Best Mario Games On Nintendo Switch: Ranked!

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Best Mario Games on Nintendo Switch: Ranked!

Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the whimsical world of Mario on the Nintendo Switch? With so many amazing titles available, it can be tough to decide where to start. But don't worry, because I've got you covered! I've meticulously ranked the best Mario games on the Nintendo Switch, from the must-play masterpieces to the still-fun-but-not-quite-as-essential adventures. Get ready to jump, stomp, and power-up your way through this ultimate ranking!

Why Mario Games Still Reign Supreme

Before we jump into the ranking, let's talk about why Mario games continue to capture our hearts and imaginations. It’s no secret that Mario's adventures have been a cornerstone of gaming for decades, and the Nintendo Switch is no exception. With a blend of classic gameplay mechanics and innovative features, these games offer something for both seasoned gamers and newcomers alike. The accessible yet challenging gameplay is a key component, offering a delightful balance that keeps players engaged. Whether you're executing precise jumps, collecting hidden items, or battling Bowser's minions, there's always something rewarding to achieve. The vibrant and colorful worlds in each Mario game are designed to be visually appealing, offering a sense of wonder and excitement that makes exploration a joy. From lush, green landscapes to underwater kingdoms and even outer space, each environment is brimming with detail and creativity, ensuring that every playthrough feels like a fresh adventure. The enduring appeal of Mario also lies in its cast of characters. Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and the ever-villainous Bowser have become iconic figures in pop culture, each bringing their unique charm and personality to the games. This rich history, coupled with consistently high-quality gameplay, ensures that Mario games remain a staple in every gamer's collection.

My Ranking Criteria

So, how did I decide which games made the top of the list? Well, I considered several factors to ensure a fair and comprehensive ranking. First and foremost, gameplay is king. I looked at how fun and engaging each game is, considering the controls, level design, and overall challenge. A great Mario game needs to feel good to play, with responsive controls and satisfying movement mechanics. Level design is also crucial, with creative and varied environments that encourage exploration and reward skillful play. Innovation also played a huge role in my assessment. Mario games are known for pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the platforming genre, and I gave extra points to titles that introduced new and exciting ideas. Whether it's a groundbreaking new power-up, a unique gameplay mechanic, or a fresh take on the classic formula, innovation helps a game stand out from the crowd. I also factored in replay value. A truly great game should keep you coming back for more, whether it's to collect every last star, beat your best time, or simply experience the joy of the gameplay again. Games with plenty of secrets to uncover, challenges to overcome, and modes to explore ranked higher on my list. Lastly, I considered the overall polish and presentation. A Mario game should look and sound great, with vibrant visuals, catchy music, and a smooth, bug-free experience. Games that demonstrate a high level of care and attention to detail received higher marks.

The Definitive Mario Games Ranking

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty! Here's my ranking of the best Mario games on the Nintendo Switch, from great to absolutely legendary:

Number 5: Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury

Starting off our list is Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury. This title is actually two games in one, offering both a delightful multiplayer experience and a brand-new open-world adventure. Super Mario 3D World is a fantastic co-op platformer where up to four players can team up as Mario, Luigi, Peach, and Toad. The gameplay is fast-paced and chaotic, with each character having their unique abilities. The level design is incredibly creative, with tons of secrets to discover and challenges to overcome. The addition of the Super Bell power-up, which transforms the characters into cats, adds a whole new dimension to the gameplay, allowing players to climb walls and pounce on enemies. Bowser's Fury, on the other hand, is a standalone adventure that takes place in a vast open world. Players control Mario as he explores a series of islands, battling a giant, Fury Bowser. The gameplay is similar to Super Mario Odyssey, with a focus on exploration and collection. The dynamic weather system and the constant threat of Bowser's attacks add a sense of urgency and excitement to the experience. What makes Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury a standout title is its versatility. Whether you're looking for a fun co-op game to play with friends or a sprawling open-world adventure to tackle solo, this game has something for everyone. The combination of two distinct gameplay styles ensures that the experience remains fresh and engaging from start to finish. However, it doesn't quite reach the heights of the top titles on this list due to its somewhat linear structure in Super Mario 3D World and the occasional repetitive nature of Bowser's Fury.

Number 4: Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle

Next up is Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle, a surprising and delightful crossover that combines the world of Mario with the wacky Rabbids from Ubisoft. This game is a turn-based strategy title, where players control a team of heroes as they battle enemies and solve puzzles. The gameplay is surprisingly deep and strategic, with a variety of characters, weapons, and abilities to master. Mario and his friends team up with the Rabbids to restore order to the Mushroom Kingdom after a mysterious vortex throws everything into chaos. The unlikely alliance between these two iconic franchises creates a unique and humorous dynamic that adds to the game's charm. What sets Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle apart from other strategy games is its accessibility. The game is designed to be easy to pick up and play, with intuitive controls and clear tutorials. However, there's still plenty of depth for more experienced players to sink their teeth into, with challenging battles and complex strategies to discover. The game also features a robust co-op mode, where two players can team up to tackle specially designed challenges. The combination of tactical gameplay, charming characters, and a humorous story makes Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle a truly unique and memorable experience. While it may not be a traditional Mario platformer, its innovative gameplay and clever design earn it a well-deserved spot on this list. The turn-based strategy mechanics provide a refreshing twist on the Mario formula, making it a must-play for fans of both franchises.

Number 3: Super Mario Maker 2

Taking the bronze medal is Super Mario Maker 2, a game that puts the power of level design directly into your hands. This title allows you to create, share, and play an endless variety of Mario levels, using a wide range of tools and assets from different eras of the franchise. Whether you're a seasoned level designer or a complete beginner, Super Mario Maker 2 has something to offer. The game features an intuitive editor that makes it easy to create levels of any complexity. 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 visual style and gameplay mechanics. The possibilities are endless. You can create classic platforming challenges, intricate puzzle levels, or even completely bizarre and experimental stages. The online community is a huge part of what makes Super Mario Maker 2 so special. Players from all over the world can share their creations, allowing you to play an endless stream of new and exciting levels. The game also features a robust search and filtering system, making it easy to find levels that match your specific tastes. The depth and breadth of content available in Super Mario Maker 2 is simply staggering. With millions of levels to choose from, you could spend years exploring the game and still not see everything it has to offer. Its a game that truly celebrates the creativity and ingenuity of the Mario fanbase, making it a must-have for any fan of the franchise. However, the lack of a cohesive single-player experience prevents it from climbing higher on this list.

Number 2: New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe

Just missing out on the top spot is New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe. This game is a classic 2D Mario platformer that offers a perfect blend of traditional gameplay and modern design. It's a polished and refined experience that's sure to please fans of the genre. The gameplay in New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is tight and responsive, with precise controls and satisfying movement mechanics. The level design is excellent, with a variety of creative and challenging environments to explore. The game also features a robust multiplayer mode, where up to four players can team up to tackle the levels together. The chaotic and unpredictable nature of multiplayer adds a whole new dimension to the gameplay, making it a blast to play with friends and family. One of the key features of New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is its accessibility. The game is easy to pick up and play, with intuitive controls and a gentle learning curve. However, there's still plenty of depth for more experienced players to sink their teeth into, with challenging levels and hidden secrets to discover. The game also includes the New Super Luigi U expansion, which offers a more challenging and fast-paced experience. The combination of classic gameplay, excellent level design, and robust multiplayer makes New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe a must-have for any fan of 2D Mario platformers. While it doesn't quite reach the same level of innovation as the number one game on this list, its polish and refinement make it a truly exceptional title. It's a game that's both nostalgic and fresh, offering a perfect blend of old and new.

Number 1: Super Mario Odyssey

And finally, taking the crown as the best Mario game on the Nintendo Switch is none other than Super Mario Odyssey! This game is a masterpiece of 3D platforming, offering a breathtakingly creative and endlessly inventive experience. It's a game that constantly surprises and delights, with new ideas and mechanics introduced at every turn. The gameplay in Super Mario Odyssey is centered around Cappy, a sentient hat that allows Mario to capture and control a wide variety of enemies and objects. This mechanic opens up a world of possibilities, allowing Mario to transform into everything from a Goomba to a T-Rex. Each capture has its unique abilities and movement mechanics, adding a huge amount of variety to the gameplay. The level design in Super Mario Odyssey is simply stunning. Each kingdom is a vast and sprawling sandbox, filled with secrets to discover and challenges to overcome. The game encourages exploration and experimentation, rewarding players for venturing off the beaten path. The sheer amount of content packed into Super Mario Odyssey is staggering. There are hundreds of Power Moons to collect, each hidden in a unique and challenging location. The game also features a robust post-game, with new challenges and secrets to uncover. Super Mario Odyssey is a game that truly embodies the spirit of Mario. It's a celebration of creativity, imagination, and pure, unadulterated fun. It’s a must-play for any Nintendo Switch owner and a shining example of what the platforming genre can achieve. Its innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and sheer amount of content make it the undisputed king of Mario games on the Switch. If you only play one Mario game on the Nintendo Switch, make it this one!

Honorable Mentions

Before we wrap up, I want to give a quick shout-out to a few other Mario games on the Nintendo Switch that didn't quite make the top five but are still worth checking out:

  • Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: The definitive version of Mario Kart 8, with all the DLC included and a revamped battle mode.
  • Super Mario Party: A fun party game that's perfect for playing with friends and family.
  • Mario Tennis Aces: A fast-paced and arcade-style tennis game featuring the Mario characters.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, my ranking of the best Mario games on the Nintendo Switch! I hope this guide has helped you decide which games to pick up and play. Whether you're a long-time fan of the franchise or a newcomer looking to experience the magic of Mario for the first time, the Nintendo Switch has something to offer everyone. Now go out there and start your own Mario adventure!