Top Mario Games To Play On Nintendo Switch
Hey guys! If you're looking to dive into the world of Mario on your Nintendo Switch, you're in for a treat. The Switch has become a fantastic home for both classic and brand-new Mario adventures. But with so many options, figuring out the best Mario game to start with can be a bit overwhelming. No worries, I'm here to help you navigate through the Mushroom Kingdom and find the perfect title for you. So, let's jump right into it and explore the amazing Mario games available on the Nintendo Switch!
Super Mario Odyssey
Okay, let's kick things off with what many consider a true masterpiece: Super Mario Odyssey. Seriously, if you only play one Mario game on the Switch, there’s a strong case to be made that this should be it. Super Mario Odyssey isn't just a game; it's an experience. It's like Nintendo took all the best parts of Mario's 3D adventures and blended them into one incredibly polished and endlessly charming package. The game just oozes creativity, and you'll constantly find yourself surprised and delighted by the sheer variety of things to do.
What makes Super Mario Odyssey so special? Well, for starters, there's Cappy. This magical hat isn't just a fashion statement; it's a game-changer. Cappy allows Mario to "capture" enemies, objects, and even NPCs, essentially letting you control them and use their unique abilities. Want to be a Goomba? Boom, you're a Goomba, stacking yourself on top of other Goombas to reach new heights. Fancy being a T-Rex? You got it! The possibilities are genuinely mind-blowing, and it opens up all sorts of creative solutions to puzzles and challenges.
Then there are the worlds themselves. Forget the same old grassy plains and lava-filled castles (though there's a bit of that too, of course!). Super Mario Odyssey takes you to some truly bizarre and wonderful places. From the bustling Metro Kingdom, complete with its own New Donk City, to the Luncheon Kingdom, where everything is made of food, each world is bursting with personality and secrets. You'll want to explore every nook and cranny to uncover all the Power Moons hidden throughout each kingdom. And trust me, there are tons of them.
The story is classic Mario – Bowser's up to no good, and it's up to Mario to save Princess Peach – but it's really just a backdrop for the incredible gameplay and exploration. The controls are tight and responsive, making Mario feel better than ever to control. Whether you're jumping, diving, or capturing, everything feels smooth and intuitive.
And let's not forget the post-game content. Even after you've finished the main story, there's still plenty to do in Super Mario Odyssey. New challenges unlock, new areas become accessible, and there are even more Power Moons to collect. You could easily spend hundreds of hours exploring everything this game has to offer. Honestly, Super Mario Odyssey is a game that will stay with you long after you've finished playing. It's a joyful, creative, and utterly unforgettable experience that deserves a spot in every Switch owner's library.
Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury
Next up, we have Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury, which is basically two awesome games in one package. Super Mario 3D World was originally released on the Wii U, but it's found a new life on the Switch, and for good reason. It's a fantastic multiplayer experience that's perfect for playing with friends and family. Bowser's Fury, on the other hand, is a completely new adventure that's unlike anything we've seen in a Mario game before.
Super Mario 3D World is a 3D platformer in the style of Super Mario Bros., meaning it's more linear and level-based than something like Super Mario Odyssey. But don't let that fool you – it's still packed with tons of creativity and fun. You can play as Mario, Luigi, Peach, or Toad, each with their own unique abilities. Mario is the all-arounder, Luigi jumps higher, Peach can float, and Toad is the fastest. Playing with friends is where Super Mario 3D World truly shines. The chaotic fun of bouncing off each other, competing for power-ups, and trying to reach the flagpole first is simply unmatched. It’s the perfect game for a party night or a family gathering.
The level design in Super Mario 3D World is top-notch. Each level is filled with clever challenges, hidden secrets, and memorable moments. The power-ups are also fantastic, especially the Super Bell, which transforms you into a cat. Cat Mario can climb walls, pounce on enemies, and generally be adorable. There are also Double Cherries that duplicate your character, allowing you to control multiple Marios, Luigis, Peaches, or Toads at the same time. Seriously, things can get pretty crazy. And the music? Oh man, the music is so catchy and upbeat. You'll be humming these tunes for days after you play.
Now, let's talk about Bowser's Fury. This is a completely different beast. It's an open-world adventure where you explore a series of islands in Lake Lapcat. The goal is to team up with Bowser Jr. to stop his dad, Bowser, who has transformed into a giant, rage-filled monster known as Fury Bowser. Bowser's Fury is a really interesting experiment for Nintendo. It combines the classic Mario platforming with an open-world structure, and it works surprisingly well. Exploring the islands, collecting Cat Shines, and battling Fury Bowser is a blast. Fury Bowser appears periodically, unleashing a fiery storm upon the land. You'll have to use the Super Bell to transform into Giga Cat Mario and take him down. It's an epic showdown that's both challenging and incredibly satisfying.
Together, Super Mario 3D World and Bowser's Fury offer a ton of content and variety. Whether you're looking for a fun multiplayer experience or a unique open-world adventure, this package has something for everyone. It's another must-have for any Switch owner.
Super Mario Maker 2
Alright, let's switch gears a bit and talk about Super Mario Maker 2. This isn't your typical Mario adventure; it's more like a Mario construction kit. It's a game that lets you unleash your creativity and build your own Mario levels. And I'm not just talking about simple levels, guys. You can create some seriously insane and challenging courses that will test the skills of even the most seasoned Mario players. Super Mario Maker 2 is the ultimate tool for Mario fans who want to express their creativity and share their creations with the world.
The level editor in Super Mario Maker 2 is incredibly intuitive and easy to use. You can drag and drop blocks, enemies, and other objects onto the screen to create your dream level. The game features a huge library of assets from different Mario games, including Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros. 3, Super Mario World, New Super Mario Bros. U, and even Super Mario 3D World. This means you can create levels in a variety of different styles, each with its own unique look and feel.
But Super Mario Maker 2 isn't just about building levels; it's also about playing them. The game features a robust online community where you can share your creations and play levels created by other players. There are millions of levels to choose from, ranging from easy and accessible to incredibly difficult and complex. You can search for levels based on difficulty, style, and other criteria. You can also follow your favorite creators and get notified when they upload new levels. It's a never-ending stream of Mario content that will keep you entertained for hours on end. Seriously, there's always something new to discover.
Super Mario Maker 2 also has a Story Mode, which is a series of pre-made levels that you can play to earn coins. These coins can be used to rebuild Princess Peach's castle. The Story Mode is a great way to learn the basics of level design and get inspired to create your own levels. It also features some really creative and challenging levels that are well worth playing.
Whether you're a seasoned Mario player or a complete newbie, Super Mario Maker 2 has something to offer. It's a game that encourages creativity, experimentation, and community. If you've ever dreamed of creating your own Mario levels, this is the game for you. It's a must-have for any Switch owner who loves Mario.
New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe
Let's talk about New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe. This game is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a classic 2D Mario experience with a modern twist. Originally released on the Wii U, this deluxe version includes both New Super Mario Bros. U and New Super Luigi U, offering a ton of content for your money. It's a perfect game for both solo players and those who enjoy playing with friends and family.
New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe sticks to the classic Mario formula: you run, jump, and stomp your way through a series of colorful and challenging levels. The game features a world map that you can explore, with different paths and hidden secrets to discover. You can play as Mario, Luigi, or two different versions of Toad, each with their own unique abilities. And of course, there are plenty of power-ups to collect, including the Super Mushroom, Fire Flower, and Super Star. But the real star of the show is the Super Acorn, which transforms you into a Flying Squirrel. Flying Squirrel Mario can glide through the air, cling to walls, and even give other players a boost. It's a ton of fun to use and adds a new layer of depth to the gameplay.
The level design in New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is top-notch. Each level is packed with clever challenges, hidden secrets, and memorable moments. The game also features a variety of different environments, from lush forests to icy mountains to underwater caves. The difficulty curve is well-balanced, making it accessible to newcomers while still offering a challenge to seasoned Mario players. And if you're finding a level too difficult, you can always use the Super Guide, which will show you how to complete the level.
New Super Luigi U is a separate campaign that's included in New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe. This campaign is much more challenging than the main game, with shorter levels and tighter time limits. You play as Luigi, who jumps higher but has less traction than Mario. It's a great option for those who want a more challenging Mario experience. New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is a great choice for anyone who loves classic 2D Mario platformers. It's packed with content, features tight controls, and offers a fun and challenging experience for players of all skill levels. It's a must-have for any Switch owner who's a fan of the Mario franchise.
Conclusion
So, there you have it, folks! A rundown of some of the best Mario games you can play on the Nintendo Switch. Whether you're looking for a sprawling open-world adventure like Super Mario Odyssey, a chaotic multiplayer experience like Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury, a creative level-building tool like Super Mario Maker 2, or a classic 2D platformer like New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe, the Switch has something for everyone. Each of these games offers a unique and unforgettable experience that will keep you entertained for hours on end. So grab your Switch, pick your favorite Mario game, and get ready to jump into the Mushroom Kingdom! You won't be disappointed!