What are the best games set in the Super Mario universe?
With the highly anticipated release of Mario vs Donkey Kong on February 16th, 2024, and Princess Peach: Showtime! on March 22nd 2024 (both available on Nintendo Switch), we’ve ranked the top Mario games available right now! So, if you’re a fan of the classic characters that have become such pillars in the gaming community, then take a look at the 5 options below! Whilst there are definitely some notable older classics within the Mario universe, the games chosen can all be played on modern day consoles (mainly the Switch). The picks also span a multitude of genres and will each be ranked on a set of metrics that make the Mario games so special. These are:
| ✓ Gameplay Mechanics | ✓ Level Design | ✓ Learning Curve |
| ✓ Uniqueness |
What are the features of the upcoming Mario games?
Firstly, what does Mario vs Donkey Kong offer that has got fans so excited? Mario vs Donkey Kong is a remake of the classic GameCube game in which, reigniting their age old rivalry, Donkey Kong has stolen the Mini-Mario toys from the factory. Playing single or multiplayer, it is your job to traverse over 130 diverse levels to get them back. The game also offers a Casual Mode, with added checkpoints throughout each puzzle-platform level to keep things quick and fun on those days you don’t have as much time. Check out Mario vs Donkey Kong here!
Princess Peach: Showtime! follows Peach on her calamitous visit to the Sparkle Theatre. Featuring Princess Peach as the main character for the first time since Super Princess Peach (2005), Peach takes to the stage as several different versions of herself (Ninja Peach, Cowgirl Peach, Patisserie Peach to name a few!). Each version of Peach comes with its own unique appearance, abilities, and levels to keep the game fresh, varied and exciting throughout! Check out Princess Peach: Showtime here!
For fans of racing games: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe/rating:4.75
Ratings (Out of 5)
Level Design
For fans of racing games, look no further than Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, an expanded version of the original release on Wii U! With 48 tracks (including DLCs), you can expect a huge variety of locations, from classic Mario staples like Rainbow Road (yeah, we know) to exciting newcomers like Dragon Driftway. Each level is beautifully designed, vibrant, and packed with hidden areas! The game features a massive roster of 42 playable characters, including Mario and Luigi, fan-favourites like Bowser and Rosalina, and even guest appearances from Zelda’s Link and Animal Crossing’s Isabelle. Additionally, there is a variety of game modes ranging from Single Player, Time Trials, and the beloved return of the Battle Mode to name a few!
Gameplay
One notable inclusion to the Mario Kart 8 instalment is the anti-gravity areas of the map, which allows the tracks to avert themselves and twist and turn in any direction. Not only does this add a level of freshness to veterans of the franchise, but you can also be tactical as each bump in the anti-gravity sections gives you a speed boost! Of course, the game still features the iconic item boxes, featuring everyone’s favourite rage inducing shells, but the wait time between the box being collected and then reappearing is significantly reduced. This is a very welcome addition to the gameplay mechanics, especially when racing in 200cc. Yes, you read that right. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe features the completely new engine class 200cc, which is as highly chaotic, intense and adrenaline fuelled as it sounds!
The gameplay is smooth, visually striking, fast paced and truly offers something for everyone, whether a casual player or the more seasoned veteran. It is easy to learn but harder to master and bustling with game modes and unlockable features. Sink some time into experimenting with the expansive range of characters as well as customising your kart from its frame and parachute right down to its wheels! The possibilities are almost endless, and you’ll have an absolute blast testing it all out.
Best 2D platformer: Super Mario Bros. Wonder /rating:4.75
Ratings (Out of 5)
Level Design
Super Mario Bros. Wonder takes the tried and true 2D platform genre and revamps it for modern consoles in the first traditional side-scrolling Super Mario game since New Super Mario Bros. U (2012)! The story is fairly simple, following the classic Mario formula; Bowser has once again kidnapped Princess Peach, and it’s up to Mario and Luigi to save her. However, in a first for the Mario universe, they have the help of new Wonder Flowers that grant them unique abilities such as blowing bubbles, drilling through the ground, and including Mario’s newest power up; Elephant Mario. All of these features succeed in adding a layer of variety and creativity to the traditional Mario experience we have come to love.
Gameplay
The game is brimming with colourful and creative levels, each with its own unique theme and challenges. Indeed, the game features a new art style that is both cute and striking and the soundtrack is catchy and upbeat to perfectly complement the game’s atmosphere. The game prioritizes fun and accessibility over raw difficulty, and most can comfortably progress through the main story. If you are a fan of more of a challenge, however, there is also the inclusion of optional challenges and higher difficulty settings. When playing in co-op mode, lives are shared resulting in less frustration all around.
Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a delightful and charming platformer that offers a fresh take on the classic Mario formula. With its creative use of Wonder Flowers, its diverse levels, and fun and engaging gameplay, it is a must for any Mario fan!
Best 3D platformer: Super Mario Galaxy 2 /rating:4.5
Ratings (Out of 5)
Level Design
For fans of 3D platform games, look no further than Super Mario Galaxy 2! It directly follows the first Super Mario Galaxy, sending Mario and the gang on another cosmic adventure to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser’s clutches. Whilst the first instalment lays some groundwork for the story and mechanics, it is not totally necessary to play first (although definitely also a great game). The game refines the controls of its predecessor, making Mario’s movements even tighter and more intuitive. New power-ups like Rock Mario and Bee Mario introduce exciting abilities, while everyone’s favourite dinosaur Yoshi returns with his unique skills. Whether bouncing across clouds as Cloud Mario or spinning through levels as Bee Mario, each power-up adds a fresh layer of fun and opens up new gameplay possibilities.
Gameplay
While core platforming mechanics remain familiar, Super Mario Galaxy 2 doesn’t shy away from introducing new and unique elements. Comet Medals offer extra challenges for more seasoned veterans and the addition of hidden collectibles throughout the galaxies adds a rewarding layer of exploration, encouraging you to uncover every nook and cranny. Whilst the game is two player, the co-op mechanics are not as refined or immersive as some others on this list. The multiplayer option, called Co-Star mode, allows one player to play as Mario while the other controls a Star Pointer on-screen to gather Star Bits and shoot them at enemies. It’s a little disappointing, but at least there’s the option!
If you’re looking for a polished and innovative 3D platformer with fluid gameplay, charming visuals, and a fun-filled adventure, then absolutely take a trip through the cosmic playgrounds of Super Mario Galaxy 2! You’ll be swept away by the game’s vibrant worlds, engaging challenges, and thoroughly delightful experience.
For fans of RPGs: Paper Mario: The Origami King /rating:4.5
Ratings (Out of 5)
Level Design
Paper Mario: The Origami King is a unique RPG adventure in which the Mushroom Kingdom has been transformed into a world of origami, with Princess Peach folded into a decorative ornament. Mario teams up with the character Olivia to undo the origami curse and restore the kingdom. Traverse vibrant landscapes, interact with folded inhabitants, and uncover hidden secrets, all while unravelling the light-hearted yet touching story. Expect witty dialogue, charming characters, and themes of friendship that perfectly capture the spirit of classic Paper Mario titles.
Gameplay
In terms of gameplay, the strategic and innovative ring-based combat allows you to position enemies effectively to maximize damage and outmanoeuvre opponents. Beyond battles, you are given the opportunity to embark on a puzzle-solving adventure, collecting materials to craft helpful tools and exploring diverse environments teeming with secrets. The game encourages exploration and rewards curiosity with hidden collectibles, mini-games, and side quests, ensuring a vibrant and engaging experience throughout.
Paper Mario: The Origami King truly shines with its distinct identity. Immerse yourself in a stunning papercraft aesthetic where textures and vibrant colours seamlessly blend to create a captivating world. Prepare for unexpected story twists, humorous moments, and engaging boss battles that put your strategic thinking and puzzle-solving skills to the test.
For soccer fans: Mario Strikers Battle League /rating:3
Ratings (Out of 5)
Gameplay
Released in 2023 for the Nintendo Switch, Mario Strikers: Battle League emerged as an intense, chaotic, and undeniably fun soccer game with a twist! Forget yellow cards and fair play – this is 5v5 soccer Mario-style! Embrace aggressive tackles, explosive items like bob-ombs and bananas, and even score two goals at once with devastating Hyper Strikes. The fast-paced action demands quick reflexes and strategic use of items, ensuring no two matches are ever the same. Whether choosing to play local or online, Mario Strikers: Battle League has you covered! Climb the ranks in online seasons, challenge yourself in the single-player Galactic Mode, or battle it out in casual matches. Free updates have also expanded the content, adding new characters, stadiums, and gear options to keep things fresh.
While praised for its chaotically fun and unique gameplay, and online multiplayer, Mario Strikers: Battle League wasn’t universally loved at launch, predominantly due to a limited starting roster and lack of single-player depth. However, free updates have addressed some concerns, and the core gameplay remains undeniably charming and full of Mario-themed madness.
So is it worth it? If you’re looking for an intensely thrilling soccer game with a Mario twist, Mario Strikers: Battle League is worth a shot. The fast-paced action, online competition, and engaging presentation offer an enjoyable experience, especially with friends. However, if you prefer a deeper single-player experience or more traditional soccer gameplay, you may want to look elsewhere.
