Best Mario Games for Every Generation

Since his debut in 1981, Mario, the famous Nintendo plumber, has been synonymous with fun, innovation, and creativity. For over four decades, the Super Mario Bros saga has redefined platforming video games, setting standards that inspired the entire video game industry.This article provides an in-depth analysis of the best Super Mario games, highlighting their technical contributions, gameplay, level design, and cultural impact.

What is the best Super Mario game of all time?

Answering this question isn’t easy. Each Super Mario game has its own charm, depending on the generation, the console, and the gameplay experience. However, some titles have left their mark due to their innovation, graphics, or mechanics.

Critics and players often agree that Super Mario Odyssey, Super Mario Galaxy 2, and Super Mario World are among the best. But to understand why, we must trace their evolution from the 2D beginnings to the 3D open worlds.

Super Mario Bros: The Game That Changed Everything

Released in 1985 for the NES, Super Mario Bros is considered the most influential game in history, setting the standard for future platformers. Its simple yet perfect design marked the birth of the modern platforming genre. The player controls Mario as he rescues Princess Peach from the evil Bowser, traversing eight worlds filled with enemies, secrets, and challenges.

Key Innovations:

Introduction of smooth side-scrolling.
Levels designed with a natural learning curve.
The foundation of the Mario universe that still endures today.

Super Mario World: The Super Nintendo’s Jewel

In 1990, Super Mario World brought the series to the Super Nintendo, expanding the limits of 2D in platforming games. It introduced Yoshi, new power-ups, and a world map full of secrets.

Highlights:

Over 70 interconnected levels.
Introduction of alternate exits and hidden worlds.
A colorful visual style that remains iconic.

Many consider it the best 2D Mario game for its balance between difficulty and fun.

Super Mario 64: The 3D Leap That Revolutionized Video Games

With the launch of the Nintendo 64, Super Mario 64 arrived, the plumber’s first major 3D game. Its camera system, freedom of movement, and non-linear design marked a before and after.

Innovative Aspects:

Open world with multiple missions.
Precise analog control.
Fluid gameplay and total exploration.
It was the first game where the team used a free camera, before Zelda.

It was the foundation for all subsequent 3D Mario games.

Super Mario Sunshine: The Tropical Adventure on GameCube

Released in 2002, Super Mario Sunshine opted for a summer setting on Isle Delfino. Equipped with the FLUDD water pack, Mario had to clean up the pollution and restore peace.

Key Differences:

A more narrative-driven style.
Unique cleaning mechanics.
Bright environments with great attention to detail.

Although it was divisive among fans, it’s an experimental game that pushed the character’s boundaries.

Super Mario Galaxy: The Cosmic Masterpiece on Wii

In 2007, Super Mario Galaxy took the hero to the stars. With its innovative gravity system, spectacular graphics, and orchestral soundtrack, it was a milestone in Nintendo’s history.

Why It Stands Out:

Unprecedented 3D level design.
Intuitive gameplay with the Wii Remote.
An almost cinematic experience.

It won over 100 awards and is considered one of the best video games of all time.

Super Mario Galaxy 2: Perfection in the Stars

A direct sequel to the previous one, Super Mario Galaxy 2 (2010) improved on everything its predecessor already did well. More levels, new transformations, and more precise challenges.

Critics called it “the perfection of the Mario formula.” Its balance of creativity and challenge keeps it relevant more than a decade later.

Super Mario 3D World: Cooperative Fun on Nintendo Switch

Originally for Wii U and re-released on Nintendo Switch, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury combines the best of 2D and 3D with cooperative multiplayer.

Advantages:

Up to 4 simultaneous players.
New transformations like the Cat Suit.
Level design ideal for group play.

Super Mario Odyssey: The Plumber’s Definitive Experience

Considered by many to be the best modern Mario game, Super Mario Odyssey (2017) offers open worlds, limitless creativity, and refined gameplay.

What’s New:

Capture mechanic with Cappy.
Huge interconnected worlds.
Total exploration and freedom.

It won “Game of the Year” awards and solidified Mario’s position on the Nintendo Switch.

New Super Mario Bros: The Rebirth of Classic 2D

In 2006, Nintendo surprised everyone with the return of classic Mario in New Super Mario Bros for the Nintendo DS. The title brought back traditional 2D gameplay, but with modern graphics, new items, and dynamic levels. It sold over 30 million copies, solidifying its formula.

Key Elements:

Levels designed with pinpoint precision.
Competitive and cooperative multiplayer.
Inspiration from the original Super Mario, but with modern innovation.

This game rekindled the love for the 2D platforming style, laying the groundwork for future installments on Wii, Wii U, and Switch.

Super Mario Maker 2: Create Your Own Mario Game

Released for Nintendo Switch, Super Mario Maker 2 allows players to create, share, and play custom levels. It’s a tribute to level design and the fan community.

Highlights:

Modes based on Super Mario Bros, Super Mario World, and Super Mario 3D World.
Advanced creation tools.
A story mode with original Nintendo-made levels.

The game turned millions of users into designers, expanding the Mario universe with infinite creativity.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: The Most Successful Spin-Off

Although it doesn’t belong to the main platforming series, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is essential to the franchise. Its addictive gameplay, colorful tracks, and multiplayer support made it one of the best-selling titles on the Nintendo Switch.

Relevant Facts:

48 tracks and over 40 characters.
Classic battle mode and online compatibility.
Innovations in anti-gravity driving.

The balance between accessibility and depth makes it ideal for both beginners and expert players.

Mario Wonder and the Future of Super Mario Games

Super Mario Bros. Wonder, released in 2023 for Nintendo Switch, represents a new era for 2D Mario games. It introduces surprising mechanics, renewed animations, and dynamic levels that change with the Wonder Flowers.

Key New Features:

Fluid local co-op.
Brand-new transformations like Elephant Mario.
A more expressive and organic art style.

This title proves that Nintendo continues to reinvent its formula without losing the essence of the most famous character in video games.

Analysis: The Keys to the Super Mario Franchise’s Success

The continued success of Super Mario isn’t just based on nostalgia. Each installment brings innovation, technical quality, and polished gameplay.

Success Factors:

Intelligent level design: a natural progression that teaches without words.
Clear and accessible mechanics: easy to understand, hard to master.
Constant creativity: every game brings something new.
Emotional connection: Mario is a universal symbol of joy.
Nintendo ecosystem: optimization for each console and a loyal community.

The series has sold over 400 million copies in total, making it the most successful in history.

Final Ranking: The 10 Best Super Mario Games

Rank	Title	Console	Year	Reason for Choice
1	Super Mario Odyssey	Nintendo Switch	2017	Total freedom and limitless creativity
2	Super Mario Galaxy 2	Wii	2010	Perfect design and polished gameplay
3	Super Mario World	Super Nintendo	1990	2D icon and masterful balance
4	Super Mario 64	Nintendo 64	1996	The 3D revolution
5	Super Mario Bros	NES	1985	Foundation of the platforming genre
6	Super Mario 3D World	Switch	2021	Cooperative fun and Bowser’s Fury
7	Super Mario Galaxy	Wii	2007	Spatial innovation and epic soundtrack
8	New Super Mario Bros	DS	2006	Rebirth of the classic 2D style
9	Super Mario Sunshine	GameCube	2002	Summer adventure and environmental creativity
10	Super Mario Wonder	Switch	2023	Modern 2D innovation with charisma

Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Super Mario Games

1. What is the best Mario game of all time? Most critics agree that Super Mario Odyssey combines the best of classic design and modern freedom.

2. What was the first Super Mario game? The first title was Super Mario Bros in 1985 for the NES, although Mario appeared earlier in Donkey Kong (1981).

3. Which Mario game is the best-selling? Super Mario Bros is still the best-selling, with over 40 million copies, followed by Super Mario Odyssey.

4. What are the differences between 2D and 3D games? The main series are divided between 2D classics like Super Mario World and 3D ones like Super Mario Galaxy and Odyssey.

5. What is the most difficult Mario game? Many players mention Super Mario Lost Levels or the custom levels in Super Mario Maker 2.

6. What new features does Super Mario Wonder have? It introduces new transformations, changing levels, and more expressive animations.

Conclusion: The Eternal Legacy of Mario at Nintendo

Mario is not just a character; he is a universal symbol of video games. From his 8-bit debut to his cosmic adventures, every Super Mario game has proven that fun and innovation can coexist. Nintendo has known how to keep the magic alive for over 35 years, delivering unforgettable experiences for all generations.

The best Super Mario game depends on each player, but his adventurous spirit remains the same: jump, explore, and enjoy. As Shigeru Miyamoto said:

“As long as there is joy in playing, Mario will continue to exist.”

Why Play Super Mario on an Arcade Machine?

The best 2D Mario games —such as Super Mario Bros, Super Mario World and New Super Mario Bros— are exceptionally enjoyable on an arcade machine or bartop. Physical joystick and button controls provide millimetre-precision for jumps and platform runs.

In addition, titles like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Super Mario 3D World allow up to 4 simultaneous players, making a 4-player arcade pedestal the perfect choice for multiplayer sessions with family or friends. RetroBat or Pandora Box systems include most of these titles ready to play.

Advantages of the Bartop or Pedestal for Playing Mario

Physical controls: arcade joystick and Sanwa buttons for precise 2D platformer response.
Real multiplayer: up to 4 players on an arcade pedestal with a large screen and independent controllers.
RetroBat included: the complete Mario saga available from the first power-on.
Themed vinyls: decorate your bartop or pedestal with exclusive Mario designs.

At OmniRetro, we manufacture 4-player arcade pedestals, bartop kits and decorative vinyls so you can enjoy Mario with the authentic arcade experience at home.

🔗 Recommended External Link:

For more information on Mario titles, visit the official Nintendo website

Want an arcade machine with all these games?

At OmniRetro you will find complete arcade machines with Pandora Box, ready to play from the first minute. Discover our finished arcades

Videogames

Best Mario Game: Ranking the Best Super Mario Games of All Time

Introduction: The Legacy of Nintendo’s Plumber