This set comes with 24 half-hour episodes spaced out over four discs from the 1989 season. It’s light on extras. The coolest of the slim pickings is the insightful interview with Albano. I never knew the show was such a ratings winner. Each episode includes the original bumpers as well as the preview for The Legend of Zelda cartoon that would air on Fridays in TSMBSS time slot. There used to be videos with popular music played during the show that weren’t included. I’m assuming they couldn’t get or wouldn’t pay for the rights. A lot of media outlets charge by the second, ouch! This deletion doesn’t take away from the enjoyment of TSMBSS in the slightest.
The audio is crisp and clear across the set. The video on the other hand left much to be desired. I originally watched the episodes on my computer which has an HD monitor. I could see every little imperfection in the print. I decided to test the discs on an SDTV and found that the video quality improved dramatically. Perhaps it didn’t improve per se, but it looked better for sure. Who says HD is everything? Regardless of monitor type I wish they had cleaned things up.
Mario is over 20 years old. You generally love him or hate him by now. This probably won’t convert anyone to the “church of Mario” but I don’t think it’s meant to. If you are a Mario fan (you know who you are) and you’re still on the fence about purchasing this set let me be the hand that pushes you over. It’s relatively cheap for the entertainment value it provides and is a great way to get excited about the upcoming original 2D title New Super Mario Bros. for the Nintendo DS. What a great time to be a Super Mario Bros. fan!
Article comments
1 - Dynamo of Eternia
I have a question about this set. Are the "Friday" episodes with the live action Mario segments and Zelda cartoons included on this?
I haven't bought this set yet or that other set that has the complete Legend of Zelda series. But, if the Zeldas are going to be included on these Mario sets anyway, then I probably won't pick that set up.
I almost picked this up over the weekend but passed it up. I may wait until I get paid again this friday and give it a whirl.
... Do The Mario!!!
2 - Rob F
Hey Dynamo, this set only includes The Super Mario Bros. Super Show episodes. There are Zelda previews, NOT episodes. Hope this helps!
3 - Matt C
I have a site all about mario! Anyway, It is funny at times (in the DVD) and I recommend it.