Top 5 Power-ups in Super Mario Bros. 3
The Best Power-ups in the Iconic Super Mario Bros. 3
Oct 20, 2009
At the time of its release, Super Mario Bros. 3 featured more power-ups than any other Mario game. While many of these power-ups have made their way into modern Mario-themed titles in some way, shape, or form, others remain exclusive to the popular NES platformer. Here is a list of the top five special power-ups Mario could reap in Super Mario Bros. 3.
P-Wing
Probably one of the cheapest power-ups in any Mario game, the P-Wing turns Mario into Raccoon Mario. In this form, he can use his tail in combat and take to the skies. Unlike the Super Leaf, the P-Wing grants Mario the ability to fly without having to sprint first.
This power-up has often been used to fly across the more difficult levels. As cheap as that may sound, it makes the P-Wing one of the most useful, most revered power-ups in the game. The only downside to the P-Wing is that its infinite aerial abilities only last for one level.
Hammer Suit
The Hammer Bros. have always been some of the peskiest foes in the Mario franchise. Well, the Hammer Suit lets Mario turn into Hammer Mario, a Hammer Bros. clone of sorts. As Hammer Mario, the titular hero can throw an endless supply of hammers at enemies. Not even Bowser is safe from the effects this power-up has on Mario.
Another useful trait of the Hammer Suit is that it grants Mario resistance against flames when ducking. Unfortunately, Hammer Mario can’t slide down slopes and hills. Also, any hammers thrown go upward instead of forward like the fireballs. However, these are just minor setbacks to an otherwise highly impressive power-up.
Fire Suit
A classic power-up that has even made its way to Mario’s latest platforming adventure, the Fire Flower is a truly iconic and memorable item. Fire Mario has the ability to throw fireballs at his enemies. These fireballs can defeat most foes and are even useful when taking on the evil Bowser.
Kuribo’s Shoe
The rarest of all power-ups in the Mario franchise, Kuribo’s Shoe has only appeared in one level in the entire history of Super Mario. Found in Level 5-3 of Sky Land, Kuribo’s Shoe cannot be found in treasure chests or ? Blocks. In order for Mario to use Kuribo’s Shoe, he must defeat a Goomba that is utilizing the item.
While in Kuribo’s Shoe, Mario traverses the stage by hopping. This power-up allows Mario to defeat any enemy simply by stomping on it. This includes Piranha Plants and Spinies. Munchers cannot be defeated, but Kuribo Mario can hop across them without taking damage. Despite making this sole appearance, Kuribo’s Shoe has always been considered one of the most popular power-ups in the Mario series.
Tanooki Suit
The Tanooki Suit is a major upgrade from the Super Leaf. While that power-up gives Mario a raccoon tail and ears, the Tanooki Suit gives him an entire raccoon get-up. The differences between the two items aren’t merely aesthetic, however. Tanooki Mario has the ability to fly and descend slowly much like Raccoon Mario, but that’s not all.
While wearing the Tanooki Suit, Mario can turn into a statue. In this form, he cannot take damage. Also, if triggered in mid-air, Mario will slam down on the ground much like a Thwomp. The statue form doesn’t last forever, though, so Mario must be quick about using it to avoid enemy attacks. Given its offensive, defensive, and aerial attributes, the Tanooki Suit proves to be the top power-up in Super Mario Bros. 3.
The Five Best Power-ups in Super Mario Bros. 3
While each item in Super Mario Bros. 3 serves its purpose and offers unique abilities, these five are by far the most impressive of the bunch. Each power-up deserves recognition, no doubt, but the P-Wing, Hammer Suit, Fire Suit, Kuribo’s Shoe, and Tanooki Suit all stand out as the top five power-ups in Super Mario Bros. 3.
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