Top Nintendo Switch Mario Games: A Must-Play List
Hey guys! If you're like me, you're absolutely in love with your Nintendo Switch and the magical world of Mario. The Nintendo Switch has become a hub for both new and classic Mario adventures. So, if you're wondering what the best Nintendo Switch Mario games are, you've come to the right place! Let's dive into a must-play list that'll keep you entertained for hours.
1. Super Mario Odyssey
Super Mario Odyssey is arguably one of the best Nintendo Switch Mario games ever created. This game is a joyful, inventive, and endlessly surprising adventure that reinvents the 3D Mario formula. You play as Mario, of course, who teams up with Cappy, a sentient hat, to rescue Princess Peach from the clutches of Bowser, who's planning a forced wedding! Seriously, Bowser, not cool.
Gameplay and Mechanics
The gameplay in Super Mario Odyssey is centered around exploration and collection. Mario travels to various kingdoms, each with its unique environments, challenges, and collectibles called Power Moons. These moons power the Odyssey, Mario's airship, allowing him to travel to new locations. The levels are ingeniously designed, packed with secrets, and offer incredible freedom of movement.
Cappy adds a whole new layer to Mario's abilities. Mario can throw Cappy to attack enemies, activate mechanisms, and, most importantly, capture enemies and objects. This capture mechanic allows Mario to take control of various creatures and objects, each with their own unique abilities. Want to control a T-Rex? Go for it! How about a Cheep Cheep for underwater exploration? Absolutely! This mechanic keeps the gameplay fresh and exciting throughout the entire adventure.
Why It's a Must-Play
Super Mario Odyssey is a must-play because it perfectly captures the spirit of Mario while pushing the boundaries of what a 3D platformer can be. The game is filled with charm, humor, and countless moments of pure joy. Whether you're a long-time Mario fan or new to the series, Super Mario Odyssey offers something for everyone. The sheer amount of content, including post-game challenges and hidden areas, ensures that you'll be playing this game for a long time. It’s bright, it’s bold, and it's brimming with creativity.
2. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe isn't just one of the best Nintendo Switch Mario games; it's one of the best kart racers of all time. This game takes the already fantastic Mario Kart 8 from the Wii U and enhances it with new characters, tracks, and gameplay features. If you're looking for some high-speed, chaotic fun with friends and family, look no further.
Gameplay and Features
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe features a massive roster of characters from the Mario universe, as well as guest characters from other Nintendo franchises like The Legend of Zelda and Animal Crossing. Each character has their own stats, so you can choose the one that fits your play style. The game also boasts an impressive selection of tracks, including classics from previous Mario Kart games and brand-new circuits that take full advantage of the Switch's graphical capabilities.
The gameplay is classic Mario Kart: race around colorful tracks, collect items to attack your opponents or defend yourself, and try to cross the finish line in first place. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe introduces new items and mechanics, such as the Boo item, which makes you invisible and steals an item from another player, and the ability to hold two items at once. The game also features anti-gravity sections where you can drive on walls and ceilings, adding a unique twist to the racing action.
Multiplayer Mayhem
One of the biggest draws of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is its multiplayer mode. You can play with up to four players on a single Switch console, or connect with up to twelve players online. The game offers a variety of multiplayer modes, including Grand Prix, Versus Race, and Battle Mode. Battle Mode has been revamped in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, with new arenas and game types, such as Balloon Battle and Renegade Roundup. Get ready to shell your friends!
Why It's a Must-Play
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a must-play because it's the ultimate party game. It's easy to pick up and play, but it offers enough depth to keep you coming back for more. The sheer amount of content, combined with the addictive gameplay and the thrill of competition, makes Mario Kart 8 Deluxe a game that you'll be playing for years to come. Whether you're a casual gamer or a seasoned pro, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is guaranteed to provide hours of fun and excitement.
3. Super Mario Maker 2
If you're the creative type, Super Mario Maker 2 is one of the best Nintendo Switch Mario games you can get your hands on. This game allows you to create your own Mario levels using a wide variety of tools and assets. You can then share your creations with the world and play levels created by other players. The possibilities are endless!
Unleash Your Creativity
Super Mario Maker 2 gives you access to a robust set of tools that allow you to design levels in the style of Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros. 3, Super Mario World, New Super Mario Bros. U, and even Super Mario 3D World. You can choose from a variety of themes, including classic overworld, underground, castle, and airship themes, as well as new themes like desert, snow, forest, and sky. The game also features a wide range of enemies, items, and obstacles that you can use to populate your levels. From Goombas to Chain Chomps, the choice is yours.
Course World
The heart of Super Mario Maker 2 is Course World, where you can upload and share your creations with other players. You can browse levels by popularity, difficulty, and other criteria, and you can even follow your favorite creators to see when they upload new levels. The game also features a ranking system, so you can see how your levels stack up against the competition. Getting your level featured is a badge of honor!
Story Mode
If you're not feeling particularly creative, Super Mario Maker 2 also includes a Story Mode with over 100 pre-made levels designed by Nintendo. These levels are designed to teach you the basics of level design and give you inspiration for your own creations. The story is simple: Mario and his friends are rebuilding Princess Peach's castle, and they need to complete various jobs to earn coins. These jobs involve completing levels designed by different creators, each with their own unique style and challenges. The story mode also has some comedic beats that will leave you giggling.
Why It's a Must-Play
Super Mario Maker 2 is a must-play because it offers endless replayability. Whether you're creating your own levels or playing levels created by other players, there's always something new to discover. The game is also a great way to learn about level design and game mechanics. If you've ever wondered what goes into creating a Mario level, Super Mario Maker 2 will give you a whole new appreciation for the art form. It's a game that fosters creativity, community, and endless fun.
4. New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe
New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is a fantastic addition to the best Nintendo Switch Mario games, bringing classic 2D Mario platforming to the Switch. This game includes both New Super Mario Bros. U and New Super Luigi U, offering a wealth of content for fans of the series. If you love traditional Mario gameplay with a modern twist, this is the game for you.
Classic Mario Gameplay
New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe features classic 2D Mario gameplay with a focus on platforming and exploration. You can play as Mario, Luigi, Toad, or Nabbit, each with their own unique abilities. The game features a wide variety of levels, each with its own challenges and secrets. From grassy plains to underwater caves, the game offers a diverse range of environments to explore. Power-ups like the Super Mushroom, Fire Flower, and Super Star make a return, along with new additions like the Super Acorn, which transforms Mario into a Flying Squirrel.
New Super Luigi U
New Super Luigi U is a standalone adventure included in New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe. This game features shorter, more challenging levels designed specifically for Luigi. Luigi's movement is different from Mario's; he jumps higher but has less traction, making the levels more difficult to navigate. New Super Luigi U is a great option for experienced Mario players who are looking for a challenge.
Multiplayer Fun
New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe supports up to four players in local multiplayer. Playing with friends can make the game even more chaotic and fun, as you work together to complete levels and collect coins. The game also features a Boost Rush mode, where you can race against the clock to complete levels as quickly as possible.
Why It's a Must-Play
New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is a must-play because it's a perfect example of classic Mario gameplay done right. The game is challenging, rewarding, and endlessly replayable. Whether you're a long-time fan of the series or new to the world of Mario, New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe offers something for everyone. It's a great game to play solo or with friends, and it's guaranteed to provide hours of fun and excitement. Plus, who doesn't love a good 2D Mario game?
5. Super Mario 3D All-Stars
Okay, so Super Mario 3D All-Stars is a bit of a controversial pick due to its limited availability, but if you managed to snag a copy, you know it belongs on the list of the best Nintendo Switch Mario games. This collection includes Super Mario 64, Super Mario Sunshine, and Super Mario Galaxy, three of the most beloved 3D Mario games of all time. While the collection has its flaws, it's still a great way to experience these classics on the Switch.
A Trip Down Memory Lane
Super Mario 64 is a revolutionary game that defined the 3D platforming genre. The game features open-world environments, innovative controls, and a memorable cast of characters. Super Mario Sunshine takes Mario to Isle Delfino, a tropical paradise that's been covered in goop. Mario must use FLUDD, a water-spraying device, to clean up the mess and uncover the mystery behind the goop. Super Mario Galaxy is a space-themed adventure that features gravity-defying levels and innovative gameplay mechanics. Mario travels between different galaxies, collecting Power Stars to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser.
Emulation Quirks
The emulation in Super Mario 3D All-Stars isn't perfect. Super Mario Sunshine still has some framerate issues, and Super Mario 64 uses the original's control scheme, which can feel clunky by modern standards. However, the games are still largely enjoyable, and it's great to have them all in one place.
Why It's a Must-Play (If You Can Find It)
Super Mario 3D All-Stars is a must-play because it's a celebration of Mario's legacy. These games are classics for a reason, and they're still worth playing today. If you missed out on them the first time around, Super Mario 3D All-Stars is a great way to catch up. Just be prepared to pay a premium price, as the game is no longer widely available. Hopefully Nintendo will rerelease these gems someday!
So there you have it, my list of the best Nintendo Switch Mario games! Whether you're into 2D platforming, 3D exploration, or creative level design, there's a Mario game on the Switch for you. So grab your Joy-Cons, fire up your Switch, and get ready for some Mario magic! Happy gaming, guys!