The 10 Best Mario Games (That you can play on your Switch!)

Mario is without a doubt, one of the most iconic, and most recognised video game characters that have seemed to appeal to generations throughout time. There’s no doubt his popularity is due to the fact that the vast majority of Mario Titles are simply incredible games that bring gamers together, or unless you’re playing Smash Bros or Mario Kart, then they can ruin friendships. There are so many Mario games available on the Nintendo Switch, bolstered by the Nintendo Switch Online platform, so I thought I would compile a peer-reviewed top 10 list. I know there will be disagreements here, so don’t be shy and let me know what you would change. How does your favorite Mario Switch Title stack up? Grab your denim denim denim, pack a wrench, and avoid the blue shells as we take a look at The 10 Best Mario Games (That you can play on your Switch!)

Mario Bros NES

It may be sacrilegious to have this at the number 10 spot, as there’s no denying the NES debut of the Mario Bros is where Mario’s popularity began, but the series has evolved so much since 1986. The original NES game introduced a generation of gamers (myself included) to amazing platforming, difficult underwater levels, and of course, princesses being in another castle. Thanks to NSO, you can now play the game that started it all with a few modern conveniences like save points, meaning I could finally finish the game that bested me many, many years ago.

Mario World SNES

An improvement on the original foundations of Mario 1 and 3 in every way. Mario World introduced the overworld map, Yoshi, and a bevy of new and interesting characters into the world of Super Mario. I have spent a bit of time on this one on Switch as I never had a Super NES growing up but could imagine the kid version of me never leaving the house if I had it when I was younger. There’s something special about how it all works, with unique and varied worlds and levels to explore. This one is an essential that you must try out on NSO.

Mario Sunshine

This entry might ruffle some feathers as you either loved Mario Sunshine or absolutely hated it. Mario Sunshine was unique in the sense you had Fludd, a sentient jetpack/water sprayer that accompanied you to give Mario a range of abilities beyond his normal scope. There were some jarring sections when Fludd was taken away that made the game have a hard difficulty curve, but gamers who stuck around were treated to a wet and wonderful adventure on Isle Delphino. Mario Sunshine is a part of the limited Super Mario All-Stars compilation, which is quite hard to get these days. Here’s hoping they bring it back next year for the March 10 (Mar10) Mario Day.

Mario 3D World + Bowsers Fury

This might be cheating as it’s 2 titles, but Mario 3D World and Bowser’s Fury was a phenomenal package featuring the Wii U flagship Mario Title, and then Bowser’s Fury which many see as a somewhat sequel to Sunshine which had never been released. Bowsers Fury in Particular departed from the norm by having a singular open world to explore while you fend off Giga-Bowser and his unstoppable rage. 3D World featured incredible set pieces and level design which gelled so well with its 4-player co-op, landing this collection on the list.

Super Mario RPG

I recently had the delight of reviewing this amazing title and found it to be a heartwarming and enjoyable adventure that made me smile along the way. Super Mario RPG is a remake of the SNES game that I’ve been told never hit Australian shores on release. Thankfully, this remake is a fantastic tribute to the source material while meticulously rebuilding the game from the ground up to feature a lot of quality-of-life improvements, gorgeous visuals, and some unexpected cameos. Super Mario RPG is a great introduction to the RPG genre, or simply a great RPG for fans of both Mario and Final Fantasy.

Mario Galaxy

The Wii took over the world and introduced casual gaming to the masses. One of the standout titles out of the Wii’s impressive library was both Mario Galaxy games. Unfortunately, Switch owners can’t play Mario Galaxy 2, but those fortunate enough to have the Mario All-Stars collection will be able to play the Original Mario Galaxy, a mind-bending, galaxy-traveling 3D platforming experience that took Mario’s adventures to the next level. The game introduced fan-favorite character Rosalina, who helps Mario collect power stars across the galaxy to restore power to the Grand Star. The game was grand on ambition and scale, and if you can track down a copy, it’s well worth the price of entry.

Mario Kart 8

Mario Kart 8 originally started life on the Wii U, and was then re-released on the Switch with all DLC (including Link and Hyrule castle as a character and track. To make things even better, Mario Kart 8 further saw stellar support thanks to the Course Booster Pass which saw a whopping 48 new courses added to the game (all of which are now available) and 8 additional characters. The game has been a staple multiplayer game on Nintendo Consoles since the Super NES (which you can also play, including the N64 version thanks to NSO) and this entry is hands down the most comprehensive Mario Kart Title, featuring remastered courses from previous titles, as well as a host of online services that are still very active to this day.

Super Mario Wonder

A podium finish for Super Mario Wonder on this list. Super Mario Wonder is a perfect example of relaxed deadlines and freedom of creativity leads to better games. Mario Wonder managed to take risks, while still sticking to the tried and true formula of the 2D Mario Entries. The game features a psychedelic, almost Dr. Strange feel, thanks to the inclusion of Wonder Flowers, turning the levels and gameplay on its head. The game also was a step up in challenge, and online features, allowing other players to have limited interaction with you by reviving you should you be defeated. The game also featured incredible animations, enhancing Mario and friends’ personalities, as well as giving the bad guys some time to shine too!

Mario 64

One of the first 3D platformers to come out back in the day, and the first to utilize the analog stick on the coveted N64 controller. Mario 64 was a masterclass in game design and still holds up to this day. Mario 64 brought the mushroom kingdom to life featuring an epic soundtrack, detailed and varied courses, and plenty of gameplay to keep you busy. The game had so many secrets and stars to collect, as well as discoveries to be made as you explore Peach’s castle, sometimes stumbling on a new course. As a kid, I spent so many hours on this game in awe of the scale and scope of the game. Players who managed to discover 120 stars were treated with a surprise cameo on the castle roof, reuniting some old friends.

Mario Odessey

I mean, it just had to be right? Mario Odessey is a phenomenal game, pushing the Switch to its limits in visual design and scope. The key to Mario Odesseys’ success was the sheer amount of things to discover, as well as the unique ability to possess enemies thanks to your new friend Cappy. The game had epic boss battles, a huge sense of scale for levels, and I still can’t shake Mayor Pauline’s hit song out of my head. Mario Odessey is the peak of 3D Mario Platforming, offering something for more casual gamers on one hand, and plenty of secrets and challenges for the more experienced gamer on the other. Mario Odessey took players across the globe on an epic whirlwind adventure featuring Dinosaurs, Dragons, and a bonkers finale!

How did I go? Do you agree with my list? Let me know what Mario game you think deserved the top spot, or if one didn’t make the list you think should have. Let’s remember Toad’s wise words that “Everyone deserves to shine” and keep that great Nintendo community spirit by encouraging polite and open discussions!