Best Mario Games: Top Picks For Ultimate Fun
Hey guys! Are you ready to jump into the vibrant world of Mario? If you're looking for the best Mario games to play, you've come to the right place! The Mario franchise is iconic, offering endless hours of fun across various platforms. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newbie eager to explore, this guide will help you discover some of the greatest adventures featuring everyone’s favorite plumber.
Super Mario Odyssey
Super Mario Odyssey is a must-play for anyone seeking a fresh and innovative Mario experience. Released on the Nintendo Switch, this game takes Mario on a globe-trotting adventure far beyond the Mushroom Kingdom. What makes Odyssey stand out is Cappy, a sentient hat that allows Mario to capture and control various objects and enemies. This mechanic opens up a plethora of creative gameplay possibilities, from controlling a Tyrannosaurus Rex to zipping around as a Goomba tower.
The game's level design is simply superb. Each kingdom is a unique and sprawling sandbox filled with secrets, challenges, and collectibles. You'll find yourself exploring bustling cities, lush forests, and even underwater ruins, all rendered in stunning detail. The sheer variety keeps the gameplay fresh and engaging, making it hard to put down. Super Mario Odyssey isn’t just about reaching the end of each level; it’s about discovering every nook and cranny, solving puzzles, and mastering new abilities.
One of the highlights of Super Mario Odyssey is its post-game content. Once you beat the main story, even more challenges and moons (the game's main collectible) become available. This extends the playtime significantly and provides plenty of reasons to revisit each kingdom. The game also supports cooperative play, allowing a second player to control Cappy and assist Mario on his adventure. Whether you're playing solo or with a friend, Super Mario Odyssey offers a delightful and unforgettable experience that truly captures the spirit of Mario.
Super Mario World
Super Mario World, originally released for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), remains a timeless classic and is often regarded as one of the best 2D Mario games ever created. This game introduced many elements that have become staples of the series, including Yoshi, the lovable dinosaur companion. The introduction of Yoshi added a new layer of gameplay, allowing Mario to eat enemies, fly, and access hidden areas.
The game's world map is expansive and filled with secrets. Each level is meticulously designed, offering a perfect balance of challenge and fun. From the iconic Yoshi's Island to the treacherous Valley of Bowser, every world is memorable and distinct. The level design encourages exploration, with hidden exits and secret pathways that lead to new areas and shortcuts.
Super Mario World also features a vibrant color palette and charming graphics that still hold up today. The soundtrack is equally iconic, with memorable tunes that perfectly complement the gameplay. Whether you're soaring through the sky with a cape feather or stomping Goombas on the ground, Super Mario World offers a nostalgic and delightful experience that appeals to both new and old Mario fans. Its influence on subsequent Mario games is undeniable, and it remains a benchmark for 2D platformers.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
No list of the best Mario games would be complete without mentioning Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. This kart racing game is a perfect party game and a blast to play solo. Available on the Nintendo Switch, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe includes all the content from the original Mario Kart 8 on the Wii U, plus additional characters, karts, and modes.
The game boasts an impressive roster of characters from the Mario universe, each with their own unique stats and abilities. You can race as Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Bowser, and many more. The kart customization options are extensive, allowing you to create the perfect vehicle to suit your racing style. Choose from a variety of frames, tires, and gliders to fine-tune your kart's performance.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe features a wide array of tracks, ranging from classic courses from previous Mario Kart games to new and innovative tracks inspired by other Nintendo franchises like The Legend of Zelda and Animal Crossing. The anti-gravity sections add a thrilling twist to the races, allowing you to drive on walls and ceilings. With its smooth controls, vibrant graphics, and chaotic item-based gameplay, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for players of all skill levels.
Super Mario Galaxy
Super Mario Galaxy, released on the Nintendo Wii, is a groundbreaking title that redefined 3D Mario platforming. The game takes Mario to outer space, where he explores a series of gravity-defying galaxies. Each galaxy is filled with unique challenges and puzzles that utilize the Wii's motion controls in clever ways.
The game's spherical level design is ingenious, allowing Mario to run, jump, and flip around miniature planets. The gravity mechanics add a fresh and exciting dimension to the gameplay, creating a sense of wonder and discovery. The game also features a captivating story, with memorable characters like Rosalina and her observatory.
Super Mario Galaxy is not only visually stunning but also features a breathtaking orchestral soundtrack that perfectly complements the game's epic scope. The game's difficulty is well-balanced, offering a challenge for experienced players while remaining accessible to newcomers. With its innovative gameplay, imaginative level design, and stunning presentation, Super Mario Galaxy is a true masterpiece of the Mario franchise.
New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe
New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is a fantastic 2D platformer available on the Nintendo Switch. It's an enhanced version of the original New Super Mario Bros. U released on the Wii U, and it includes the New Super Luigi U expansion, offering a wealth of content for Mario fans.
The game features classic side-scrolling Mario gameplay with tight controls and challenging level design. You can play solo or with up to four players in local multiplayer, making it a great option for family game nights. The game introduces new power-ups, such as the Super Acorn, which allows Mario to glide through the air.
New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe features a massive world map with a variety of environments, from lush forests to icy mountains. The game's difficulty is adjustable, allowing you to tailor the experience to your skill level. With its charming graphics, catchy music, and addictive gameplay, New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is a must-have for fans of 2D Mario games.
Super Mario Maker 2
For those who love to create and share, Super Mario Maker 2 is the ultimate Mario experience. This game allows you to design your own Mario levels using a wide array of tools and assets. You can choose from different game styles, including Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros. 3, Super Mario World, New Super Mario Bros. U, and Super Mario 3D World.
The level editor is intuitive and easy to use, allowing you to create everything from simple obstacle courses to complex contraptions. You can add enemies, power-ups, and even customize the level's music and visual style. Once you've created your masterpiece, you can upload it online and share it with the world.
Super Mario Maker 2 also features a robust online community, where you can play levels created by other players. The game includes a story mode with over 100 pre-built levels, providing inspiration and ideas for your own creations. With its endless possibilities and vibrant community, Super Mario Maker 2 is a game that keeps on giving.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – some of the best Mario games you can play right now! Whether you're into 3D adventures, classic 2D platforming, or kart racing mayhem, there's a Mario game out there for everyone. Dive in and experience the magic of the Mushroom Kingdom for yourself. Happy gaming, guys!