This was likely one of the most anticipated games of its time, and definitely one of the best selling games.  It was definitely the most marketed, having made an appearance in the 90 minute Nintendo commercial The Wizard starring Fred Savage.  Every kid in the country was promised a glimpse of Super Mario 3 and the amazing Nintendo Power Glove if they begged their parents to see this film, and the idea was a success.

I believe this is footage of protests from bored Super Mario 2 players.