Do you remember the thrill of sprinting through pixelated landscapes, collecting golden coins, and rescuing Princess Peach from Bowser’s fiery lair? For many of us, Super Mario Bros wasn’t just a game it was a childhood ritual.
Recently, I stumbled upon something that made me feel like I was holding that magic again but this time, in the palm of my hand. The Delta emulator brought Super Mario Bros back to life on my iPhone, turning everyday moments like waiting for the bus or sipping coffee into nostalgic adventures.
In this article, I’ll walk you through everything about the Super Mario Bros emulator in 2025 how it works, why it’s special, and how you can play the classic NES masterpiece on your iPhone or Android device today.
Get ready to rediscover the joy of jumping, dodging, and collecting coins anytime, anywhere.
The Nostalgia of Super Mario Bros
There’s something timeless about Super Mario Bros. It’s one of those rare games that never fades, no matter how advanced modern gaming gets.
When I fired up Super Mario Bros again after years, the moment I heard that familiar “ding!” of a collected coin, I was instantly transported back to my childhood living room sitting cross-legged in front of a chunky TV, controller wire tangled like spaghetti.
The thrill of timing your jumps just right, discovering secret pipes, and hearing the flagpole music at the end of each level it’s all unforgettable.
In 2025, that nostalgic rush isn’t lost. Tools like the Delta emulator make it possible to relive those moments effortlessly, especially on modern devices like the iPhone 15 or iPhone 14. The experience feels familiar yet fresh like the old days, but smoother, brighter, and portable.
What Is a Super Mario Bros Emulator?
In simple terms, a Super Mario Bros emulator is an app or program that lets you play the classic NES version of Super Mario Bros on modern hardware your smartphone, tablet, or PC.
It works by mimicking the original Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) environment, allowing ROM files (the digital versions of game cartridges) to run as if you were playing on an actual console.
Supported Platforms (2025):
- iPhone/iPad (iOS 17 & 18) – via Delta and other AltStore-compatible apps.
- Android (Android 13–15) – using emulators like NES.emu or RetroArch.
- Windows/macOS/Linux – with advanced tools like Mesen or RetroArch.
These emulators even add features the NES never had, like save states, custom controls, HD graphics, and cloud saves, giving players both nostalgia and modern convenience.
Meet the Delta Emulator
If you’ve never tried Delta, it’s the crown jewel of iOS emulation in 2025 and easily one of the best ways to play Super Mario Bros.
Developed by Riley Testut, Delta is designed to emulate multiple Nintendo systems NES, SNES, N64, Game Boy, and GBA all from a single elegant interface.
What makes it special isn’t just compatibility, but how easy it feels. Within a few taps, you can access an entire library of classics like Super Mario Bros, Super Mario World, and Super Mario Advance.
Key Features of Delta
- Simple and friendly interface for beginners
- Supports iCloud and Dropbox sync for save files
- Built-in controller layout and customization
- Compatible with iOS 17 and iOS 18 devices
- Connects seamlessly with Bluetooth controllers
Delta truly feels like a magical portal to the past, allowing iPhone users to enjoy the golden age of gaming without the frustration of outdated hardware.
How I Installed the Delta Emulator on My iPhone
When I decided to install Delta on my iPhone 14, I used the official and safest route: AltStore PAL.
Here’s how you can do the same:
- Download AltStore PAL – Visit altstore.io on your computer and follow the installation guide.
- Install Delta – Once AltStore is ready, open it on your iPhone and tap to install Delta.
- Add Your Game ROM – You’ll need a legally obtained ROM of Super Mario Bros (preferably backed up from your own cartridge).
- Import and Play – Open Delta → tap the “+” → select your ROM file → and start playing!
Within minutes, I was back in World 1-1 — that familiar skyline, the green pipes, the jumping Goombas — everything just as I remembered, but now on my phone.
If you’re new to AltStore, make sure to follow their official guide or community tutorials to avoid errors. It’s simple once you’ve done it once.
Exploring the Super Mario Bros Collection on Delta
Once Delta is installed, the fun truly begins. The emulator opens up access to a whole library of Super Mario Bros titles not just the original NES version.
You can dive into:
- Super Mario Bros (NES) – The timeless original.
- Super Mario Bros: The Lost Levels – The challenging Japan-only sequel.
- Super Mario World (SNES) – A colorful evolution of the series.
- Super Mario Advance series (GBA) – Portable reimaginings of the classics.
And the best part? You don’t need any extra hardware or special subscriptions. Delta’s design makes navigation feel like stepping into a retro arcade that fits right in your pocket.
The Portability Advantage
One of the best things about the Super Mario Bros emulator is how it transforms your smartphone into a pocket-sized console.
Gone are the days of carrying bulky controllers and cartridges. Whether you’re on a bus, at a café, or relaxing in a park, you can jump into Super Mario Bros instantly.
Personally, I’ve found it comforting when I’m stressed or waiting somewhere, opening Delta and running through a few levels feels like a mini-escape. The combination of nostalgia and portability is simply unbeatable.
So if you’ve got an iPhone or Android device, grab your emulator and jump into Mario’s world it’s gaming freedom at its best.
Other Great Super Mario Bros Emulators in 2025
While Delta shines on iOS, there are other excellent options across platforms that deserve attention:
RetroArch (Windows / macOS / Android / iOS)
An open-source emulator powerhouse. It supports almost every retro console, including NES. Perfect for players who want advanced features like shaders and online multiplayer.
Pros: Cross-platform, customizable, supports multiple consoles.
Cons: Interface can be overwhelming for beginners.
Mesen (Windows / Linux / macOS)
A favorite among purists, Mesen is known for perfect NES emulation and accuracy.
Pros: Near-perfect sound and visuals, rewind support.
Cons: Desktop-only.
NES.emu (Android 15+)
A reliable, lightweight emulator for Android with smooth performance and controller support.
Pros: Stable and mobile-friendly.
Cons: Basic interface design.
Is It Legal to Play Super Mario Bros on an Emulator?
Let’s clear the air emulators are legal, but downloading copyrighted ROMs isn’t.
You’re completely safe to use emulators like Delta, RetroArch, or Mesen. However, you should only play ROMs that you own physically or have dumped yourself from original cartridges.
This ensures you’re enjoying the classics responsibly while respecting the developers who made them timeless.
Tips for the Best Emulator Experience
To make your Super Mario Bros sessions smoother and more enjoyable:
- Use a Bluetooth Controller: It makes gameplay feel authentic.
- Enable Save States: Pause anywhere even mid-boss fight.
- Try Shaders: Add a retro CRT effect or HD polish.
- Back Up Your Saves: Cloud sync through Delta keeps progress safe.
- Join Online Communities: Share tips or gameplay clips on Reddit or Discord the retro gaming community is still thriving in 2025!
Sharing the Joy with the Community
The best part of rediscovering Super Mario Bros through emulation is sharing that joy with others.
Online communities on Reddit, Quora, and Discord are filled with fans trading stories, screenshots, and mods. If you’ve got friends who loved the game growing up, introduce them to Delta or RetroArch and make new memories together.
After all, gaming isn’t just about playing it’s about connecting.
Final Thoughts
From dusty NES cartridges to sleek iPhone screens, Super Mario Bros continues to bridge generations. The Super Mario Bros Emulator 2025 isn’t just a tool it’s a time machine that keeps the joy of retro gaming alive.
Whether you’re reliving old memories or discovering Mario for the first time, emulators like Delta make it easier than ever to carry that magic with you.
So fire up your emulator, load that classic tune, and let’s-a go! The Mushroom Kingdom is waiting this time, right in your pocket.