Contra vs Super Mario Bros.
Super Mario Bros. leads with 81% of votes
Latest odds: Super Mario Bros. - 91%, Contra - 9%
Contra = High-octane, cooperative shooter
Super Mario Bros. = Iconic, genre-defining platformer
See full Original NES Game rankings →Pick Your Favorite
VS
Your GOAT List
The Real Debate
Contra unleashes relentless action and a barrage of bullets, where teamwork and precise reflexes determine survival, contrasting sharply with the whimsical, solo quest of Super Mario Bros., whose colorful worlds and puzzles have a different, gentler demand on the player. As fans of these iconic NES classics clash in debates, the emotional investment intensifies; Contra's high-stakes, explosive chaos meets Mario’s calculated and serene journey through the Mushroom Kingdom. Both games carved their unique legacies in the world of video gaming, but the essence of their appeal is as different as night and day. Whose side are you on in this battle of high-octane action versus strategic precision?
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Criteria | Edge | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Gameplay Innovation | Super Mario Bros. | Super Mario Bros. introduced and perfected the side-scrolling platformer, setting a standard for future games. |
| Graphics and Design | Super Mario Bros. | Super Mario Bros. presented a more vibrant and varied visual experience that defined the visual storytelling in games. |
| Soundtrack Quality | Super Mario Bros. | The soundtrack of Super Mario Bros., with its iconic themes, is more universally recognized and has had a lasting influence. |
| Cultural Impact | Super Mario Bros. | Super Mario Bros.'s massive influence on gaming and pop culture is unparalleled, making it a household name globally. |
🔥 Fan Takes
How Fans Are Voting
Latest battle odds:
Super Mario Bros.: 91%
Contra: 9%
Overall battle results:
Overall fans prefer Super Mario Bros. over Contra when it comes to the greatest Original NES Games of all time. In head-to-head matchups, fans pick Super Mario Bros. 81.8% of the time over Contra.
Across all battles:
Super Mario Bros. win rate: 83.2%
Contra win rate: 34.8%
Fan FAQs
Why is the Super Mario Bros. vs. Contra matchup such a big deal in the Greatest Original NES Games of All Time league?
This matchup is epic because it pits Mario's platforming charm against Contra's hardcore shooting action. Fans are torn between the accessibility and cultural icon of Mario and the intense, skill-based appeal of Contra.
What makes Contra still popular among fans?
Contra holds a special place for fans who love a challenge. Its famous 'Konami code' and the co-op gameplay bring back memories of endless afternoons with friends. It's the go-to for hardcore retro gamers.
Why is Super Mario Bros. winning by so much?
Super Mario Bros. is just crushing it because it's the nostalgia powerhouse. Everyone remembers jumping on Goombas and rescuing Princess Peach! Its massive cultural impact and the timeless gameplay keep it way ahead in fan votes.