Super Mario Games On Nintendo Switch: Ranked!
Hey guys! Let's dive into the wonderful world of Super Mario on the Nintendo Switch. We're going to rank the best Mario games available, giving you the lowdown on why each game shines and where it might fall a little short. Whether you're a seasoned Mario veteran or a fresh-faced newcomer, there's bound to be something here that tickles your fancy. So, grab your Joy-Cons, and let's jump in!
1. Super Mario Odyssey
Super Mario Odyssey isn't just a great Mario game; it's a masterpiece of game design. This title tops our list because it reinvents the Mario formula while staying true to the core of what makes these games so beloved. The introduction of Cappy, Mario’s new companion, opens up a world of possibilities, allowing Mario to capture enemies and objects, inheriting their abilities. Want to be a T-Rex? Go for it! Fancy flinging yourself across gaps as a Bullet Bill? You got it! This mechanic adds incredible depth and variety to the gameplay, keeping things fresh and exciting throughout the entire adventure.
The game's structure is also a breath of fresh air. Instead of the traditional linear levels, Super Mario Odyssey features expansive kingdoms packed with secrets, challenges, and collectibles. Each kingdom is a vibrant and unique world, from the bustling Metro Kingdom, a loving homage to New York City, to the sunny shores of the Seaside Kingdom. Exploring these kingdoms is a joy in itself, and the game rewards curiosity with a seemingly endless supply of Power Moons, the game's main collectible. Finding these Power Moons often requires creative problem-solving, skillful platforming, and a keen eye for detail.
Beyond the innovative gameplay and world design, Super Mario Odyssey also excels in its presentation. The game looks absolutely stunning on the Nintendo Switch, with vibrant colors, detailed environments, and smooth animations. The soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring a mix of catchy tunes and memorable melodies that perfectly complement the on-screen action. And let's not forget the iconic "Jump Up, Super Star!" song, which has become an anthem for the game and a fan favorite.
Super Mario Odyssey isn’t just about collecting things; it’s about the joy of exploration, the thrill of discovery, and the satisfaction of mastering new abilities. It's a game that constantly surprises and delights, offering something new around every corner. Whether you're a long-time Mario fan or new to the series, Super Mario Odyssey is a must-play title that will leave you with a smile on your face.
2. Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury
Next up, we have Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury, a delightful package that offers both a classic Mario experience and a bold new adventure. Super Mario 3D World was originally released on the Wii U, but it truly shines on the Nintendo Switch with improved visuals and smoother performance. This game is a fantastic example of Mario’s ability to bring friends and family together for some cooperative fun.
Super Mario 3D World is a 3D platformer that harkens back to the classic 2D Mario games, with a focus on linear levels and a clear goal: reach the flagpole at the end. However, what sets Super Mario 3D World apart is its multiplayer focus. Up to four players can team up as Mario, Luigi, Peach, and Toad, each with their unique abilities. Mario is the all-rounder, Luigi can jump higher, Peach can float, and Toad is the fastest. Playing with friends and family adds a whole new dimension to the game, as you work together to overcome obstacles, compete for the highest score, and, of course, mischievously throw each other off platforms.
The level design in Super Mario 3D World is consistently excellent, with each stage packed with creative challenges, hidden secrets, and charming details. The game introduces the Super Bell, which transforms the characters into cat versions of themselves, allowing them to climb walls and pounce on enemies. This power-up adds a fun new twist to the gameplay and opens up new possibilities for exploration.
But the real highlight of this package is Bowser's Fury, a brand-new adventure that showcases a more open-world approach to Mario gameplay. In Bowser's Fury, Mario teams up with Bowser Jr. to stop Bowser, who has been transformed into a gigantic, monstrous creature. The game takes place in Lake Lapcat, a vast open world filled with islands, challenges, and collectibles. The dynamic weather system and the constant threat of Fury Bowser add a sense of urgency and excitement to the experience.
Bowser's Fury is a shorter experience than Super Mario 3D World, but it's a fantastic glimpse into the future of Mario games. It combines the classic Mario platforming with the freedom and exploration of an open world, creating a unique and unforgettable experience. Together, Super Mario 3D World and Bowser's Fury offer a diverse and compelling package that is sure to please Mario fans of all ages.
3. New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe
New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is a fantastic addition to the Nintendo Switch library, bringing classic 2D Mario action to the handheld console. This game is perfect for those who love the traditional side-scrolling Mario experience, with tight controls, challenging level design, and plenty of secrets to discover. It’s a solid choice for both solo players and those looking for some chaotic multiplayer fun.
New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe includes both New Super Mario Bros. U and New Super Luigi U, offering a wealth of content to keep you entertained for hours. The main game, New Super Mario Bros. U, features a vast world map with diverse environments, from lush forests to icy mountains to underwater kingdoms. Each level is carefully crafted with a focus on platforming challenges, hidden collectibles, and clever enemy placement. The game introduces new power-ups, such as the Super Acorn, which allows Mario to glide through the air, adding a new layer of strategy to the gameplay.
New Super Luigi U is a more challenging version of the main game, with shorter levels, faster gameplay, and a stricter time limit. This mode is designed for experienced Mario players who are looking for a real test of their skills. Playing as Luigi, you'll need to master his unique abilities, such as his higher jump, to overcome the obstacles and reach the end of each level.
One of the highlights of New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is its multiplayer mode. Up to four players can team up to tackle the levels together, creating a chaotic and hilarious experience. Working together to overcome challenges, competing for the highest score, and mischievously sabotaging each other are all part of the fun. The game also features a variety of multiplayer modes, such as Coin Battle and Boost Rush, adding even more replay value.
While New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe doesn't reinvent the wheel, it offers a polished and refined version of the classic 2D Mario formula. The game looks great on the Nintendo Switch, with vibrant colors and smooth animations. The controls are tight and responsive, making it a joy to play. Whether you're a long-time Mario fan or new to the series, New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is a must-have title for your Nintendo Switch library.
4. Super Mario Maker 2
Super Mario Maker 2 is a game that truly unleashes your creativity. If you've ever dreamed of designing your own Mario levels, this is the game for you. With a vast array of tools and options, Super Mario Maker 2 allows you to create everything from classic Mario stages to mind-bendingly difficult challenges. It's a game that offers endless possibilities and a constantly evolving stream of content.
The core of Super Mario Maker 2 is its level creation tools. The game provides a user-friendly interface that allows you to easily drag and drop elements onto the screen, creating your own unique levels. 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 (though the 3D World style has some limitations compared to the others). Each theme comes with its own unique set of enemies, items, and mechanics, allowing you to create levels that feel authentic to the original games.
But Super Mario Maker 2 isn't just about creating levels; it's also about sharing them with the world. The game features a robust online community where you can upload your creations and play levels created by other players. This creates a constantly evolving stream of content, with new and exciting levels being added every day. You can browse levels by difficulty, popularity, or even by specific tags, making it easy to find something that suits your tastes.
In addition to the level creation and sharing aspects, Super Mario Maker 2 also features a single-player story mode. In this mode, you play as Mario as he rebuilds Princess Peach’s castle. The story mode features over 100 pre-made levels designed by Nintendo, showcasing the versatility of the level creation tools and providing inspiration for your own creations.
Super Mario Maker 2 is a game that appeals to both creators and players. Whether you enjoy designing your own levels or exploring the creations of others, there's something here for everyone. The game is constantly being updated with new features and content, ensuring that there's always something new to discover. If you're a Mario fan with a creative streak, Super Mario Maker 2 is a must-have title for your Nintendo Switch.
Conclusion
So, there you have it, guys! Our ranking of the Super Mario games on Nintendo Switch. From the innovative Super Mario Odyssey to the classic 2D action of New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe, there's a Mario game on the Switch for everyone. Whether you're a seasoned platforming pro or a casual gamer, these games are sure to provide hours of fun and excitement. Now, go grab your Switch and get ready to jump into the Mushroom Kingdom!