Top Mario Games: A Must-Play List For Every Gamer

Hey guys! If you're looking for the best Mario game to play, you've come to the right place. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the Mushroom Kingdom, there's a Mario game out there for everyone. In this article, we'll dive into some of the most iconic and enjoyable Mario games ever created. Get ready for a nostalgic trip and some fresh recommendations!

Super Mario Bros. (1985)

Let's kick things off with the game that started it all: Super Mario Bros. Released in 1985 for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), this game revolutionized the platforming genre and introduced the world to Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and the villainous Bowser. The impact of Super Mario Bros. on the gaming industry cannot be overstated; it set the standard for side-scrolling adventures and established many of the core elements that define Mario games to this day.

The game's simple yet ingenious design made it accessible to players of all ages and skill levels. The levels are cleverly crafted, with hidden secrets, warp zones, and challenging obstacles that keep players engaged from start to finish. The iconic music, composed by Koji Kondo, is instantly recognizable and evokes a sense of nostalgia for anyone who grew up with the NES. Super Mario Bros. wasn't just a game; it was a cultural phenomenon that helped revitalize the video game industry after the crash of 1983.

One of the key reasons for its success was its intuitive gameplay. The controls are easy to learn, but mastering the game requires precision and timing. Players must navigate Mario through eight different worlds, each consisting of four levels, battling Bowser's minions along the way. Power-ups like the Super Mushroom, Fire Flower, and Starman add variety and excitement to the gameplay, allowing Mario to grow larger, shoot fireballs, and become invincible. The sense of accomplishment after completing a difficult level or discovering a hidden area is incredibly rewarding.

Super Mario World (1990)

Next up, we have Super Mario World, which graced the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) in 1990. This title expanded upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, introducing new mechanics, characters, and a vast, interconnected world map. Super Mario World is often hailed as one of the greatest video games of all time, and for good reason. It's a masterpiece of game design that continues to captivate players decades after its release.

A standout feature of Super Mario World is the introduction of Yoshi, Mario's trusty dinosaur sidekick. Yoshi adds a new layer of gameplay, allowing Mario to eat enemies, flutter jump, and access previously unreachable areas. Riding Yoshi through the game's vibrant and colorful levels is an absolute joy, and the bond between Mario and Yoshi is one of the most endearing in video game history. The game's world map is another highlight, offering players a sense of exploration and freedom rarely seen in side-scrolling platformers.

The level design in Super Mario World is exceptional, with each stage offering unique challenges and surprises. From the lush forests of Yoshi's Island to the perilous depths of Bowser's Castle, the game's environments are diverse and visually stunning. Hidden levels and secret exits add to the game's replayability, encouraging players to explore every nook and cranny. The game's soundtrack, once again composed by Koji Kondo, is equally impressive, with catchy melodies that perfectly complement the on-screen action. Super Mario World is a must-play for any fan of platforming games.

Super Mario 64 (1996)

Super Mario 64 marked Mario's groundbreaking transition to 3D gaming. Released in 1996 for the Nintendo 64, this game redefined the platforming genre and set a new standard for 3D game design. Super Mario 64 is not just a great Mario game; it's a landmark title that influenced countless games that followed. The sense of freedom and exploration it offered was unprecedented at the time, and it remains a joy to play even today.

The game's innovative camera controls and intuitive movement system allowed players to navigate Mario through a series of interconnected levels with ease. Collecting Power Stars hidden throughout the levels is the primary objective, and each Star requires players to complete a specific challenge or solve a puzzle. The game's diverse environments, from the sunny shores of Bob-omb Battlefield to the chilling heights of Cool, Cool Mountain, are filled with secrets and surprises. Super Mario 64's gameplay is incredibly addictive, and the sense of accomplishment after collecting a particularly challenging Star is immensely satisfying.

Super Mario 64 also introduced a cast of memorable characters, including King Bob-omb, Big Boo, and the mischievous Lakitu who serves as the game's cameraman. The game's graphics, while dated by today's standards, were revolutionary at the time, bringing Mario and his world to life in a way that had never been seen before. The game's soundtrack, composed by Koji Kondo, is equally iconic, with memorable themes that perfectly capture the game's sense of adventure and wonder. Super Mario 64 is a timeless classic that should be experienced by every gamer.

Super Mario Odyssey (2017)

Fast forward to 2017, and we have Super Mario Odyssey for the Nintendo Switch. This game is a return to the open-world exploration of Super Mario 64, with a fresh twist: Cappy, Mario's new hat companion. Super Mario Odyssey is a celebration of everything that makes Mario games great, combining innovative gameplay mechanics with stunning visuals and a heartwarming story.

Cappy's ability to capture enemies and objects opens up a world of possibilities, allowing Mario to transform into a Goomba, a T-Rex, or even a tank. This mechanic adds a new layer of strategy and creativity to the gameplay, encouraging players to experiment and discover new ways to overcome obstacles. The game's various kingdoms are diverse and visually stunning, each with its unique culture and challenges. From the bustling streets of New Donk City to the tropical beaches of Bubblaine, Super Mario Odyssey's environments are a joy to explore.

The game's story follows Mario and Cappy as they travel the world to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser, who plans to marry her against her will. Along the way, they encounter a colorful cast of characters and visit some truly memorable locations. The game's graphics are beautiful, and the soundtrack is full of catchy tunes that will stay with you long after you've finished playing. Super Mario Odyssey is a must-have for any Nintendo Switch owner and a testament to the enduring appeal of the Mario franchise.

Super Mario Maker 2 (2019)

Finally, we have Super Mario Maker 2, also for the Nintendo Switch. This game puts the power of creation in your hands, allowing you to design and share your own Mario levels with the world. Super Mario Maker 2 is a dream come true for Mario fans who have always wanted to create their own challenges and share them with others. The possibilities are endless, and the game's vibrant community is constantly creating new and exciting levels to play.

The game's intuitive level editor makes it easy to create everything from simple platforming challenges to complex puzzle stages. You can choose from a variety of themes, including Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros. 3, Super Mario World, New Super Mario Bros. U, and Super Mario 3D World, each with its unique art style and gameplay mechanics. The game also includes a story mode with over 100 Nintendo-designed courses, providing plenty of inspiration for your own creations. Super Mario Maker 2 is a fantastic game for anyone who loves Mario and wants to unleash their creativity.

Conclusion

So, there you have it, guys! These are just a few of the best Mario games to play. Each title offers something unique and enjoyable, and they all contribute to the legacy of one of the most beloved video game franchises of all time. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the world of Mario, there's a game on this list that's sure to captivate you. Happy gaming!