The arcade version is significantly tougher. It features more enemies, fewer power-ups, and smaller platforms.
The primary difference between the Arcade Archives SUPER MARIO BROS. and the standard version found on the Nintendo Switch eShop (via Nintendo Switch Online) is that the arcade version is significantly more difficult and features different level layouts Key Comparison: Arcade vs. NES Version Arcade Archives (VS. SMB) NES Version (Standard eShop) Difficulty ; designed to "gobble coins". ; the classic experience. Level Content Includes stages from the Japanese Lost Levels The original 32 stages of the 1985 release. Warp Zones Restricted; can only warp up to World 6. Skip to World 8 via hidden pipes. Fewer hidden 1-ups and mushrooms. Standard power-up distribution. Different color palettes (e.g., yellowish Fire Mario). Original NES 8-bit color palette. Modern Features High score modes, Caravan mode, and save states. Rewind feature and save states (via NSO). Major Differences in Arcade Archives arcade archives vs super mario bros nspeshop work
A "Game Over" sends you back to the start of the current world (e.g., 6-1) rather than the specific level you were on. The arcade version is significantly tougher