Super Mario Bros 2 (USA) (Rev 1)

Super Mario Bros. 2 (USA) (Rev 1) offers a radically different experience compared to previous Mario games, largely because it is a modified version of the Japanese game "Doki Doki Panic." The most distinctive feature of the game is the ability to choose one of four main characters at the start of each stage: Mario, Luigi, Toad, and Princess Peach. Each character possesses unique abilities that significantly impact the gameplay.

Mario is a balanced character with no particular strengths or weaknesses. Luigi can jump higher and hover slightly in the air, allowing him to reach challenging areas. Toad is the fastest at pulling and throwing objects, and also digs the fastest. Finally, Princess Peach can float in the air for a significant duration after jumping, enabling her to cross large gaps or reach distant platforms.

The core gameplay of Super Mario Bros. 2 revolves around picking up objects or enemies from the ground and throwing them at other enemies to defeat them. Players cannot simply stomp on enemies as in traditional Mario games. Items that can be pulled include vegetables (radishes), keys, bombs, and even enemies themselves. The game also introduces the "Sub-space" mechanic – a parallel world accessible by finding and throwing a magic potion, which creates a door. In Sub-space, players can find coins to use at a slot machine after each stage, or find health-extending mushrooms.

Obstacles and enemies in Super Mario Bros. 2 are also very diverse and unique, from Birdo (an egg-spitting enemy) to Shy Guy, Snifit, and Bob-omb. The objective of each stage is to find and defeat the area's boss or find a key to unlock the door to the next stage. The game features a total of seven worlds, each culminating in a boss battle. The final boss of the game is Wart, a large frog sensitive to vegetables. With its innovative gameplay and character diversity, Super Mario Bros. 2 has become an icon and an indispensable part of Mario game history.