Super Angelo

Super Angelo is a side-scrolling platform game created by Dutch programmer Mike Wiering and published by Wiering Software for MS-DOS in 1997. Distributed as shareware, it was based on technology previously used for Wiering's unofficial DOS adaptation of Super Mario Bros. The game closely follows the design conventions of Nintendo's platform series, but replaces its characters and setting with an original fantasy-themed adventure. Updated shareware and registered editions were released in subsequent years, which is why some databases list 2001 as the release date.

The story takes place on a group of islands whose castles have been occupied by three dragons. The creatures have also kidnapped a princess, prompting the brave Angelo to set out on a journey to defeat them and rescue her. His adventure leads through a succession of outdoor stages and castles, with each of the three main areas culminating in a confrontation with a dragon.

Gameplay is strongly modelled on Super Mario Bros. Angelo runs and jumps through horizontally scrolling levels, avoids pits and other hazards, collects coins and defeats enemies by landing on them. Certain bonuses transform him into the more powerful Super Angelo, allowing him to withstand additional damage. Further power-ups give him the ability to fire projectiles or increase his movement speed, while collecting enough coins grants an additional life.

The game was notable for its smooth scrolling and responsive controls, particularly considering its small size and modest hardware requirements. Its colourful VGA graphics use a resolution of 320 × 200 pixels, and the game can be controlled using either the keyboard or a joystick. However, the close resemblance to Super Mario Bros. extends beyond its basic mechanics to elements of its level structure, enemies and power-up system, leaving little doubt about its principal inspiration.

Super Angelo offers a comparatively short and straightforward campaign, but its accessible controls and technically polished presentation made it one of the more accomplished independent Mario-style platform games available for DOS. Its limited originality is balanced by competent execution, steadily increasing difficulty and the inclusion of a complete adventure in the registered version. The game is also representative of the shareware era, when individual programmers could distribute compact yet fully functional games directly to PC users.