The screen flickers with colorful tiles and mushrooms. Green pipes stretch into the air like twisted metal. I press A to jump, sending my character soaring over a Goomba. A power-up floats by; I grab it, turning red and gaining extra lives. Five more steps forward and a Koopa Troopa blocks the way. I crouch low, then pounce, defeating him with a thud. The screen blinks green, signaling level completion. I can’t help but grin as I watch Mario float to the next platform, ready for the challenge ahead.