Mario Games On Nintendo Switch: Your Ultimate Guide

Hey gamers! So, you've snagged yourself a shiny new Nintendo Switch and you're wondering, "What are the best Mario games I can play on this thing?" Well, buckle up, because we're about to dive deep into the wonderful world of Mario on the Switch. Whether you're a seasoned Mario veteran or a total newbie, there's a mushroom-munching adventure waiting for you. Nintendo always knocks it out of the park with their first-party titles, and Mario is no exception. The Switch has become a haven for Mario enthusiasts, offering a fantastic mix of brand-new experiences and beloved classics reimagined. We're talking about games that are not only fun but also push the boundaries of what a platformer can be. Get ready to explore vibrant worlds, jump on Goombas, and save Princess Peach (again!) in ways you've never imagined. This guide will break down the must-play Mario titles, giving you the lowdown on what makes each one special. So grab your Joy-Cons, and let's get started on this epic journey through the Mushroom Kingdom and beyond!

The Must-Play Mario Titles You Need on Your Switch

Alright guys, let's get down to business. When we talk about Mario games for Nintendo Switch, a few absolute titans immediately come to mind. First up, we have Super Mario Odyssey. This game is an absolute masterpiece, folks. It redefined what a 3D Mario game could be, offering vast, open-ended worlds brimming with secrets and collectibles. You're not just jumping from point A to point B; you're exploring, experimenting, and truly interacting with the environment. The Cappy mechanic, where Mario throws his sentient hat to possess enemies and objects, is a stroke of genius. It opens up a universe of gameplay possibilities, allowing for incredibly creative solutions to puzzles and platforming challenges. The sheer joy of discovering a new kingdom, like the bustling New Donk City or the spooky Shadow Kingdom, is unparalleled. Each kingdom is unique, packed with humor, charm, and hundreds of Power Moons to collect. It's a game that constantly rewards your curiosity and is an absolute joy from start to finish. For anyone looking for the quintessential modern 3D Mario experience, Super Mario Odyssey is non-negotiable. It's accessible enough for newcomers but deep enough to keep even the most hardcore players engaged for dozens, if not hundreds, of hours. The sheer scale and creativity on display are mind-boggling, making it one of the best games on the Switch, period.

Then, we have Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Now, if you own a Switch, you probably already have this, and for good reason! It's the definitive kart racing experience, packed with more characters, tracks, and battle modes than ever before. Whether you're playing with friends locally or online, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a recipe for pure, unadulterated fun. The controls are tight, the courses are brilliantly designed with tons of shortcuts and hazards, and the sheer variety of items keeps every race unpredictable and exciting. From the classic Rainbow Road to new tracks inspired by other Nintendo franchises, there's always something new to discover. The addition of all the DLC from the original Wii U version, plus new characters and battle modes, makes this the most complete Mario Kart package available. Plus, with the Booster Course Pass, you're getting even more tracks added regularly. It's the perfect party game, the ultimate way to settle friendly rivalries, and a fantastic single-player experience if you're looking to master every track. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is more than just a racing game; it's a social phenomenon, a cornerstone of Switch gaming, and an absolute blast for players of all ages and skill levels. You simply can't go wrong with this one. It’s the kind of game that brings people together and guarantees laughter and friendly competition.

And we absolutely cannot forget Super Mario Bros. Wonder! This is the latest 2D Mario adventure, and it's an absolute revelation. Nintendo took the classic 2D platforming formula and injected it with a massive dose of pure, unadulterated creativity. The Wonder Flowers are the stars of the show here. Collect one, and the level completely transforms in unexpected and often hilarious ways. One moment you're running normally, the next you might be turned into a Goomba, a rolling boulder, or a sentient blob of jelly! These transformations aren't just for show; they drastically alter gameplay, introducing new mechanics and challenges that keep you on your toes. The visual style is also a huge step up, with gorgeous, expressive animations and vibrant environments that pop off the screen. It feels both familiar and refreshingly new. Plus, the game introduces new power-ups, like the Elephant Fruit, which is just as fun as it sounds. The ability to play as different characters, including those with unique abilities like Yoshi and Nabbit (who are great for beginners), adds another layer of accessibility and replayability. Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a testament to Nintendo's ability to innovate within a beloved franchise, proving that the 2D Mario formula still has plenty of life left in it. It’s a truly magical experience that will delight both long-time fans and newcomers alike.

Diving Deeper into 2D Mario Excellence

Let's give some love to the 2D Mario games on the Switch, because Nintendo has really delivered here too, guys. Beyond the groundbreaking Super Mario Bros. Wonder, we have New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe. Now, this might seem like a standard 2D Mario game at first glance, but don't let its seemingly simple exterior fool you. It's a masterclass in level design, offering a substantial challenge that rewards precise platforming and clever use of power-ups. What makes New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe particularly great for the Switch is its inclusion of Luigi U content and the fantastic addition of characters like Toadette and Nabbit. This means players of all skill levels can jump in and have a blast. Nabbit, in particular, is immune to enemy damage, making him perfect for younger players or those who just want to enjoy the exploration without the constant threat of losing a life. Toadette, when she gets the Super Crown, transforms into Peachette, giving her a floaty jump ability that makes traversing tricky sections much easier. The game also features cooperative multiplayer for up to four players, which can lead to some hilarious and chaotic moments as you try to help, or hinder, each other. The levels are packed with secrets, hidden paths, and Star Coins to find, giving you plenty of reason to replay them. It's a game that respects the legacy of Super Mario Bros. while also introducing enough new ideas to feel fresh. If you're looking for a more traditional, but still incredibly polished and fun, 2D Mario experience that you can enjoy with family and friends, New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is an excellent choice. It provides that classic Mario challenge with modern polish and accessibility features that make it a hit for everyone.

And let's not forget the incredible value packed into Super Mario 3D All-Stars. While this was a limited-time release, if you managed to snag a physical or digital copy, you've got a treasure trove of gaming history. This collection brings together three of the most iconic 3D Mario games: Super Mario 64, Super Mario Sunshine, and Super Mario Galaxy (and its sequel, Galaxy 2, in some versions depending on region and edition). Playing Super Mario 64 on the Switch is like stepping back in time to a pivotal moment in gaming history. It was one of the first true 3D platformers and its influence is undeniable. Its innovative control scheme and open-ended level design laid the groundwork for so many games that followed. Then there's Super Mario Sunshine, a game that, while perhaps more divisive than its peers, offers a unique tropical setting and the innovative FLUDD water-pack mechanic. It’s a colorful and charming adventure that provides a different flavor of 3D Mario. Finally, Super Mario Galaxy and Galaxy 2 are often cited as two of the greatest games ever made. Their gravity-defying gameplay, imaginative level design, and orchestral score are simply breathtaking. Being able to play these masterpieces on the go with the Nintendo Switch is a dream come true for many fans. Super Mario 3D All-Stars is a fantastic way to experience these landmark titles, showcasing the evolution of 3D Mario gameplay across different console generations. It’s a celebration of Mario’s legacy and a must-have for any serious fan of the franchise, offering hundreds of hours of high-quality platforming fun across three distinct eras of gaming. The ability to revisit these classics with improved controls and resolution is a treat that can't be overstated.

Mario's Role in Other Switch Adventures

While the core Mario platformers and kart racers are huge draws, let's not forget that Mario and his pals are stars in many other fantastic Nintendo Switch games, guys. Super Mario Maker 2 is a prime example of this. This game isn't just a level editor; it's a universe of user-generated Mario levels. You can create your own dream levels using assets from various Mario games, from the original Super Mario Bros. to Super Mario 3D World, or you can dive into an almost infinite supply of levels created by players worldwide. The sheer creativity on display is astounding, with players building everything from mind-bending puzzle levels to incredibly difficult traditional platforming challenges. The tools provided are robust and surprisingly intuitive, allowing anyone to become a game designer. It's a game that offers endless replayability and constantly surprises you with new ideas. Whether you're a creator or a player, Super Mario Maker 2 is an absolute must-have for its sheer scope and the community it fosters. It truly lets you experience Mario in ways you never thought possible, fostering a collaborative environment where imagination reigns supreme. The ability to share your creations and play others' is what makes this game so special and enduring.

Then there are the RPGs! Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle and its sequel, Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope, offer a completely fresh take on the Mario universe. These are turn-based tactical shooters, which might sound odd, but trust me, they are incredibly fun and surprisingly deep. You control a team of iconic Mario characters alongside the mischievous Rabbids, navigating colorful battlefields, using cover, and unleashing powerful abilities. The humor is top-notch, the visuals are vibrant, and the gameplay is challenging yet rewarding. Sparks of Hope in particular refines the formula with more freedom of movement and engaging RPG elements. These games are a fantastic surprise for anyone who enjoys strategy games and wants to see Mario in a totally new light. They showcase Nintendo's willingness to experiment and collaborate, resulting in unique and highly enjoyable experiences that stand out from the traditional Mario fare. The blend of familiar characters with a new genre is expertly handled, making these titles appealing to both Mario fans and strategy game aficionados. It’s a testament to the versatility of the characters and the potential for creative crossovers.

Finally, while not strictly a Mario game, titles like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate are essential for any Switch owner and heavily feature Mario characters. As the ultimate fighting game celebrating Nintendo's history, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate includes nearly every fighter ever to grace the series, with Mario, Luigi, Peach, Bowser, and many others taking center stage. It’s a chaotic, fun-filled brawler perfect for parties and competitive play. The sheer number of characters, stages, and items ensures endless hours of battling. It’s the perfect culmination of Nintendo’s iconic roster, and Mario’s presence is, as always, front and center, showcasing his enduring appeal across different genres and gameplay styles. It truly is the ultimate celebration of gaming's most beloved characters and a must-own title for any Switch owner looking for multiplayer mayhem. The depth of gameplay means even after hundreds of hours, you'll still be discovering new strategies and combos, keeping the experience fresh and engaging for dedicated players.

Which Mario Game is Right for You?

So, there you have it, guys! A whirlwind tour of the incredible Mario games for Nintendo Switch. Whether you're craving the open-world exploration of Super Mario Odyssey, the chaotic fun of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, the innovative twists of Super Mario Bros. Wonder, the classic challenges of New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe, the nostalgic journeys in Super Mario 3D All-Stars, the creative freedom of Super Mario Maker 2, the strategic depth of Mario + Rabbids, or the ultimate fighting experience in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, there's truly a Mario game for everyone. Nintendo has ensured that the Switch is the ultimate destination for Mario fans, offering a diverse and high-quality selection of games that celebrate the legacy and future of gaming's most famous plumber. No matter your preferred genre or playstyle, you can't go wrong diving into any of these fantastic titles. Happy gaming!