Let's Play a Game: "New Super Mario Bros."

Episode 1 of Let's Play a Game w/ Early Gates.
For our first gaming video let's play "New Super Mario Bros." which was released in 2006 for the Nintendo DS !

"New Super Mario Bros." for the Nintendo DS, released in 2006, marked a significant return to the classic 2D side-scrolling formula of the Mario series after a long focus on 3D gameplay. This game was the first original 2D Mario since "Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins" in 1992, combining traditional gameplay with new elements that utilized the DS's capabilities.

The game features eight worlds filled with more than 80 levels, introducing new power-ups like the Mega Mushroom, which enlarges Mario to crush enemies and obstacles, and the Mini Mushroom, shrinking him for access to narrow spaces. It also brought back the classic Super Mushroom and Fire Flower, with mechanics like wall-jumping borrowed from "Super Mario 64."

"New Super Mario Bros." was praised for its vibrant graphics, which used 3D models in a 2D environment, creating a visually appealing "2.5D" effect. The soundtrack included both new compositions and nostalgic tunes from previous Mario games. Additionally, the game offered multiplayer modes, including a competitive Mario vs. Luigi mode and various touch-screen minigames, enhancing replayability.

Upon release, it became the best-selling game for the DS, with sales exceeding 30 million copies, revitalizing interest in 2D platformers and setting the stage for subsequent "New Super Mario Bros." titles on other platforms. The game was lauded for its blend of nostalgia with fresh gameplay innovations, making it a beloved entry in the Mario franchise.