Top 10 Super Mario games ranked: From the magic of Super Mario Galaxy to the legacy of Super Mario 64

Super Mario is a staple in the world of gaming, with a history spanning decades and various types of Mario games, from side-scrollers to 3D platformers. In determining what the best Mario games are, only the mainline titles are represented in this list. Games like Wario Land or Yoshi’s Island are not included, as they are spin-offs and did not contribute to the evolution of the Mario series. Each game is considered in terms of level design, gameplay, and overall impact on future titles in the series. While some titles may have brought innovations, others may have perfected old concepts. The titles represented in this article are the most important, influential, and enjoyable in the history of the Mario series, according to the Nintendo official website. Check below the list of the top 10 best Mario games ranked.

Super Mario Galaxy uses spherical platforms and gravity mechanics. Players collect Power Stars across galaxies. Controls include running, jumping, spinning, and object interaction. Levels combine platforming and puzzle elements. Rosalina provides a light story context. Released in 2007 for Wii. The game sets a precedent for 3D Mario level design and mechanics.

Switch version adds handheld compatibility.

Super Mario World uses interconnected 2D stages. Levels include castles, plains, and underwater areas. Players use the Cape Feather for gliding. Power-ups and hidden exits are present in many levels. Movement is running, jumping, and gliding. Enemy types include Koopas, Goombas, and Piranha Plants. Released in 1990 for SNES. Level design allows multiple paths while retaining classic platforming.

Super Mario Galaxy 2 uses gravity-based 3D levels. Players collect Power Stars on planets and spherical platforms. Yoshi can be used for movement and interaction. Levels include Sky Station Galaxy and Puzzle Plank Galaxy. Jumping, running, and spinning are core mechanics. Boss encounters appear at level ends. Released for Wii in 2010. The game builds on Galaxy mechanics with expanded level variety.

Super Mario Odyssey uses 3D kingdoms. Mario collects Power Moons to progress. Cappy allows possession of enemies and objects. Levels include cities, forests, and fantasy areas. Player abilities include running, jumping, and throwing. Optional objectives provide extended gameplay. Released in 2017 for Switch. Odyssey integrates exploration, puzzles, and platforming in a 3D space.

Super Mario Bros. Wonder features interactive elements like Wonder Seeds. Levels are 2D platforming with varying terrain. Players collect items and use power-ups. Characters move using running and jumping mechanics. Levels are visually distinct and colourful. Released in 2023 on Switch. The game continues traditional 2D Mario gameplay while adding environmental mechanics.

Super Mario Bros. 3 has a world map system. Players navigate levels with power-ups like the Super Leaf. Levels include plains, castles, and deserts. Movement allows running, jumping, and climbing. Enemies include Goombas, Koopas, and Lakitus. Levels have secrets and multiple paths. Released in 1988 for NES. The game influenced later 2D Mario design and mechanics.

New Super Mario Bros. on DS uses 2D platforming. Levels include unique bosses like Petey Piranha and Mega Goomba. Hidden collectibles are spread throughout stages. Player abilities include jumping, running, and using items. Level design introduces variety while retaining classic Mario mechanics. Enemies in this game are not repeated in later entries. Released in 2006. The game set the stage for future 2D Mario games in mechanics and structure.

Super Mario 3D World blends 2D-style stages with 3D movement. Players collect items and find secret exits. Bowser’s Fury adds open-world sections. Controls include running, jumping, and climbing. Multiple characters are selectable, each with similar abilities. The Switch version improves performance and adds features. Levels are linear with exploration elements. Released on Wii U in 2013. The game mixes structured and open exploration in a single title.

New Super Mario Bros. Wii supports up to four players. The Koopalings appear as bosses. Levels include multiple paths and secret areas. Players use power-ups such as the Super Mushroom and Fire Flower. Stages become more challenging in later levels. Cooperative gameplay is central to progression. The game uses standard 2D platforming mechanics. Released for Wii in 2009, it influenced later 2D Mario titles.

Super Mario 64 introduced 3D platforming. Players explore Peach’s Castle and collect Power Stars. Levels include Bob-omb Battlefield, Whomp’s Fortress, and Rainbow Ride. Controls allow jumping, swimming, and running. The camera moves automatically but can be limited in some areas. Stars unlock new sections of the castle. The game was released for Nintendo 64 in 1996. Mechanics such as jumping and collecting items became standard for future 3D Mario games.