Super Mario Bros. 5: The Missing Stages

Super Mario Bros. 5: The Missing Stages – A Revived Classic SMB1 ROM Hack

Super Mario Bros. 5: The Missing Stages is a fully rebuilt and updated version of Szemigi’s classic NES hack Super Mario Bros. 3: The Forgotten Worlds. With permission from the original creator, this version recreates all the original levels from scratch using ALXR’s Great SMB Editor and a hex editor, breathing new life into the game while keeping it true to the style of the original Super Mario Bros. and Super Mario Bros. 2j.

A Faithful Yet Polished Update

Every level from the old hack has been meticulously ported — first to SMB2j and then back to SMB1 — ensuring they work seamlessly within the game’s engine. While The Forgotten Worlds featured unique gimmicks like the removal of 2-player mode in favor of the “Luigi power-up” and the introduction of blue enemies, these elements were removed for The Missing Stages to make the experience feel closer to the official SMB series.

The graphics remain unchanged, preserving the iconic NES visuals that players know and love. However, several subtle improvements enhance the game:

Smoother Level Flow: Level layouts are slightly refined for better pacing and challenge.

Title Screen Upgrade: Courtesy of StudsX, the new title screen adds a professional touch.

Cloud Patch Integration: Thanks to Famulator64, the SMB2j cloud patch is included, enriching the backgrounds without altering the classic style.

A New Ghostly Storyline

The game’s plot adds a supernatural twist to the familiar Mario narrative. After the events of the original Super Mario Bros., Bowser was defeated, and peace was restored — or so everyone thought. From beyond the grave, Bowser’s ghost rises, summoning four mysterious worlds filled with danger. Princess Peach is once again kidnapped, this time held hostage in a fortress high in the sky.

Mario and Luigi must face haunting new challenges, battle spectral foes, and traverse dangerous landscapes to confront Bowser’s ghost. The ultimate question: can they banish his spirit and restore peace to the kingdom once and for all?

For Fans of SMB1 & SMB2j Hacks

This hack blends the best of both Super Mario Bros. and Super Mario Bros. 2j, offering level designs that feel authentic to the era while introducing a brand-new adventure. It’s perfect for players who enjoy classic-style ROM hacks that stay close to the original gameplay while adding a fresh storyline.

Tags for SMB ROM Hacks:

#SuperMarioBros5 #MissingStages #MarioROMHack #RetroGaming #NESMod #SMB1Hack #SuperMarioHack #FanMadeMario #ClassicMario #SMB2jHack #BowserGhost #MarioAdventure #PrincessPeachRescue #8bitMario #NESPlatformer