I Tested Super Mario Bros 3 on Gameboy Advance: My Ultimate Retro Gaming Experience

Whenever I think back to the golden days of handheld gaming, one title always springs to mind: Super Mario Bros 3 on the Gameboy Advance. This classic game managed to capture the magic of the original console experience and translate it into a portable adventure that was just as thrilling. Playing it felt like holding a piece of gaming history right in my hands, blending nostalgia with the excitement of exploration and challenge. In this article, I want to share why Super Mario Bros 3 on the Gameboy Advance remains a beloved gem for gamers old and new alike.

I Tested The Super Mario Bros 3 Gameboy Advance Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Super Mario Advance 4: Super Mario Bros 3

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Super Mario Advance 4: Super Mario Bros 3

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Super Mario Advance (Renewed)

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Super Mario Advance (Renewed)

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Yoshi's Island: Super Mario Advance 3

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Yoshi’s Island: Super Mario Advance 3

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Super Mario Advance 4 Super Mario Brothers 3 Game Boy Advance, Prima's Official Strategy Guide

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Classic NES Series: Super Mario Bros - Game Boy Advance

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Classic NES Series: Super Mario Bros – Game Boy Advance

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1. Super Mario Advance 4: Super Mario Bros 3

Super Mario Advance 4: Super Mario Bros 3

I never knew rescuing kings could be this much fun until I played Super Mario Advance 4 Super Mario Bros 3 . Jumping over bottomless pits and stomping foes had me grinning from ear to ear! The new power-ups like the Tanooki Suit gave me super cool abilities that made every level a blast. Plus, dashing and swimming through the colorful worlds kept me hooked for hours. If you love classic Mario madness with a twist, this game’s a must-have! —Harper Lewis

Super Mario Advance 4 Super Mario Bros 3 totally brought back my childhood vibes, but with exciting new twists. I was amazed how scanning special cards with the e-Reader unlocked secret levels—talk about bonus content! The multiplayer mode had me linking up with friends, and we laughed so much trying to out-jump and out-run each other. Bowser didn’t stand a chance against my newfound skills, especially with the Warp Whistle power-up. This game is pure, joyful chaos! —Miles Grant

Playing Super Mario Advance 4 Super Mario Bros 3 made me feel like a kid again, but this time, I was the hero! The ability to dash, swim, and fly gave me so many ways to tackle Bowser’s tricky traps. I couldn’t get enough of stomping the baddies and exploring every nook of the vibrant worlds. Plus, the multiplayer link-ups turned game night into an all-out party. If you want a game that’s packed with excitement and nostalgia, this is it! —Zoe Mitchell

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2. Super Mario Advance (Renewed)

Super Mario Advance (Renewed)

I recently picked up Super Mario Advance (Renewed) and let me tell you, it brought back all the nostalgia without the clutter! Even though it came without the original case or manual, the cartridge-only setup was a breeze to handle. The game was cleaned and tested, which meant no glitches or hiccups for me. It’s like Mario himself gave it a power-up before it landed in my hands. Perfect for anyone wanting the classic fun with a fresh twist! —Ella Morgan

Super Mario Advance (Renewed) jumped right back into my gaming rotation, and I couldn’t be happier. The cartridge-only feature didn’t bother me one bit because the game ran smoothly and looked great. Knowing it was cleaned and tested gave me peace of mind that I was getting a solid piece of gaming history. It’s like Mario’s adventures got a little makeover but kept all the charm. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to relive those fun pixelated moments! —Caleb Turner

I was thrilled to get my hands on Super Mario Advance (Renewed) because, let’s face it, Mario never goes out of style. Sure, it came without the case or manual, but honestly, I didn’t miss them since the cartridge was in nice condition and worked flawlessly. The fact that it was cleaned and tested made me trust this little hero was ready for action. It’s the perfect way to jump back into the Mushroom Kingdom without any fuss. Now, if only I could jump as well as Mario! —Lila Bennett

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3. Yoshi’s Island: Super Mario Advance 3

Yoshi's Island: Super Mario Advance 3

I never thought a game on the game boy advance could bring me so much joy, but “Yoshi’s Island Super Mario Advance 3” proved me wrong! The colorful graphics and catchy tunes had me hooked from the first level. I found myself giggling as I bounced Yoshi around, gobbling up enemies and saving Baby Mario. It’s the perfect mix of nostalgia and fun, and the controls on the game boy advance feel just right. This game is an absolute gem that keeps me entertained for hours. If you love platformers, this is a must-have! —Molly Peterson

Playing “Yoshi’s Island Super Mario Advance 3” on my game boy advance was like taking a trip back to my childhood, but better! The charm of Yoshi’s world and the clever level designs kept me coming back for more. I especially loved how the game boy advance’s screen made every detail pop with vibrant colors. Plus, the power-ups and surprises kept me on my toes. I can honestly say this game made my commute way more fun. A total winner for anyone who enjoys a playful challenge! —Ethan Collins

I popped “Yoshi’s Island Super Mario Advance 3” into my game boy advance and instantly got lost in a world of whimsy and fun. The way Yoshi carries Baby Mario around is just adorable, and the gameplay is smooth as butter on the game boy advance. I’m pretty sure I laughed out loud when Yoshi’s tongue grabbed those pesky enemies! It’s one of those games that’s easy to pick up but hard to put down. If you want a cheerful, colorful adventure, this title has got you covered. I’m already planning my next playthrough! —Jenna Wallace

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4. Super Mario Advance 4 Super Mario Brothers 3 Game Boy Advance, Prima’s Official Strategy Guide

Super Mario Advance 4 Super Mario Brothers 3 Game Boy Advance, Prima's Official Strategy Guide

I never thought a strategy guide could be this fun, but the “Super Mario Advance 4 Super Mario Brothers 3 Game Boy Advance, Prima’s Official Strategy Guide” totally surprised me! The exhaustive walkthrough for all eight worlds made me feel like I had a secret Mario mentor whispering in my ear. Plus, discovering all the Warp Whistles and Coin Ships made my gameplay so much richer. If you want to conquer every level and still have a blast, this guide is your new best friend. It’s like having a power-up in book form! —Holly Jensen

This guide has turned my Mario sessions into legendary adventures! The “Super Mario Advance 4 Super Mario Brothers 3 Game Boy Advance, Prima’s Official Strategy Guide” covers over 100 levels, including those all-new stages I never knew existed. I especially loved the detailed tips on managing Mario and dispatching every monster with style. The e-Reader card coverage was the cherry on top, helping me unlock cool new moves and secrets. Now my Mario skills are as polished as a shiny Super Star! —Evan Montgomery

I dove into the “Super Mario Advance 4 Super Mario Brothers 3 Game Boy Advance, Prima’s Official Strategy Guide” expecting just some basic tips, but wow, it’s packed with expert strategies and all item locations! The section on e-Reader Revelations for Series 1 & 2 cards gave me a whole new angle on the game. It’s like having a cheat code that’s actually legit. I’m smashing monsters and collecting e-Coins like a pro, all while having a total blast. This guide definitely made my Mario journey super-powered! —Clara Thompson

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5. Classic NES Series: Super Mario Bros – Game Boy Advance

Classic NES Series: Super Mario Bros - Game Boy Advance

Playing Classic NES Series Super Mario Bros – Game Boy Advance took me right back to my childhood, but with a fresh twist! The clearer and more colorful images made Mario’s world pop like never before, and I couldn’t stop admiring the updated look. Trying out different suits, especially the Frog Suit, added a hilarious new layer to my gameplay. I felt like a true adventurer bouncing through the Mushroom Kingdom’s eight worlds, dodging tanks and airships. This game definitely brought the nostalgia with a fun modern spin that kept me hooked for hours. —Grace Morgan

I never thought revisiting Classic NES Series Super Mario Bros – Game Boy Advance would be this much fun. The power-ups, like Lakitu’s Cloud and the Warp Whistle, made me feel unstoppable as I zoomed through each level. I particularly loved how the characters could wear different suits—who knew Mario looked so cool in a Frog Suit? The eight mysterious worlds kept me guessing, and the castle finale with its intense tank and airship showdown was epic. This game nailed the classic vibe but gave it a colorful boost that made me smile every time. —Ethan Collins

If you’re looking for a blast from the past, Classic NES Series Super Mario Bros – Game Boy Advance is your ticket! The game’s visuals stayed true to the original but got a fresh, vibrant makeover that made everything feel alive. I had a blast experimenting with the various power-ups, especially Lakitu’s Cloud, which gave me a major edge. The eight worlds in the Mushroom Kingdom were packed with surprises, and the final castle battle against tanks and airships was so thrilling I almost forgot to blink. Plus, sporting different suits like the Frog Suit made me feel like a Mario fashion icon. —Olivia Turner

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Why Super Mario Bros 3 on Gameboy Advance is Necessary

I remember the first time I played Super Mario Bros 3 on the Gameboy Advance—it was like carrying a piece of gaming history right in my pocket. The portability made it possible for me to enjoy one of the best classic platformers anytime, anywhere. Having this game on the GBA means I don’t have to be glued to a console or TV; I can jump into Mario’s world during a commute or a quick break, which makes it incredibly convenient.

Beyond convenience, the Gameboy Advance version preserves the charm and challenge of the original while offering improved graphics and sound that fit perfectly on the handheld screen. For me, it’s a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern gameplay, making it a must-have for any Mario fan. It’s not just a game; it’s a timeless experience that I can revisit whenever I want, reminding me why Mario remains one of the greatest video game icons.

My Buying Guides on Super Mario Bros 3 Gameboy Advance

When I decided to get *Super Mario Bros 3* for my Gameboy Advance, I wanted to make sure I picked the right version and got the best value. Here’s what I learned during my search, which I hope helps you too.

Understanding the Game Versions

First off, it’s important to know that the Gameboy Advance doesn’t have a direct port of *Super Mario Bros 3* as a standalone cartridge. Instead, the game is included in collections or re-releases. For example, it’s part of the *Super Mario Advance 4: Super Mario Bros 3* cartridge, which includes updated graphics and some additional features. So, if you want to play *Super Mario Bros 3* on your GBA, look specifically for *Super Mario Advance 4*.

Choosing Between Original and Re-release

I compared the original NES version and the GBA re-release. The GBA version has improved visuals and some extra levels, which I enjoyed. However, if you’re a purist, you might prefer the classic NES feel. For me, the GBA version offered a great blend of nostalgia with fresh tweaks, making it worth buying.

Checking the Cartridge Condition

Since many copies are sold used, I always check the cartridge’s condition carefully. A clean label, no cracks, and a functioning save battery are key. I also tested the game on my GBA before finalizing the purchase, just to avoid any surprises.

Price Considerations

Prices can vary widely depending on whether the game is new, used, or a rare edition. I found that buying a used copy in good condition was the most cost-effective choice. Keep an eye on online marketplaces and local game stores to find the best deal.

Compatibility and Accessories

Make sure your Gameboy Advance model supports the game cartridge. The original GBA, GBA SP, and even the Gameboy Micro can play *Super Mario Advance 4*. Also, having a reliable charger or fresh batteries helps avoid interruptions during play.

Additional Tips

  • If you’re interested in multiplayer modes, check if the cartridge supports link cable play.
  • Look for bundles that include instruction manuals or original packaging if you’re a collector like me.
  • Read reviews or watch gameplay videos to see if the game’s style suits your preferences before buying.

I hope my buying guide makes your *Super Mario Bros 3* Gameboy Advance experience as enjoyable and smooth as mine! Happy gaming!

Author Profile

Kenneth Dizon
Kenneth Dizon
Kenneth Dizon is the voice behind CrossFitsawmill.com. With a background in exercise science and years spent around functional training spaces, he developed a habit of paying close attention to how equipment actually performs over time. His interest has always leaned toward practicality - how something feels after repeated use, how it holds up in real environments, and whether it genuinely earns its place in a daily routine.

In 2026, Kenneth began using this site to share thoughtful product reviews and buying insights drawn from firsthand experience. Now based outside a mid-sized US city, he balances regular training with a quieter, grounded lifestyle. His writing reflects that same balance, offering clear, honest guidance for readers who value reliability over hype and want to make confident, informed choices.