The Evolution of Mario: A Ranking of the Super Mario Games
Super Mario is a cornerstone of the gaming world, boasting a history that spans decades and encompasses a diverse range of game types, from classic side-scrollers to innovative 3D platformers. Determining the “best” Mario games requires considering level design, gameplay mechanics, and the overall impact each title has had on the franchise and the wider gaming landscape. This article focuses on the mainline titles, excluding spin-offs like Wario Land or Yoshi’s Island, which, even as excellent games, didn’t directly contribute to the core evolution of the Mario series.
Super Mario Galaxy
Released in 2007 for the Wii, Super Mario Galaxy revolutionized 3D platforming with its innovative use of spherical platforms and gravity mechanics. Players traverse galaxies, collecting Power Stars through levels that combine platforming challenges with intricate puzzles. Core controls include running, jumping, spinning, and interacting with the environment. The game’s narrative, while light, is provided by Rosalina, adding a touch of story to the galactic adventure. Super Mario Galaxy set a fresh precedent for 3D Mario level design and mechanics, and a recent Switch version enhances the experience with handheld compatibility.
Super Mario World
Super Mario World, released in 1990 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), introduced interconnected 2D stages filled with castles, plains, and underwater areas. A key feature was the Cape Feather, allowing Mario to glide through levels. The game is replete with power-ups and hidden exits, encouraging exploration. Movement revolves around running, jumping, and gliding, while enemies like Koopas, Goombas, and Piranha Plants provide classic platforming challenges. Its level design allows for multiple paths, retaining the feel of classic platforming while adding depth and replayability.
Super Mario Galaxy 2
Building upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, Super Mario Galaxy 2 (2010, Wii) further refined gravity-based 3D levels. Players once again collect Power Stars across planets and spherical platforms, but this time, Yoshi plays a more prominent role, assisting with movement and interaction. Levels like Sky Station Galaxy and Puzzle Plank Galaxy showcase the game’s expanded level variety. Core mechanics remain consistent – jumping, running, and spinning – with challenging boss encounters at the end of each level.
Super Mario Odyssey
Released in 2017 for the Nintendo Switch, Super Mario Odyssey introduced a new approach to 3D platforming with its kingdom-based structure. Mario collects Power Moons to progress, and Cappy, a new companion, allows him to possess enemies and objects, opening up unique gameplay possibilities. Levels span diverse environments, including cities, forests, and fantastical areas. The game seamlessly integrates exploration, puzzles, and platforming within a vast 3D space.
Super Mario Bros. Wonder
The latest installment, Super Mario Bros. Wonder (2023, Switch), introduces interactive elements like Wonder Seeds, transforming levels and creating unpredictable gameplay scenarios. The game features 2D platforming with varying terrain, collectible items, and classic power-ups. Characters move using familiar running and jumping mechanics, but the levels are visually distinct and colorful, offering a fresh take on the traditional Mario formula.
Super Mario Bros. 3
Super Mario Bros. 3 (1988, NES) introduced a world map system, allowing players to navigate levels and choose their path. The Super Leaf power-up enabled gliding, adding a new dimension to movement. Levels encompass a variety of environments, including plains, castles, and deserts. The game’s influence on later 2D Mario titles is undeniable, shaping level design and core mechanics.
New Super Mario Bros.
New Super Mario Bros. (2006, Nintendo DS) brought 2D platforming back to the forefront, featuring unique bosses like Petey Piranha and Mega Goomba. Hidden collectibles are scattered throughout stages, rewarding exploration. Player abilities include jumping, running, and utilizing items. The game’s level design retains classic Mario mechanics while introducing new elements, and its enemy design avoids repetition in later entries.
Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury
Super Mario 3D World (2013, Wii U, enhanced on Switch) blends 2D-style stages with 3D movement, offering a unique gameplay experience. Players collect items and discover secret exits, while Bowser’s Fury adds open-world sections. Controls include running, jumping, and climbing, and multiple characters are selectable, each with similar abilities. The Switch version improves performance and adds new features, combining structured and open exploration.
New Super Mario Bros. Wii
New Super Mario Bros. Wii (2009, Wii) supports up to four players, adding a cooperative element to the classic platforming formula. The Koopalings return as bosses, and levels feature multiple paths and secret areas. Players utilize power-ups like the Super Mushroom and Fire Flower, and the game’s challenging levels encourage teamwork.
Super Mario 64
Super Mario 64 (1996, Nintendo 64) was a groundbreaking title that introduced 3D platforming to a wider audience. Players explore Peach’s Castle and collect Power Stars across levels like Bob-omb Battlefield, Whomp’s Fortress, and Rainbow Ride. Controls allow for jumping, swimming, and running, and the game’s mechanics, such as jumping and collecting items, became standards for future 3D Mario games.