With today being MAR10 Day, many fans are eagerly celebrating Mario himself. Nintendo themselves are celebrating Mario Day with multiple eShop sales, and special in-game events. With many still stuck at home, this creates an opportunity to properly celebrate our favorite mustached mutist. Whether alone or with others, I’ve curated a list of the five must-play Mario games to play on celebration of his big day!
5. Super Mario Odyssey
The first game on my list is Mario’s latest big adventure, Sure, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury recently launched; however, Bowser’s Fury is the only new content. Super Mario Odyssey was the first 3D Mario game since 2010’s Super Mario Galaxy 2. Odyssey took the traditional 3D Mario formula and tipped it upside down. Mario, with the help of his sentient hat Cappy, can now transform into many enemies and objects. This mechanic opened up many new gameplay possibilities. In addition to possession, Mario can throw his cap and use it as a bounce pad. Coupled with his new roll ability, Mario’s movement has never felt more agile and fluid. With its sprawling worlds, each filled with unique theming and enemies, Super Mario Odyssey truly felt like the future of the Super Mario franchise.
4. Super Mario Maker 2
Initially, an entry in the New Super Mario series was to be included. Super Mario Maker 2 offers up gameplay styles ranging from Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros. 3, Super Mario World, New Super Mario Bros. U, and Super Mario 3D World. The initial four modes ultimately feel very similar. This is mainly due to them all being built around the New Super Mario Bros. U engine. That said, the 3D World-style offers up an all-new 2D Mario experience. Mario Maker 2 also features exclusive items. For example, using the Master Sword power-up transforms Mario into The Legend of Zelda’s Link. Incredibly fitting, considering that franchise is also celebrating its 35th anniversary. With a plethora of levels available, both by Nintendo’s developers, and other players, Super Mario Maker 2 entertains for hours. The title is also currently on sale for $38.99, as part of Nintendo’s Mario Day sale.
3. Super Mario 64
Prior to Super Mario 64’s release, Mario was traditionally only known for his 2D side-scrollers and various spinoffs. It was this game that fundamentally changed not only Mario’s own titles but nearly all 3D platformers going forward. For the first time, Mario was playable from a 3D perspective, technically second if Super Mario RPG’s isometric perspective is to be counted. Mario travels to diverse looking lands, each filled with power stars and coins to collect, and many enemies to defeat. This was also one of Charles Martinet’s first times voicing the titular character. Super Mario 64 almost feels like a celebration of Mario, and all of gaming, all on its own, and is one of the most iconic and beloved games in his extensive portfolio.
2. Mario Kart 8/8 Deluxe
This entry in the list technically includes two games. The Nintendo Wii U’s Mario Kart 8 and the Nintendo Switch’s Deluxe port. While either option is a great choice, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe reins the more supreme version, due to the additional characters and much-improved battle mode. Regardless of the version, Mario Kart 8 is the most visually stunning Mario Kart game to date. Race tracks are so full of vibrant colors and life. in addition to the large roster of racers, multiple customizable car parts, and the largest number of available stages, Mario Kart 8 offers up one of the most refined experiences in the long-going franchise. If playing the original with the DLC or the Switch Deluxe port, give Link and his accompanying Hyrule-themed track a try. Another way to tie in two anniversaries in one!
1. Super Mario Bros.
The final entry on this list isn’t much of a surprise. It’s the game actually celebrating its 35th anniversary. While many may assume Mario Day is the celebration of Mario’s first title, it is actually all about the Super Mario series. 1985 debut. Super Mario Bros. was the hit exclusive the Nintendo Entertainment System, and Japan’s Famicom, really needed. While certainly not the first 2D platformer, it was absolutely one of the most game-changing. This includes everything from its easy to play but hard to master platforming, to its ingenious hidden tutorial mechanic found in the game’s first level. Super Mario Bros., alongside the popularity of the NES in the West, is accredited for progressing the industry, after The Video Game Crash of 1983. Finding a source to play Super Mario Bros. is simple, thanks to re-releasing on many other platforms, including recently released Game & Watch: Super Mario Bros.
So there you have it, that is my list of the five must-play Mario games for his 35th anniversary. Remember Super Mario Maker 2 is on sale for $38.99 right now. Be sure to check out our article on the other Mario Day Specials and Savings on Nintendo Switch eShop currently going on right now. How are you planning to celebrate MAR10 Day? Let us know in the comments section below, and on social media!
