Mario has been synonymous with video games since Nintendo burst onto the market in the mid-'80s. He can be found in almost every genre, from kart racing and digital board games to open world and level-based adventure games. The games he features in are also designed with all ages in mind.
The best Nintendo Switch Mario game is Nintendo Super Mario Odyssey. It uses a semi-open world-level design and a combination of straightforward and deviously complex challenges to appeal to gamers of all ages.
Mario has popped up in many game genres through the years.
Nintendo Switch Mario games are sold physically or digitally, and each has its pros and cons.
Most Nintendo Switch Mario games are designed to be enjoyed by players of all ages and skill ranges. Some games include intense challenges aimed at engaging older players that can quickly overwhelm younger players. If the game is rated E10+ rather than E, it’s likely to frustrate younger gamers.
Some Mario games are designed to be played endlessly, while others have a finite amount of content. If you’re looking for something that can be completed and put away, stick to adventure games. If you want the maximum value for your money, grab a party game.
Nintendo Switch Mario games are typically sold for $60 and don’t drop in price over time like other games. You can sometimes find physical copies for $20-$50 during special sales or if purchased used.
A. Most Nintendo video game series, such as Mario, Pokemon and Legend of Zelda, remain highly popular and influential for years after their initial release. Demand rarely slows to the point where price cuts are issued to continue selling copies. Even used Nintendo games sold through secondary websites such as eBay or resellers such as GameStop rarely have prices more than $10 less than a new copy. In fact, many Nintendo games, especially Mario ones, become more expensive the older they get as copies become harder to find.
A. Yes, many Mario games have cooperative or competitive modes. Many games are designed with the competitive multiplayer in mind, such as the Mario Party or Mario Kart series. Cooperative modes are usually found as minor inclusions in single-player focused Mario games.
What you need to know: It’s perfect for players of all ages, and two people can play together — one as Mario and the other as his companion Cappy.
What you’ll love: Younger players will love the bright colors and easy-to-understand, moment-to-moment gameplay. Older players will appreciate the post-game challenges designed to push their skills to the limit.
What you should consider: Despite the game being five years old, physical and digital copies are still listed at full price. The early stages of the game may be overly simplistic for some players.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Nintendo Super Mario 3D All-Stars
What you need to know: This collection includes three of the most beloved Mario games from years past.
What you’ll love: This package includes three games — 1996’s Super Mario 64, 2002’s Super Mario Sunshine and 2007’s Super Mario Galaxy. Combined, the games make for 100 hours of gameplay or more. Physical copies are considered a collector's item, so the value may increase over time.
What you should consider: It was originally sold during a limited-time event, meaning digital copy codes are no longer printed, and physical copies can be hard to find.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
What you need to know: It’s the best for family-friendly game nights.
What you’ll love: It contains a mix of new and classic tracks to race on for a total of 48, plus more tracks are available for purchase through the end of 2023. It has 42 total characters to race, as selected from Mario’s history and other Nintendo game series.
What you should consider: Many of the tracks and characters must be unlocked by completing challenges in the game. Karts can be customized, which may be overwhelming to young players.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Jordan C. Woika writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
