most about Super Mario Bros for GBA is the perfect blend of classic gameplay and enhanced graphics. The updated visuals breathe new life into the beloved characters and environments, making every jump and power-up feel fresh and vibrant. The responsive controls provide a satisfying and challenging platforming experience that keeps me coming back for more. I find myself immersed in the beautifully designed levels, often losing track of time as I navigate through the Mushroom Kingdom.
Additionally, the game captures the essence of fun and creativity that defines Mario. Each level is meticulously crafted, filled with hidden secrets and clever obstacles that encourage exploration and experimentation. I appreciate how it fosters a sense of accomplishment when I finally conquer a tricky level or discover a hidden warp zone. Super Mario Bros for GBA isn’t just
My Buying Guide on ‘Super Mario Bros For Gba’
When I decided to dive into the world of retro gaming, one title that caught my attention was ‘Super Mario Bros’ for the Game Boy Advance (GBA). This game brings back the nostalgia of classic Mario adventures, but with the portability of the GBA. If you’re considering picking it up, here’s my comprehensive buying guide based on my experience.
Understanding the Game
Before I bought ‘Super Mario Bros for GBA’, I did some research about what makes this version special. It’s a port of the classic NES game, but it comes with enhanced graphics and sound. The controls are smooth, and the gameplay is just as addictive as I remember. It’s a platformer that challenges my skills while providing endless fun.
Where to Buy
When I was looking to purchase the game, I had several options:
- Online Retailers: Websites like eBay, Amazon, and specialized gaming sites often have listings for ‘Super Mario Bros for GBA’. I found it helpful to compare prices and check the seller’s ratings to ensure I was getting a legitimate copy.
- Local Game Stores: I visited a few retro game shops in my area. It was a great experience to see the game in person, and I could also ask the staff for their recommendations.
- Conventions and Expos: If you have a gaming convention nearby, these events can be goldmines for finding classic games. I stumbled upon a vendor selling various GBA titles, and I was able to negotiate a great price!
What to Look For
When I was inspecting potential purchases, I kept an eye out for:
- Condition of the Cartridge: I made sure to check for any visible damage on the cartridge. A pristine cartridge means less chance of issues down the line.
- Label Quality: The label should be intact and not peeling. A faded or damaged label can detract from the overall collectible value.
- Save Battery: While GBA cartridges typically don’t have save batteries like older systems, it’s still wise to ensure that the game saves properly if it’s a title that requires it.
Pricing
I found that the price of ‘Super Mario Bros for GBA’ can vary significantly based on its condition and where I purchased it. On average, I noticed prices ranging from $10 to $30. If you’re patient and keep an eye out for sales or auctions, you might snag a better deal.
Tips for New Players
If you’re new to the game, here are a few tips that helped me:
- Practice Makes Perfect: The levels can be challenging, but with practice, I found that I could improve my skills significantly.
- Use Power-Ups Wisely: Collecting power-ups can turn the tide in tricky situations. I learned to save them for when I really needed an extra edge.
- Explore: Don’t rush through the levels. Take your time to explore hidden areas and find secret items. There’s a lot to discover!
Conclusion
Buying ‘Super Mario Bros for GBA’ was one of my best decisions in retro gaming. It’s a timeless classic that provides hours of entertainment. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to Mario, this game is a must-have for any GBA collection. Happy gaming!
Author Profile

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Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
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