Super Mario Beer

This time we talk classic!

A timeless game paired with a classic and equally timeless beer style. Start a conversation about video games with someone who doesn't look like a gamer, ask them if they know anything about games.  Try and draw a simple NES controller. What do you think is the first thing that comes to mind for most people?

Super Mario Bros. on the NES! This game defines classic Nintendo. Lots of people also remember Duck Hunt because they came in pairs and was a nice diversion. Even if the person you're talking to doesn't  like video games, they'll start talking about the old games they played  and how much fun they had back then. Try it you'll see. I work at a bar and often wear a NES controller belt buckle and it always surprises me how much people start talking about games because of that.

Let's take a trip down memory lane and take a nice pint of beer!

I don't think that I really need to go into details about Mario, everybody knows him. The game defined 8-bit gaming and most definitely became the best model for platformers. With its tight controls, Mario went exactly where you wanted him to go and could stop on the smallest  of ledge if you wanted. The graphics are still enjoyable to look at thanks to all the colors and diversity in the environments.

The story was simple and never got in the way of the gameplay. It never was about why you wanted to get the princess back but how you were doing it. The level design and controls are the star of Super Mario Bros. With its remarkable difficulty curve, the game gave the player a great sense of accomplishment. How did you felt when you beat the first Bowser or when you found the warp zone? Speaking of which, this was my first encounter with a secret or an easter egg! It was amazing to skip a level, even more, you could get another one and go almost straight to the last world. It is truly an exceptional game.

I'm sure you already know all of this so let's get to the beer now : St-Ambroise Pale Ale!

How awesome is that?!

Again, it's a Québec brewery from Montréal but it's a pretty common style so you could find a good one pretty easily. I went with the St-Ambroise because I think they got the style really well. This is a simple yet really satisfying pale ale. It comes with a nice color and sweet hops and floral scent. It's very refreshing and has a good drinkability. That's why it fits so well with Mario! You won't get bored by the taste, you can drink and play a lot on one sitting without the need to change them and as soon as you try one or the other, you know it's a classic. Like the game, this pale ale is one that you'll know you can come back to anytime.

If you're starring at your game collection wondering what to play with your friend, you know that a session of Mario is always fun. Not sure what to drink? St-Ambroise Pale Ale is always a safe bet.

Now just for shits and giggles, stick Super Mario in your NES and try to get as far as possible with your first life. You can take the warps if you want. One life only...

Have fun, cheers!