The best Super Mario games have marked generations and defined the platform genre as we know it today. Since his debut in the 80s, the mustachioed plumber has become a video game icon, starring in unforgettable adventures. His journey has evolved over the decades, bringing graphic innovations, refined mechanics and increasingly vibrant worlds, securing his place in the hearts of gamers.
With each new title, Nintendo has perfected the Mario formula, surprising fans with creative gameplay and captivating challenges. But what are the biggest highlights of this legendary trajectory? In this list, we've gathered the 9 best games in the Mario franchise according to Metacritic. Get ready to revisit classics and discover which titles earned the highest scores and see if your favorite is among them!
Super Mario 64 – 1996
Released in 1996 for the Nintendo 64, Super Mario 64 revolutionized the franchise by taking the most famous plumber in gaming to a fully three-dimensional world. The game introduced innovative gameplay, allowing players to explore open scenarios with complete freedom. In addition, it introduced new mechanics, such as different types of jumps and the use of special hats that granted Mario unique abilities.
Considered one of the best Super Mario games, this classic set new standards for 3D platform games and remains a reference to this day. Critics praised its fluid gameplay, creative level design, and immersive gameplay, earning it an 85 on Metacritic. Even decades after its release, Super Mario 64 continues to delight players, cementing its place among the most influential titles in history.
Luigi's Mansion 3 – 2019
Although the protagonist here is not the iconic plumber in red, Luigi's Mansion 3 has earned its place among the best Super Mario games. Released for Nintendo Switch, the game places Luigi in a haunted mansion, where he must capture ghosts using the Poltergust device. With interactive scenarios and clever puzzles, the adventure balances humor and mystery, offering a unique experience within the Mario universe.
The title stands out for its 17 themed levels and multiplayer mode, which allows up to eight players to face off or collaborate in fun challenges. In addition to being a critical success, Luigi's Mansion 3 received the award for “Best Family Game” in 2019 and received a score of 86 on Metacritic. With stunning visuals and refined mechanics, this is a must-play game for any fan of the franchise.
Super Mario Maker – 2015
Among the best Super Mario games, Super Mario Maker stands out for offering a completely different experience from the traditional titles in the franchise. Available for Wii U and Nintendo 3DS, the game allows players to create their own levels using classic elements from different Super Mario eras. With visual styles ranging from Super Mario Bros. to the modern New Super Mario Bros. U, creativity is the big difference here.
In addition to creating levels, players can share their levels online, creating endless challenges within the community. However, in order to publish a level, it is necessary to prove it, ensuring that it is playable. This system has made Super Mario Maker a true proving ground for skilled players, earning a score of 88 on Metacritic and consolidating itself as one of the most innovative titles in the series.
New Super Mario Bros. – 2006
Among the best Super Mario games, New Super Mario Bros. stands out as a milestone in the franchise, bringing classic 2D platform gameplay to new generations. Released for Wii U and Nintendo DS, the game mixed three-dimensional elements with the traditional style, introducing innovative mechanics such as the triple jump and the two-dimensional ground pound.
These additions modernized the experience while maintaining the essence of the previous games. Despite criticisms of its simplicity, New Super Mario Bros. was a huge commercial success, starting a new series of titles with the word "New" in the name.
The fluid gameplay and nostalgia combined with innovation won over fans, resulting in an 89 rating on Metacritic. The game helped revitalize the platforming genre, earning its place among the franchise's greatest hits.
Super Mario Sunshine – 2002
Super Mario Sunshine is one of the best Super Mario games with its unique and fun gameplay. Released for the Nintendo GameCube, the game was the second 3D title in the franchise and featured a new theme: Mario on vacation on a tropical island called Delfino. Using a water jet, the player is challenged to clean up the island and face the villain Shadow Mario, while also having to rescue Princess Peach.
This new concept of water mechanics became one of the game's biggest highlights. In addition to its innovative gameplay, Super Mario Sunshine also impressed with its vibrant and creative aesthetics, which contrasted with previous titles.
The Metacritic rating of 92 reflects the positive reception, with critics highlighting the game's bold exploration of new mechanics and fun atmosphere. The tropical setting and variety of challenges offered made the game a memorable experience for Mario fans and marked a significant step forward for the series.
Super Mario World – 1990
Super Mario World is undoubtedly one of the best Super Mario games, released in 1990 for the Super Nintendo. The game's dynamics bring an expansive world full of vibrant colors, with a series of new features, such as the iconic cape that allows Mario to fly. In addition, it introduced transformations such as Fire Mario, expanding the gameplay options and making each level unique.
The game also stands out for its secret stages, accessible through hidden paths and multiple exits, offering players an experience full of discoveries. The 92 rating on Metacritic attests to its immense popularity and quality.
Super Mario World not only cemented the Super Nintendo as one of the most beloved consoles, but also left a historic mark on platform games. The combination of challenging gameplay, charming graphics and an unforgettable soundtrack made this title a timeless classic that continues to be a reference for fans of the series.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – 2017
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is one of the best Super Mario games, released for the Nintendo Switch as an enhanced version of Mario Kart 8, originally from the Wii U. The game's dynamics offer an immersive racing experience with new items, mechanics and characters, taking the franchise to a new level.
With 42 playable characters and around 50 challenging tracks, the game allows players to enjoy a variety of gameplay, as well as exciting cups to compete in. With a rating of 92 on Metacritic, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe has won over critics and fans alike, becoming one of the most beloved titles in the series.
The addition of all the DLC characters from the previous version, combined with stunning graphics and fluid gameplay, makes it one of the best options for racing fans and fans of the Mario franchise. The gaming experience has never been so complete, with challenges for all types of players.
Super Mario Bros. 3 – 1988
Super Mario Bros. 3 is undoubtedly one of the best Super Mario games, released in 1988 for the NES (Nintendo). The game features notable innovations, such as the famous suit that allows Mario to fly, as well as new enemies and obstacles that increase the complexity of the levels. The game mechanics have been improved, taking the franchise to a higher level, with challenging levels and several power-ups that enrich the gameplay.
With a Metacritic rating of 94, Super Mario Bros. 3 has earned its place as one of the most iconic titles in the franchise and became one of the best-selling games of all time, with 17 million copies sold on the NES. Its innovative gameplay, stunning graphics for the time, and new features continue to be celebrated as a milestone in the platforming genre.
Super Mario Odyssey – 2017
Super Mario Odyssey, released in 2017 for the Nintendo Switch, is considered one of the best Super Mario games due to its innovative gameplay and creative use of the Cappy hat. Instead of following the traditional format, the game allows Mario to travel through different worlds to collect Power Moons, while having enemies and objects to use his abilities.
This element of exploration and interaction with the environment was a big differentiator, attracting both new players and longtime fans of all Mario games. With a rating of 97 on Metacritic, Super Mario Odyssey was widely acclaimed by critics, receiving awards such as “Game of the Year”.
Its stunning visual design and memorable soundtrack helped make the game stand out even more on the Nintendo Switch. It not only broke new ground within the franchise, but also established itself as one of the series' greatest hits, representing the best of all Mario games.
Conclusion
And these are the best Super Mario games according to critics. But what about your opinion? Which Mario game is the best for you? Share with us in the comments! Also, be sure to check out our article on the best online mobile games and the video we have prepared especially for you!
