Secret Maryo Chronicles is a free, open source side scrolling platform game for PC that closely resembles the classic Super Mario World style of gameplay. Often described as one of the most faithful Mario like games available for Windows, it features familiar mechanics such as power up boxes, enemy stomping, collectibles, checkpoints, and level based progression. While clearly inspired by Nintendo’s Super Mario series, it is an independent project with original assets and code.
Secret Maryo Chronicles | Mario Style Platformer for PC
Secret Maryo Chronicles, commonly abbreviated as SMC, delivers a traditional 2D platforming experience that will feel instantly familiar to fans of classic console era Mario games. Players guide Maryo through colorful worlds filled with enemies, obstacles, secret areas, and power ups, all presented in a smooth side scrolling format designed for keyboard or gamepad play.
Beyond simply playing the included campaign, SMC also ships with a built in level editor that can be activated directly in game using the F8 key. This editor allows players to design custom stages by placing enemies, power ups, terrain elements, background images, and defining player start positions. Created levels can be saved, shared, and replayed, greatly extending replay value.
The game is written in C++ and uses OpenGL for graphics rendering. It is released under the GNU General Public License version 3, making it fully open source and free to modify or redistribute.
Gameplay and Core Features
Secret Maryo Chronicles focuses on classic arcade platforming with modern conveniences and community driven content:
- Classic Side Scrolling Gameplay: Jump, run, and pounce on enemies across multiple themed worlds, inspired by Super Mario World style mechanics.
- Power Ups and Items: Collect power up boxes and bonuses that enhance abilities and help overcome tougher enemies.
- Built In Level Editor: Create and edit custom levels directly inside the game without external tools.
- Save and Load Support: Progress can be saved and resumed, making it suitable for both short sessions and extended play.
- Open Source Game: Fully open source under GPL v3, allowing community contributions and transparency.
- Portable Friendly: Can be run from a USB drive, making it ideal for portable gaming setups.
- Cross Platform Origins: Versions exist for Windows, Linux, and other platforms, though this release focuses on Windows PC.
While development activity has slowed in recent years, the game remains stable, playable, and enjoyable, particularly for fans of retro platform games.
Legal and Originality Notes
Although Secret Maryo Chronicles is heavily inspired by Nintendo’s Super Mario franchise, it is not an official Mario game and has no affiliation with Nintendo. The developers intentionally use original graphics, sounds, and level designs to avoid copyright infringement while preserving the familiar gameplay feel of classic Mario titles.
Additional Specifications and Download
- Project Page: Project Page
- License: Open Source (GNU GPL v3)
- Supported Operating System: Windows PC
- Programming Language: C++
- Graphics Engine: OpenGL
- Editor's Rating: 4 Star
- Download: Download Secret Maryo Chronicles
If you enjoy Secret Maryo Chronicles, you may also want to try Mega Mario, another free and portable Super Mario like game for PC that offers fast paced arcade gameplay and classic visuals.