It forever changed: 2D platforming mechanics. All this talk of narrative plot devices and immersion-breaking self-realisations - you can never forget the title that still to this day is one of the best examples of 2D platforming available, as well as showcasing some of the most influential gameplay mechanics seen in video games. It's a question for the ages whether or not Mario should stay on a 2D plain, but when the graphics are as colourful as they are here and the core feel of jumping across a string of platforms is as tight as it is, it really doesn't matter. Everyone under the sun knows of Mario, Bowser and Princess Peach's forays into castles across the land, and everything from Rayman: Legends to Super Meat Boy owes everything to Nintendo's flagship plumber who's still going just as strong today.
