Super Mario Advance 4: Super Mario Bros. 3 e-Reader Levels Confirmed for Japanese Virtual Console

Nintendo has announced that the upcoming Japanese Virtual Console release of Super Mario Advance 4: Super Mario Bros.

3 will support all e-Reader card levels from the original Game Boy Advance title.

This integration marks a notable moment for fans and game historians, as it brings once hard-to-access content directly to modern Nintendo hardware through the Virtual Console platform. Originally launched for the Game Boy Advance in 2003, Super Mario Advance 4: Super Mario Bros.

3 was well-received for its faithful adaptation and enhancement of the classic NES platformer.

However, many players missed out on the additional levels only accessible via the e-Reader accessory.

The e-Reader, a unique add-on released in 2001, allowed users to scan specially encoded cards to unlock bonus stages and features in compatible games.

While the concept was ahead of its time—offering content akin to downloadable content (DLC) before the term became mainstream—it suffered from limited adoption and regional availability, with many e-Reader functions never released outside Japan. For the Japanese Virtual Console version, Nintendo has confirmed that every stage previously offered as e-Reader bonus content will now be fully playable from the start via the data select screen.

This decision effectively removes the hardware and geographical barriers that previously prevented many Mario fans from experiencing all the content the title has to offer. In a statement shared on the official Japanese Nintendo website, Nintendo clarified, "Players will be able to enjoy all additional levels originally available from e-Reader cards without the need for peripherals or separate purchases." This release has generated excitement among fans and preservationists alike, as Super Mario Advance 4 marks the first time these exclusive e-Reader stages have been made widely accessible outside their original format.

While this update is currently confirmed for the Japanese Virtual Console, it remains unannounced for international versions, leaving North American and European audiences hopeful for similar treatment in future releases on platforms such as the Nintendo Switch or through the eShop. With Super Mario Advance 4: Super Mario Bros.

3 continuing to find new audiences on modern systems, Nintendo’s effort to preserve and re-release its legacy content demonstrates the company’s commitment to maintaining historic gameplay experiences.

As the industry looks to modern platforms for delivering retro titles, the inclusion of e-Reader content may signal a growing trend in making once-exclusive features available to a broader audience.

Nintendo Super Mario Advance 4 Super Mario Bros. 3 e-Reader Game Boy Advance Virtual Console Nintendo Switch