If there is one franchise in gaming known to almost everyone on the planet, it's Super Mario Bros. On May 23, the next game in Nintendo's flagship series, Super Mario Galaxy 2, will launch on the Wii, adding another chapter to the Italian plumber's long and prolific story. In Game Genealogy: Super Mario Bros., we decided to reminisce about the history of the brothers Mario, and take a closer look at the Mushroom Kingdom.

Part Three of Game Genealogy: Super Mario Bros. covers the franchise's years on the Nintendo 64 and Gamecube, which were surprisingly lacking in Mario platformers. They certainly weren't lacking in 3D graphics and water-spraying jetpacks, though. Check back later in the week for Part Four, the conclusion, which should bring things up to date.

Game Genealogy is a new Gamervision series that chronicles a video game franchise’s history interspersed with commentary from our own staff members. Feel free to join in the discussion in the comments section.

Written By: Sarah LeBoeuf
Shot By: Paul Ritchey
Edited By: Paul Ritchey
Voiceover By: Chris Buek
Additional Assistance: Ricky Nguyen