Mario Games In Order: A Complete Playthrough Guide

So, you wanna dive headfirst into the Mushroom Kingdom and experience every amazing Mario game in order, huh? Well, buckle up, my friend, because you're in for one wild ride! From the classic 2D platformers that started it all to the sprawling 3D adventures that redefined the genre, we're going to walk through every mainline Mario game in chronological order. This isn't just a list; it's your ultimate guide to experiencing the evolution of one of gaming's most iconic characters.

Why Play Mario Games in Order?

You might be wondering, "Why bother playing them in order? Can't I just jump into Super Mario Odyssey and call it a day?" Sure, you could, but you'd be missing out on so much! Playing the Mario games in order allows you to appreciate the gradual improvements in gameplay, graphics, and storytelling. You get to see how Nintendo's vision for Mario evolved over time, and you'll gain a deeper understanding of the character and his world. Plus, it's just a ton of fun to see how far the series has come! Think of it like watching a TV show from the very first episode; you'll catch references and appreciate nuances that you'd otherwise miss. You will appreciate more each game as you can see the mechanics and innovations that where implemented in each iteration of the game, understanding the history behind each title will give you a special perspective as a gamer. In many cases, understanding the context behind each game will allow you to appreciate more how the industry has evolved and the risks that Nintendo took with the franchise.

The Complete Mario Game List in Order

Alright, let's get down to business! Here's a comprehensive list of the mainline Mario games in chronological order, along with the release platform and a brief description to get you hyped. Get ready to jump, stomp, and collect those coins!

1. Donkey Kong (Arcade, 1981)

Okay, technically, this isn't a Mario game, but it's where our hero made his debut! Originally known as "Jumpman," Mario has to rescue Pauline from the clutches of Donkey Kong. It's a simple but addictive arcade game that laid the foundation for everything that followed. The game is considered the first platform game and it had a significant impact in the arcade scene, creating a formula that many developers would follow. The success of the game allowed Nintendo to stablish itself in the US market, being the beginning of a long and fruitful history.

2. Mario Bros. (Arcade, 1983)

Now we're talking! Mario Bros. introduced Luigi and the now-iconic pipe-filled sewers. This is a cooperative (or competitive, depending on your friendship level) arcade game where you and a buddy clear out enemies from the sewers. Classic gameplay and a whole lot of fun! The game introduced the concept of the "turtle shell" which would become a staple in the franchise. The game was not as successful as Donkey Kong, but it helped to cement the Mario Bros. as a brand and introduce the universe to new characters.

3. Super Mario Bros. (NES, 1985)

This is the big one, guys! Super Mario Bros. revolutionized the gaming world and set the standard for platformers. From the catchy music to the ingenious level design, everything about this game is iconic. Save Princess Peach from Bowser and experience gaming history! The game sold over 40 million copies worldwide, becoming the best-selling game of its time and helping to popularize the NES console. The game introduced many of the elements that would become staples of the franchise, such as the power-ups, the enemies, and the overall structure of the levels.

4. Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels (Famicom, 1986)

Known as Super Mario Bros. 2 in Japan, this game is essentially a much harder version of the original. It wasn't initially released in the West due to its difficulty, but it eventually made its way over as part of Super Mario All-Stars. Be prepared for a challenge! The game is notorious for its difficulty, featuring more complex level designs, trickier enemy placements, and the introduction of poison mushrooms that harm Mario.

5. Super Mario Bros. 2 (NES, 1988)

This one's a bit of an oddball. Originally released as Yume Kōjō: Doki Doki Panic in Japan, it was reskinned as a Mario game for Western audiences. You can play as Mario, Luigi, Peach, or Toad, each with their own unique abilities. It's a unique and fun entry in the series! The game introduced new gameplay mechanics such as picking up and throwing enemies, and a focus on vertical level design.

6. Super Mario Bros. 3 (NES, 1988)

Many consider this to be one of the greatest video games of all time. Super Mario Bros. 3 introduced a world map, new power-ups like the Super Leaf and Tanooki Suit, and a ton of creative levels. It's a must-play for any Mario fan. The game is praised for its level design, its variety of power-ups, and its overall polish. It sold over 18 million copies worldwide, becoming one of the best-selling games on the NES.

7. Super Mario Land (Game Boy, 1989)

Mario's first handheld adventure! Super Mario Land takes place in Sarasaland and introduces Princess Daisy. It's a simplified Mario experience, but still incredibly fun and charming. The game introduced new enemies and power-ups specific to the handheld format, and featured a unique visual style due to the limitations of the Game Boy's screen.

8. Super Mario World (SNES, 1990)

Launching alongside the Super Nintendo, Super Mario World introduced Yoshi and a whole new level of graphical fidelity. The levels are expansive, the gameplay is polished to perfection, and it's just an all-around masterpiece. Another essential Mario title! The game is praised for its level design, its introduction of Yoshi, and its overall polish. It sold over 20 million copies worldwide, becoming one of the best-selling games on the SNES.

9. Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins (Game Boy, 1992)

This Game Boy sequel introduced Wario, Mario's rival! Super Mario Land 2 features a larger world, more varied levels, and a surprising amount of depth for a handheld game. It's a fantastic addition to the Mario canon. The game introduced new power-ups and a more complex level design compared to its predecessor.

10. Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island (SNES, 1995)

While Mario is in the title, you actually play as Yoshi in this prequel adventure. Yoshi's Island features a unique art style, innovative gameplay mechanics, and a charming story. It's a must-play for Yoshi fans! The game is praised for its art style, its innovative gameplay mechanics, and its overall charm. It introduced the concept of Yoshi carrying Baby Mario and protecting him from enemies.

11. Super Mario 64 (N64, 1996)

This game changed everything. Super Mario 64 brought Mario into the 3D world, and it did so flawlessly. Explore Peach's castle, collect stars, and experience the freedom of movement that defined a generation of 3D platformers. A landmark title! The game is praised for its innovative 3D gameplay, its level design, and its overall polish. It sold over 11 million copies worldwide, becoming one of the best-selling games on the Nintendo 64.

12. Super Mario Sunshine (GameCube, 2002)

Set on the tropical Isle Delfino, Super Mario Sunshine introduces FLUDD, a water-spraying device that adds a new dimension to Mario's moveset. It's a bright, colorful, and unique entry in the series. The game is known for its tropical setting, its use of FLUDD, and its challenging gameplay. While initially divisive, it has gained a cult following over the years.

13. New Super Mario Bros. (DS, 2006)

A return to the 2D side-scrolling gameplay of the classic NES games, New Super Mario Bros. brought Mario to the Nintendo DS. It features updated graphics, new power-ups, and plenty of multiplayer fun. The game introduced the Mega Mushroom and the Mini Mushroom, adding new gameplay possibilities to the classic formula. It sold over 30 million copies worldwide, becoming one of the best-selling games on the Nintendo DS.

14. Super Mario Galaxy (Wii, 2007)

Prepare to have your mind blown! Super Mario Galaxy takes Mario to outer space, with levels set on a variety of gravity-defying planets. It's a visually stunning and incredibly creative game that's considered one of the best on the Wii. The game is praised for its innovative level design, its stunning visuals, and its use of the Wii's motion controls. It sold over 12 million copies worldwide, becoming one of the best-selling games on the Wii.

15. New Super Mario Bros. Wii (Wii, 2009)

Bringing the New Super Mario Bros. formula to the Wii, this game introduced four-player simultaneous play. It's chaotic, hilarious, and a ton of fun with friends. New Super Mario Bros. Wii is a great party game! The game introduced new power-ups such as the Propeller Mushroom and the Penguin Suit, adding new gameplay possibilities to the multiplayer experience. It sold over 30 million copies worldwide, becoming one of the best-selling games on the Wii.

16. Super Mario Galaxy 2 (Wii, 2010)

A direct sequel to the original, Super Mario Galaxy 2 expands on the gameplay mechanics and introduces new galaxies to explore. It's even more creative and challenging than its predecessor. Another Wii must-have! The game is praised for its level design, its variety of galaxies, and its overall polish. It introduced Yoshi as a playable character in certain levels.

17. Super Mario 3D Land (3DS, 2011)

Blending the 2D and 3D gameplay styles, Super Mario 3D Land brought Mario to the Nintendo 3DS with stunning visuals and cleverly designed levels. It's a fantastic handheld experience. The game introduced the Boomerang Suit and the Statue Leaf, adding new gameplay possibilities to the 3D platforming formula. It sold over 12 million copies worldwide, becoming one of the best-selling games on the Nintendo 3DS.

18. New Super Mario Bros. 2 (3DS, 2012)

This 3DS title focuses on collecting coins, with a ridiculous amount of gold to be found in every level. New Super Mario Bros. 2 is a fun and addictive platformer, perfect for handheld play. The game is focused on collecting coins, with a counter that keeps track of the total number of coins collected throughout the game. It introduced the Gold Flower, which allows Mario to shoot gold fireballs that turn enemies into coins.

19. Super Mario 3D World (Wii U, 2013)

Featuring four-player cooperative play and a delightful cat suit power-up, Super Mario 3D World is a fantastic multiplayer experience. It's colorful, creative, and a ton of fun with friends. The game introduced the Cat Suit, which allows Mario and his friends to climb walls and pounce on enemies. It is considered one of the best games on the Wii U.

20. Super Mario Maker (Wii U, 2015)

Unleash your inner game designer! Super Mario Maker allows you to create your own Mario levels and share them with the world. It's a constantly evolving and endlessly entertaining experience. The game allows players to create their own Mario levels using a variety of tools and assets from different Mario games. It is a celebration of the Mario franchise and a testament to its enduring popularity.

21. Super Mario Run (iOS/Android, 2016)

Mario's first official foray into the mobile gaming world! Super Mario Run is an auto-runner that's designed for one-handed play. It's a simplified Mario experience, but still fun and addictive. The game is designed for one-handed play, with Mario automatically running from left to right. It introduced new gameplay mechanics such as stylish jumps and wall jumps.

22. Super Mario Odyssey (Switch, 2017)

A return to the open-world exploration of Super Mario 64 and Super Mario Sunshine, Super Mario Odyssey is a masterpiece. With Cappy, Mario can capture enemies and objects, adding a new layer of gameplay possibilities. It's a must-play for any Switch owner. The game is praised for its open-world exploration, its innovative use of Cappy, and its overall polish. It sold over 20 million copies worldwide, becoming one of the best-selling games on the Nintendo Switch.

23. Super Mario Maker 2 (Switch, 2019)

The sequel to Super Mario Maker, this Switch title expands on the original with new tools, themes, and a story mode. Super Mario Maker 2 is the ultimate Mario creation tool. The game introduced new tools and assets from Super Mario 3D World, as well as a story mode with over 100 Nintendo-designed courses.

So, What Are You Waiting For?

There you have it, guys! Every mainline Mario game in order, ready for you to conquer. So grab your console of choice, dust off your jumping skills, and get ready to embark on an epic adventure through the Mushroom Kingdom. You'll laugh, you'll cry (probably from the Lost Levels), and you'll gain a newfound appreciation for the legendary Mario franchise. Happy gaming!