I am not going to start a discussion about Steam, this topic is not about why I would want or not want Steam on my system.
I will buy the game when I can get a physical copy which I can use on a system that will stay forever offline. Otherwise I will not. Since there seems to be no such version, I will miss out. Too bad.

1. Download Steam Version
2. You can play SMB clicking on the .exe with no need of steam running.
3. Success.

Are you 100% sure that I do not have to register the game with Steam? According to your statement, I would be able to buy the Ultra-edition (i.e. non-download) and play it without ever having to bother with Steam. Is this correct? I will not bother if I have to install Steam or activate the game or something like it.

I thought about buying the Ultra-Edition, but apparently it needs STEAM, too. Is there any version available which does not use Steam or any other online-service? I also want a physical copy of the game, not just a downloaded file.