When it comes to the most famous video games, few can rival the iconic status of Mario. Since his introduction to the whimsical Mushroom Kingdom in 1985, Mario has become a beloved character across generations, leading players on countless fantastical adventures.
With so many titles under his belt, it’s hard to narrow down the pick of the litter. Let’s try anyway by taking a stroll down memory lane and diving into some of the best Mario games ever. Buckle up because this will be a wild ride through pipes, castles, racing circuits and beyond.
1. Super Mario World
Released in 1990 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), Super Mario World tops the list of best Mario games in Nintendo history. The game had everything — a vast world map filled with secret paths, new characters and a wide selection of power-ups. It also introduced Yoshi, Mario’s lovable dinosaur companion, expanding the gameplay in exciting ways.
The addition of the cape feather allowed for gliding and added a layer of strategy to level navigation. Super Mario World is often celebrated for its polished design, tight controls and the way it encourages exploration. It’s the quintessential Mario experience many fans hold dear to their hearts to this day.
2. Super Mario Odyssey
This title easily takes the cake for the best Mario game on Switch since its launch in 2017. It marked a triumphant return to open-world exploration, reminiscent of Super Mario 64 but with a modern twist.
In Odyssey, you team up with a sentient hat named Cappy to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser’s wedding plans. The game has earned stellar reviews worldwide, achieving a metacritic score of 97 and 89% positive user ratings.
3. Super Mario Bros
Released for the Nintendo Entertainment System, this groundbreaking title defined the platforming genre. In Super Mario Bros., you control Mario as he embarks on a quest to rescue Princess Peach from the villainous Bowser.
The game features a variety of levels filled with enemies, power-ups and hidden secrets. Its perfect blend of challenging gameplay and simple controls allowed players of all ages to jump right in. Its influence is undeniable — and it’s the game that started it all.
Get in on the nostalgia with this free-to-play version of Super Mario Bros on your desktop or mobile device.
4. Super Mario 64
Fast forward to 1996, and you have the revolutionary title introducing 3D platforming to the world. The freedom to explore vast 3D environments at your own pace was a game-changer. It also laid the groundwork for countless iterations that followed.
Remember that feeling of uncovering a hidden 1-Up or a previously unseen area? That sense of discovery is what sets Super Mario 64 apart. You can probably still remember the exhilarating feeling of mastering a tricky wall kick or the triumph of finally reaching a distant Power Star after countless attempts.
While sometimes frustrating, the camera angles were also crucial to the experience. Mastering its quirks was part of the challenge, forcing you to develop spatial awareness and anticipate Mario’s movements. Ultimately, Super Mario 64 is a beloved game you revisit not just for nostalgia but because the core gameplay holds up incredibly well even today.
5. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
This game takes everything you love about Mario Kart and amplifies it with an extensive tracklist, vast character roster and balanced racing pods. Since its release in 2017, it has quickly become one of the best Mario games on Switch, immersing you in imaginative worlds. You can’t help but admire the design as you drift through Sweet Sweet Canyon or the futuristic Neo Bowser City.
Whether you prefer the speed of a lightweight character like Toad or the stability of a heavy one like Morton, you can experiment with different combinations. Let’s not forget about the multiplayer experience. The thrill of competition is ever palpable whether you’re playing with friends locally or racing against players worldwide.
Overall, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe celebrates everything that makes kart racing special. It perfectly blends nostalgia and innovation, ensuring every race is a memorable adventure.
6. Super Mario Galaxy
Released in 2007 for the Wii, Super Mario Galaxy took the franchise to new heights—literally. The game introduced a unique gravity feature where you can jump between small planets, each with its gravitational pull. The level design was incredibly creative, with vibrant visuals and orchestral music creating an immersive grand adventure experience.
Super Mario Galaxy also introduced new gameplay mechanics, such as the spin attack and flying feature. The game presented a captivating narrative involving the rescue of Princess Peach from Bowser. Its innovative level design and charming aesthetic earned it numerous accolades, including the 2008 BAFTA best game award.
7. Super Mario Party Jamboree
Super Mario Party Jamboree was one of the most anticipated Switch games of 2024, alongside Mario & Luigi: Brothership. The game represents a break away from the traditional adventures of exploring tunnels and stomping on turtles. Instead, you play across seven boards, each with a unique mini-game with innovative new mechanics.
You can team up with friends or family to compete in various challenges, all while engaging in cooperative and competitive gameplay. What makes Super Mario Party Jamboree stand out is its emphasis on social interaction and fun, making it a perfect game for gatherings. The vibrant boards feel alive with the charm of the Mario universe and every session offers something fresh and exciting.
Which Mario Game has the Best Story?
The Mario universe has so many compelling storylines, but one of the best by far is Super Paper Mario. It follows Mario as he teams up with Tippi, a Pixl, to rescue Princess Peach and save the world from the evil Count Bleck.
What makes the story so appealing is its blend of humor and emotional depth. The game skillfully weaves in darker themes, exploring concepts like fate and sacrifice, making it resonate on multiple levels. Additionally, the witty dialogue and clever humor keep the tone light and enjoyable, appealing to players of all ages. Overall, Super Paper Mario stands out for its rich storytelling, character development and balancing fun with meaningful themes.
Which Mario Game Is the Hardest?
Based on rankings by TheGamer, GameRant and Den of Geek, Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels is widely considered the most challenging Mario game. Initially released in 1986, this sequel to the original Super Mario Bros. features extremely challenging level designs. Even the most skilled players have fallen to the game’s tricky platforming and numerous hidden traps. Its punishing difficulty has earned it a reputation as one of the toughest entries in the franchise.
Explore the Best Mario Games
The Mushroom Kingdom is a treasure trove of gaming history, filled with titles that have profoundly shaped the industry. From the groundbreaking Super Mario Bros. to the innovative Super Mario Odyssey, each game brings something unique to the table. Whether you’re a fan of classic 2D platformers or 3D adventures, there’s a Mario game that will capture your heart.
So, grab your controller and get ready for an adventure like no other—because in the world of Mario, there’s always something fun to explore.
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