The Super Mario series has been a cornerstone of gaming for decades, captivating players with imaginative worlds, timeless gameplay, and unforgettable characters. With dozens of titles spanning generations of consoles, narrowing down the best Mario games is no small feat. Here’s our definitive list of the top 5 Mario games that continue to stand as icons of the franchise.
1. Super Mario World (1990)
Platform: Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES)
Super Mario World is often hailed as the pinnacle of 2D platforming. Released as a launch title for the SNES, this masterpiece expanded the Mario universe in every conceivable way. Players were introduced to Dinosaur Land, a sprawling map filled with secrets, alternate paths, and vibrant worlds.
Yoshi made his debut in this game, quickly becoming a beloved sidekick with unique abilities that added depth to the gameplay. The controls were tight and responsive, and the level design showcased Nintendo’s creativity at its peak. Whether navigating the haunted houses or uncovering Star Road’s secrets, Super Mario World set a gold standard for platformers that remains unmatched.
2. Super Mario 64 (1996)
Platform: Nintendo 64
Few games have revolutionized the industry like Super Mario 64. As Mario’s first leap into 3D, this game redefined what was possible in gaming. The hub world of Peach’s Castle was a marvel, offering players a sense of freedom rarely seen in video games at the time.
The game featured 15 massive worlds, each filled with Power Stars, hidden secrets, and creative challenges. From sliding down icy slopes in Cool, Cool Mountain to soaring through the skies in Wing Cap mode, Super Mario 64 embraced exploration and innovation. Its intuitive controls, dynamic camera system, and groundbreaking design made it an instant classic and a blueprint for 3D platformers to come.
3. Super Mario Odyssey (2017)
Platform: Nintendo Switch
When Super Mario Odyssey launched for the Nintendo Switch, it quickly became one of the most celebrated games in the series. Returning to the sandbox-style gameplay of Super Mario 64, Odysseytook players on a globe-trotting adventure to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser’s elaborate wedding plans.
The introduction of Cappy, Mario’s sentient hat, added a refreshing twist to the gameplay. Cappy allowed Mario to possess enemies and objects, creating unique mechanics and endless opportunities for experimentation. The richly detailed kingdoms, from the bustling streets of New Donk City to the serene landscapes of the Luncheon Kingdom, were packed with Power Moons to discover. Odysseywas a love letter to Mario’s history and a bold step forward for the franchise.
4. Super Mario Galaxy (2007)
Platform: Nintendo Wii
Super Mario Galaxy redefined platforming with its innovative gravity-based gameplay and breathtaking cosmic environments. Players traversed tiny planetoids, each with its own gravitational pull, creating a sense of wonder and challenge unlike anything seen before.
The game’s orchestral soundtrack elevated the experience, perfectly capturing the majesty of space exploration. Super Mario Galaxy balanced clever puzzles with exhilarating action, offering a variety of creative power-ups like the Bee Suit and Boo Mario. Its sequel, Super Mario Galaxy 2, refined the formula further, but the original holds a special place for introducing this groundbreaking concept.
5. Super Mario Bros. 3 (1988)
Platform: Nintendo Entertainment System (NES)
Widely regarded as one of the greatest games of all time, Super Mario Bros. 3 was a monumental leap forward for the series. It introduced an overworld map, giving players the freedom to choose paths and explore secrets. Each world had a unique theme, from the desert landscapes of World 2 to the giant-sized enemies of World 4.
The addition of iconic power-ups, such as the Super Leaf (Tanooki Suit) and the Frog Suit, added layers of strategy and fun to the gameplay. Super Mario Bros. 3 was a technical marvel on the NES, showcasing vibrant visuals, creative level design, and a level of polish that few games could match.
The Mario series has consistently set the bar for excellence in gaming, blending innovative mechanics with timeless charm. Whether it’s the nostalgic magic of Super Mario World, the groundbreaking leap of Super Mario 64, or the inventive spirit of Super Mario Odyssey, these games remind us why Mario is the face of gaming.
What’s your favorite Mario game? Let us know in the comments!