Super Mario Games On Nintendo Switch: The Ultimate Guide
Hey gamers, welcome back! Today we're diving headfirst into the incredible world of Super Mario games available on the Nintendo Switch. If you're a fan of the portly plumber, or just looking for some seriously fun gaming experiences, you've come to the right place. The Switch has become a haven for Mario fans, offering everything from brand new adventures to beloved classics remastered for a new generation. We're going to break down the must-play titles, what makes them special, and why they should be in your Switch library. So grab your power-ups and let's get started!
The King of Platforming: Super Mario Odyssey
When you talk about Super Mario on the Switch, Super Mario Odyssey has to be the first game that comes to mind for most people, and for good reason. This game is an absolute masterpiece, guys, a true testament to Nintendo's platforming prowess. Released in 2017, Odyssey took the classic Mario formula and injected it with a massive dose of creativity and exploration. Instead of linear levels, you're dropped into huge, sandbox-style kingdoms brimming with secrets, challenges, and adorable characters. The core mechanic revolves around Cappy, Mario's sentient hat, which you can throw to possess enemies and objects. This opens up an insane variety of gameplay possibilities, letting you control everything from Goombas and Bullet Bills to even chain-link fences! The sheer joy of discovery in Odyssey is unparalleled. Every corner you turn, every hidden nook you find, rewards you with a Power Moon, the collectibles needed to power up your ship, the Odyssey, and travel to new worlds. The game is incredibly charming, with vibrant visuals, a catchy soundtrack, and that signature Mario humor that always brings a smile to your face. Whether you're a seasoned Mario veteran or a newcomer to the series, Odyssey offers a breathtaking adventure that's both familiar and refreshingly new. The controls are tight and responsive, as you'd expect from a Mario game, allowing for precise jumps and acrobatic maneuvers. Plus, the sheer amount of content is staggering – there are hundreds of Power Moons to find, various costumes to unlock for Mario, and post-game content that will keep you busy for hours on end. It's not just a game; it's an experience, a celebration of everything that makes Mario, well, Mario. The freedom to approach objectives in multiple ways, combined with the sheer fun of Cappy's abilities, makes Odyssey a true system seller and arguably one of the best games on the Switch, period.
A Fresh Take on a Classic: New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe
For those who love the traditional 2D Super Mario experience, New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is an absolute must-have. This isn't just a port; it's a super-sized package that includes the original New Super Mario Bros. U and the New Super Luigi U expansion. What makes this game stand out is its perfect blend of classic side-scrolling action with modern twists. You'll find yourself jumping, stomping, and power-up hunting through beautifully designed levels that harken back to the golden age of Mario. But don't let the familiar gameplay fool you; there are plenty of new challenges and creative level designs to keep even the most experienced players on their toes. The 'Deluxe' moniker is well-earned because this version includes all the content from the Wii U versions, plus some fantastic additions. You get access to Nabbit and Toadette as playable characters, who offer unique abilities that can make the game more accessible for newer players or offer a different challenge for veterans. Nabbit, for instance, doesn't take damage from enemies, which is a lifesaver! And when Toadette grabs a Super Crown, she transforms into Peachette, who can float gracefully and use a special toadstool attack. The level design is top-notch, with secrets hidden in almost every stage, encouraging exploration and replayability. The difficulty curve is well-balanced, starting off accessible and gradually ramping up, ensuring that everyone from casual players to hardcore completionists will find something to enjoy. The multiplayer aspect is also a huge draw. Up to four players can jump into the action simultaneously, leading to both cooperative fun and hilariously chaotic moments as you try to navigate the levels together (or sometimes get in each other's way!). It’s the kind of game that’s perfect for family game nights or when you just want to kick back with some friends and enjoy some pure, unadulterated platforming fun. The sheer volume of levels and the addition of the Luigi U content mean you're getting incredible value for your money. It captures the essence of what made Mario games legendary while adding enough new elements to feel fresh and exciting. It’s a testament to Nintendo’s ability to iterate on a beloved formula and deliver a consistently high-quality experience that appeals to a broad audience. This is the go-to game for anyone craving that classic 2D Mario feel with modern polish and tons of content.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: The Ultimate Party Racer
No discussion about Super Mario on the Switch would be complete without mentioning Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. While not a traditional platformer, this game is an absolute essential for any Switch owner, Mario fan or not. It’s the definitive version of Mario Kart 8, packing in all the DLC from the Wii U version and adding new characters, vehicles, and battle modes. What makes Mario Kart 8 Deluxe so special is its incredible accessibility and depth. Anyone can pick up a controller and have a blast racing, but mastering the techniques like drifting, item management, and track shortcuts takes real skill. The game looks stunning, with vibrant tracks that are bursting with detail and creative themes. From the underwater sections of Dolphin Shoals to the antigravity thrills of Electrodrome, each course is a visual treat. The roster of characters is massive, featuring fan favorites from across the Mario universe and even some guest characters like Link from The Legend of Zelda and the Inklings from Splatoon. The sheer variety of karts, bikes, and customization options allows you to tailor your ride to your preferred playstyle. But the real magic of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe shines in its multiplayer. Whether you're playing locally with friends and family or taking the race online against players from around the world, the chaotic fun never stops. Those blue shells might be frustrating, but they're also part of what makes every race so unpredictable and exciting! The addition of the Booster Course Pass further expands the game's longevity, adding a huge number of remastered tracks from previous Mario Kart games, ensuring that there's always a new challenge waiting. It's the perfect game for parties, casual get-togethers, or just blowing off some steam after a long day. The sheer replayability is off the charts, and it remains one of the best-selling games on the Switch for a reason. It’s a masterclass in arcade racing design, delivering pure, unadulterated fun that keeps you coming back for more, race after race. It's more than just a racing game; it's a cultural phenomenon that brings people together through friendly competition and iconic characters.
A Galaxy of Adventure: Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury
Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury is another phenomenal package that brings a beloved Wii U title to the Switch, along with a brand-new adventure. The core game, Super Mario 3D World, is a brilliant take on the 3D Mario formula, blending the exploration of 3D environments with the linear structure and power-ups of 2D Mario games. You can play as Mario, Luigi, Peach, Toad, and even Rosalina, each with slightly different abilities. The game is known for its creative level design, featuring clever puzzles, challenging platforming sections, and plenty of secrets to uncover. The introduction of the Super Bell, which transforms characters into cats, was a stroke of genius, adding a whole new dimension of verticality and stealth to the gameplay. What really makes this package a must-buy, however, is the inclusion of Bowser's Fury. This is a completely new, open-world adventure that feels like a precursor to Super Mario Odyssey. You explore a vast, interconnected land called the Wrathful Ruins, tasked with helping Bowser Jr. calm his rampaging, kaiju-sized father. The gameplay here is more freeform, allowing you to tackle objectives at your own pace. Mario can team up with Bowser Jr., who acts as your AI companion, and you can even take control of him for certain tasks. The scale of Bowser's Fury is impressive, with giant bosses and epic battles that are unlike anything seen in a traditional Mario game. The visuals are stunning, and the sense of scale is truly awe-inspiring. This dual offering provides an incredible amount of content and variety, catering to both fans of classic Mario structure and those looking for a more open-ended experience. The cooperative play in Super Mario 3D World is fantastic, making it another great option for multiplayer fun. For Bowser's Fury, the dynamic between Mario and Bowser Jr. is surprisingly heartwarming, adding an emotional layer to the bombastic action. It's a package that delivers exceptional value, combining a critically acclaimed title with a bold, experimental new adventure that pushes the boundaries of what a Mario game can be. It showcases Nintendo's commitment to offering diverse and engaging experiences within its most iconic franchise, ensuring that there's something for every type of player, from the casual explorer to the seasoned platforming enthusiast. The fusion of these two distinct yet equally brilliant experiences makes this a standout title in the Switch's already stellar library.
Other Essential Mario Experiences
Beyond the flagship titles, the Nintendo Switch boasts a wealth of other Super Mario adventures that are absolutely worth your time, guys. Super Mario Maker 2, for instance, is a dream come true for aspiring game designers and Mario enthusiasts alike. It empowers you to create and share your own Mario levels using a vast toolkit inspired by various Mario games throughout history. The sheer creativity on display from the community is mind-blowing, offering an endless supply of unique challenges and ingenious level designs. Whether you're building your own masterpieces or diving into the millions of levels created by others, the possibilities are virtually limitless. It’s a game that fosters creativity and provides countless hours of entertainment. Then there's Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle and its sequel, Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope. These are surprising strategy RPGs that brilliantly blend the charm of the Mario universe with the zany humor of Ubisoft's Rabbids. Don't let the cute appearance fool you; these games offer deep, engaging tactical combat that will challenge even seasoned strategy fans. The unique combination of characters, abilities, and squad-based gameplay creates a fresh and innovative experience that stands out in the Switch library. You get to command a team of iconic Mario characters alongside their Rabbid counterparts, navigating grid-based battlefields and utilizing a wide array of offensive and defensive skills. The story is lighthearted but engaging, and the progression systems keep you invested in building up your team's power. For those who crave a dose of nostalgia, keep an eye out for potential Virtual Console releases or potential ports of older Mario titles. While not currently available in a dedicated collection, Nintendo often surprises fans with classic game offerings. Each of these titles offers a distinct flavor of Mario fun, showcasing the versatility and enduring appeal of Nintendo's flagship franchise. They prove that Mario isn't just about platforming; he's a character that can excel in various genres, always bringing that signature Nintendo polish and charm. Whether you're looking to design levels, strategize in a turn-based combat system, or simply revisit beloved classics, the Switch has you covered. These games are a testament to the fact that the Mario universe is vast and continues to expand in exciting and unexpected ways, offering something fresh and engaging for every player who steps into the Mushroom Kingdom.
Conclusion: Why Mario is a Must-Have on Switch
So there you have it, guys! The Nintendo Switch is an absolute paradise for Super Mario fans. From the groundbreaking exploration of Super Mario Odyssey to the classic 2D thrills of New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe, the chaotic racing of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and the unique blend of 3D and open-world adventure in Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury, there's a Mario game for everyone. These titles aren't just games; they're experiences that define the platforming genre and showcase the best of what Nintendo has to offer. They are polished, fun, incredibly well-designed, and offer massive amounts of replayability. Whether you're playing solo or with friends and family, the joy and excitement these games bring are undeniable. If you own a Nintendo Switch and you haven't jumped into the Mario universe yet, what are you waiting for? It's time to grab your Joy-Cons, power up, and embark on some of the most memorable gaming adventures you'll ever have. The legacy of Super Mario continues to thrive on the Switch, offering endless fun and pure gaming bliss. Don't miss out on the magic!