Best Mario Games: Which One Should You Play First?
Hey everyone! So, you're looking to dive into the amazing world of Mario, huh? That's awesome! But with so many incredible games spanning decades, it can feel a bit overwhelming trying to figure out the best Mario game to play first, or maybe just the next one in your gaming journey. Don't sweat it, guys! I'm here to break it down for you. We're going to explore some of the absolute classics and modern masterpieces that make the Mario universe so darn special. Whether you're a seasoned gamer looking for a nostalgic trip or a total newbie ready to jump into your very first adventure, there's a Mario game out there that's perfect for you. Get ready to grab your controller, because we're about to find your next favorite game!
The Timeless Classics: Where It All Began
When we talk about the best Mario game to play, we absolutely have to start with the foundational titles that set the standard for platforming. These games aren't just old; they're legends. Think about Super Mario Bros. on the NES. This game is pure, distilled fun. Its tight controls, iconic music, and surprisingly deep level design (for its time!) made it an instant hit, and honestly, it still holds up remarkably well today. It’s the game that introduced us to the Mushroom Kingdom, Bowser, and the simple yet addictive goal of rescuing Princess Peach. Playing it now is like stepping into a time capsule of gaming history, and it’s essential for understanding why Mario is still the king of platformers. The sense of discovery, the hidden blocks, the warp pipes – it all started here. The sheer innovation packed into this 8-bit cartridge is mind-blowing, and it paved the way for everything that came after. It's simple, it's pure, and it's an absolute must-play for any fan.
Then we have Super Mario Bros. 3. Oh man, this game is often cited as one of the greatest ever made, and for good reason. It took everything that made the original great and cranked it up to eleven. We got the introduction of the Tanooki Suit, giving Mario the ability to fly and transform. The world map was more intricate, the power-ups were more varied, and the boss battles were more engaging. The sheer creativity on display in Super Mario Bros. 3 is astounding, with each world offering a unique theme and set of challenges. It felt like a massive leap forward, showcasing Nintendo's incredible ability to innovate within a proven formula. The game’s secrets and multiple paths encourage replayability, making it a standout title even decades later. If you want to experience a truly golden age of Mario, this is a prime candidate for the best Mario game to play. It’s a masterclass in game design, pure and simple.
And let's not forget Super Mario World on the Super Nintendo. This game is a vibrant, colorful, and expansive adventure that introduced us to Yoshi! Riding Yoshi adds a whole new layer of gameplay, allowing for flutter jumps and different abilities depending on the Koopa shell you fed him. Super Mario World also boasts a massive overworld map with numerous secret exits, leading to hidden levels and even bonus worlds. The level design is incredibly ingenious, often requiring players to think outside the box and utilize Mario's moveset in creative ways. The sheer amount of content and the feeling of exploration make it an enduring favorite for many. The smooth graphics, catchy soundtrack, and the sheer joy of discovery make Super Mario World a compelling choice for anyone looking for the best Mario game to play. It’s a testament to how far the series had come, offering a rich and rewarding experience that still feels fresh today. The sense of wonder and the constant introduction of new mechanics keep you engaged from start to finish. It’s a game that truly defined a console generation and remains a benchmark for platforming excellence. The variety of enemies, the challenging yet fair boss encounters, and the sheer joy of movement are all hallmarks of this masterpiece. It’s easy to see why many consider it a top contender for the best Mario game ever. It perfected the 2D Mario formula, offering endless hours of fun and discovery for players of all skill levels.
Stepping into 3D: The Revolution of Super Mario 64
Now, let's talk about the game that changed everything: Super Mario 64. This wasn't just a new Mario game; it was a paradigm shift. For the first time, we got to experience the Mushroom Kingdom in full 3D, and it was nothing short of revolutionary. The game gave players an unprecedented level of freedom to explore vast, open-ended levels. Instead of linear progression, you were tasked with collecting stars, and each level offered multiple objectives to achieve this. The analog control stick, new to the Nintendo 64, allowed for incredibly precise movement, making Mario feel more alive and responsive than ever before. The sheer joy of simply running, jumping, and swimming around these imaginative worlds was a revelation. Super Mario 64 set the blueprint for 3D platforming, influencing countless games that followed. Its innovative camera system (for its time), its inventive level design that encouraged exploration, and its sheer sense of wonder make it an undeniable classic. If you're asking about the best Mario game to play to understand the evolution of the franchise, this is arguably it. It’s a game that still inspires awe and proves that Nintendo can reinvent itself and its beloved characters in spectacular fashion. The sense of discovery in each painting, leading you to a new world, was pure magic. It was a bold move, and it paid off handsomely, cementing Mario's status as a character who could adapt and thrive in any gaming dimension. The freedom to tackle objectives in any order within a level also added a unique strategic element, appealing to both completionists and those who just wanted to have fun. The iconic castle hub world, Peach's Castle, itself a marvel of design, served as a perfect introduction to the game's vastness and complexity. It’s a game that truly captured the imagination and remains a beloved masterpiece, a cornerstone of 3D gaming history. The impact of Super Mario 64 cannot be overstated; it redefined what a video game could be and set a new standard for interactive entertainment. It’s a testament to Nintendo’s visionary approach and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in game development. It’s the kind of game that makes you feel like a kid again, exploring a world full of endless possibilities and pure, unadulterated fun. It is, without a doubt, one of the most important video games ever created, and a strong contender for the best Mario game to play for sheer historical significance and groundbreaking gameplay.
The Golden Age of 3D: Sunshine, Galaxy, and Beyond
Following the monumental success of Super Mario 64, Nintendo continued to innovate in the 3D space. Super Mario Sunshine on the GameCube introduced FLUDD, a water-powered backpack that added a unique mechanic to gameplay. While it was a bit divisive among fans for its departure from pure platforming in some aspects, it offered a vibrant, tropical setting and some truly creative level designs. The challenge of using FLUDD effectively added a distinct flavor to the Mario experience, and games like Delfino Plaza are still fondly remembered. It's a game that offered a different kind of Mario adventure, focusing on water mechanics and a unique story. It might not be everyone's absolute favorite, but it’s a fascinating entry that showcases Nintendo’s willingness to experiment. For those looking for a Mario game with a unique twist and a distinct aesthetic, Super Mario Sunshine is worth checking out.
Then came the truly out-of-this-world Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 on the Wii. These games are often hailed as pinnacles of 3D platforming. They took Mario to space, introducing gravity-bending gameplay across spherical worlds and celestial bodies. The creativity in Super Mario Galaxy is absolutely breathtaking. You're leaping between planets, navigating asteroid fields, and using a variety of new power-ups like the Bee Mushroom and the Boo Mushroom. The orchestral score is magnificent, and the overall presentation is stunning. Super Mario Galaxy 2 somehow managed to improve upon the original, offering even more inventive level design and challenges. These games are pure joy, packed with innovation and charm. If you're looking for the best Mario game to play that showcases Nintendo's peak creativity in 3D, the Galaxy titles are hard to beat. They are visually spectacular, mechanically brilliant, and endlessly fun. The feeling of cosmic adventure and the sheer variety of gameplay mechanics make them stand out. These games are not just good; they are phenomenal, offering a sublime experience that appeals to both newcomers and veterans alike. The level design is intricate, the controls are precise, and the sense of scale is awe-inspiring. They represent Nintendo at its absolute best, crafting experiences that are both challenging and accessible, magical and memorable. The introduction of Yoshi in Galaxy 2 also adds another layer of enjoyment, bringing back a beloved companion with new abilities. The sheer polish and attention to detail in these games are evident in every aspect, from the character animations to the background scenery. They are a testament to Nintendo's dedication to creating high-quality, engaging entertainment. It’s easy to get lost in the wonder of these cosmic playgrounds, and the music alone is enough to transport you to another world. These games are often mentioned in discussions about the best Mario game to play due to their sheer brilliance and enduring appeal. They are truly special titles that define the potential of the platforming genre.
The Modern Era: Odyssey and Beyond
Fast forward to the Nintendo Switch, and we got Super Mario Odyssey. This game is a celebration of everything Mario. It takes the open-ended exploration of Super Mario 64 and the creativity of Galaxy and combines it into one massive, incredible adventure. The star of the show here is Cappy, Mario's sentient hat, which allows him to possess enemies and objects, leading to incredibly fun and unexpected gameplay mechanics. You travel across wildly diverse kingdoms, each with its own unique theme and tons of secrets to discover. The movement is fluid and responsive, offering a huge amount of control. Super Mario Odyssey is bursting with charm, humor, and pure fun. It’s easily one of the most accessible and enjoyable Mario games ever made. If you're looking for the best Mario game to play right now, especially if you have a Switch, Odyssey is a top-tier recommendation. It perfectly blends classic Mario elements with fresh, innovative ideas, creating an experience that feels both familiar and brand new. The sheer amount of content packed into this game is staggering, offering dozens of hours of exploration and discovery. The ability to possess almost anything opens up a universe of possibilities for puzzle-solving and traversal. It’s a game that encourages experimentation and rewards curiosity at every turn. The joyful soundtrack, the vibrant visuals, and the sheer charisma of Mario himself make Odyssey an unforgettable journey. It truly captures the spirit of adventure and wonder that the Mario series is known for. The kingdom designs are imaginative, ranging from bustling cityscapes to lush forests and even abstract, artistic worlds. The variety keeps the gameplay feeling fresh and exciting throughout. The boss battles are creative, often incorporating Cappy mechanics in unique ways. It's a game that doesn't shy away from celebrating Mario's legacy while simultaneously forging a bold new path forward. It’s the kind of game that makes you smile from ear to ear, a perfect example of Nintendo’s masterful game design. For many, this is the ultimate Mario experience, a triumphant return to form that solidifies its place among the best Mario games ever created. It’s a must-play for any Switch owner and a fantastic entry point for anyone new to the franchise. The sheer replayability, with countless moons to collect and challenges to overcome, ensures that the fun never has to end. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of Mario and Nintendo's ability to consistently deliver exceptional gaming experiences.
So, Which Mario Game is the Best for YOU?
Ultimately, the best Mario game to play really depends on what you're looking for.
- For the purists and retro lovers: You can't go wrong with Super Mario Bros. 3 or Super Mario World. They represent the pinnacle of 2D Mario platforming and are packed with innovation and charm.
- For those wanting to see the 3D revolution: Super Mario 64 is essential. It’s a historical landmark and still an absolute blast to play.
- For a truly spectacular 3D adventure: Super Mario Galaxy (and its sequel) offers breathtaking cosmic journeys with unparalleled creativity.
- For the modern explorer: Super Mario Odyssey is the current king, offering immense freedom, charm, and innovative gameplay on the Switch.
No matter which you choose, you're in for a treat. Nintendo has a way of making their games feel special, and the Mario series is no exception. So, pick one that calls to you, jump in, and have some fun! Happy gaming, everyone!