Mario Bros., developed by Nintendo and co-created by Shigeru Miyamoto and Gunpei Yokoi, marked a significant milestone in the history of video games upon its release in Japan. This game introduced players to the adventures of two Italian plumbers, Mario and Luigi, as they worked together to eliminate creatures from the Mushroom Kingdom. The gameplay involved running and jumping across a series of platforms while defeating enemies such as goombas and koopa troopas. Mario Bros. also introduced the concept of cooperative gameplay, where two players could control Mario and Luigi simultaneously, enriching the gaming experience.

Prior to Mario Bros., video gaming was primarily dominated by arcade games and simple home console experiences. Mario Bros. pushed the boundaries of what home gaming could offer. The technical aspects of the game demonstrated advanced graphics for its time, and the sound effects and music contributed to an immersive experience. Mario Bros. quickly gained popularity in arcades, contributing to the rise of Nintendo as a powerhouse in the gaming industry. Following the game's release in Japan, it made its way to North America and beyond, where it significantly influenced the evolution of platform games.

The success of Mario Bros. was unprecedented, leading to numerous sequels and spin-offs. This franchise not only established Mario as a gaming icon but also set the stage for Nintendo's extensive influence in the video game market. The elements introduced in Mario Bros.—including power-ups, levels, and character designs—became benchmarks for the platformer genre and inspired future game developers worldwide. As a result, Mario has transcended gaming to become a cultural phenomenon, with merchandise, television shows, and films further solidifying his place in popular culture.