There’s no denying it – Mario is the undisputed king of video games. For nearly four decades, he’s jumped, stomped, and powered-up his way into our hearts. But with so many incredible games across consoles, handhelds, and even genres, which ones truly stand out as the best? In this list, we’re diving headfirst into the Mushroom Kingdom to rank the 15 best Mario games of all time. Each entry gets its proper due – at least 10 sentences to explore what makes it great, memorable, and totally worth your time.
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1. Super Mario Odyssey
Super Mario Odyssey is Mario at his most creative, most adventurous, and honestly, most joyful. The sheer variety of worlds – ranging from a realistic New Donk City to a food-themed kingdom – is unmatched. Each location is bursting with secrets, platforming challenges, and delightful characters.
Then there’s Cappy, Mario’s sentient hat and game-changer. Capturing enemies to use their abilities flips the Mario formula on its head in the best way. It’s inventive without feeling gimmicky. The movement is buttery smooth, offering so much freedom and precision for speedrunners and casual players alike.
Every kingdom feels handcrafted and dense with things to do. Even the post-game content is ridiculously rewarding. It’s not just one of the best Mario games – it’s one of the best 3D platformers ever made.
2. Super Mario 64
The game that defined 3D platforming. Super Mario 64 took a massive risk transitioning from 2D to 3D and absolutely nailed it. From the moment you leap out of the castle grounds, it’s clear this is something special.
The analog stick movement, dynamic camera (controlled by Lakitu, of all things), and open-world level design felt revolutionary. Each world had its own vibe, from the haunted Boo’s Mansion to the underwater beauty of Jolly Roger Bay.
The sense of exploration was unlike anything before. Stars weren’t handed to you—you had to earn them through puzzle-solving, platforming, and sometimes just pure curiosity.
Even today, it holds up remarkably well. Without this game, modern 3D games wouldn’t look the same.
3. Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door
This isn’t your average Mario game. Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door blends witty writing, turn-based combat, and charming visuals into something truly unforgettable. The story is surprisingly deep and filled with quirky humor.
Combat is interactive – you’re not just selecting attacks, you’re timing button presses, dodging, and using special moves. Every party member is distinct and useful, from Goombella’s tattling to Vivian’s shadow abilities.
The world feels alive, with towns full of personality and clever environmental puzzles. Plus, the paper mechanics are fun and smartly integrated.
It’s a Mario RPG that doesn’t rely on nostalgia -it creates its own magic. Still one of the most beloved titles among fans for good reason.
4. Super Mario Bros. 3
If you were around during the NES era, Super Mario Bros. 3 was the game. It took everything from the original and made it bigger, better, and more ambitious. World maps? Power-up suits? Airship bosses? All introduced here.
Every world feels unique, from the desert sands to the giant-themed levels. The Tanooki Suit, Hammer Suit, and Frog Suit added layers of strategy and fun.
The controls are sharp, the level design is brilliant, and it oozes polish. This was a technical marvel on the NES.
Even today, it’s a joy to play. Nostalgia aside, this game holds up incredibly well.
5. Super Mario Galaxy 2
The original Galaxy was great. Galaxy 2? A masterclass. This game refines every mechanic from the first while throwing in even more crazy ideas.
You’ve got gravity-flipping levels, Yoshi rides, and dozens of unique power-ups. Every galaxy feels like its own contained masterpiece. The level design is tight, creative, and constantly surprises you.
Even with the Wii’s limited power, the visuals are stunning. The orchestrated soundtrack is jaw-dropping.
It’s the kind of game that reminds you why you love video games.
6. Super Mario World
A true SNES classic. Super Mario World introduced us to Yoshi and gave us a massive, interconnected map to explore. It’s packed with secrets—Star Road, hidden exits, and tons of unlockables.
The control feels absolutely perfect. Mario’s movement is tight, jumps are precise, and every level feels handcrafted.
The art style still looks great, and the music is timeless. It’s one of those games you can replay endlessly and still find joy.
It’s not just one of the best Mario games – it’s one of the best games, period.
7. Super Mario Galaxy
Before Odyssey or Galaxy 2, there was the original Super Mario Galaxy, and it was a game-changer. The idea of platforming on tiny planets with their own gravity was genius.
Mario’s movement felt fluid, and the game managed to feel fresh all the way through. The storybook aesthetic, Rosalina’s backstory, and the orchestral score added unexpected emotion.
It pushed the Wii to its limits in the best way. Every galaxy felt different and memorable.
A must-play for any fan of 3D platformers.
8. Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury
Two great games in one. Super Mario 3D World is a co-op joy – tight levels, smart design, and the adorable Cat Suit. Every character feels different, adding replay value.
Then there’s Bowser’s Fury, an open-world experiment that actually works. It’s fast-paced, experimental, and surprisingly meaty.
The blend of structured and open gameplay is exciting. Add gorgeous visuals and smooth performance on the Switch, and you’ve got a winning combo.
This bundle is a must-have.
9. Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island
This one’s technically a Yoshi game, but it’s absolutely worth including. Yoshi’s Island flips the script – you play as Yoshi escorting Baby Mario.
The art style is unique and beautiful, with a hand-drawn, crayon look. The gameplay introduces flutter jumps, egg throws, and transformation mechanics.
It’s challenging in its own way, and the boss fights are fantastic. The levels are clever, and the game oozes charm.
Don’t let the baby crying fool you – this one’s a classic.
10. Super Mario Sunshine
A bit of a black sheep, but still beloved by many. Sunshine gave Mario a water-powered jetpack (FLUDD) and sent him to a tropical island. The result? A weird but wonderful adventure.
The platforming is more technical, the setting is vibrant, and the game’s tone is totally unique. It’s not perfect – the camera can be annoying, and the voice acting is… interesting.
But it’s ambitious and packed with memorable moments. Some of the challenge levels without FLUDD are still fan favorites.
Give it a second chance – it might surprise you.
11. Super Mario Bros.
The original that started it all. Super Mario Bros. changed gaming forever. Its side-scrolling design, power-ups, and hidden secrets blew people’s minds in 1985.
Sure, it’s simple by today’s standards. But it’s still a joy to play. The level design teaches without tutorials, and the difficulty ramps up just right.
Every gamer should play it at least once. It’s gaming history.
12. Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars
Mario in a turn-based RPG? Sounds strange, but Super Mario RPG made it work beautifully. With help from Square (yes, that Square), this SNES gem combined Mario charm with Final Fantasy mechanics.
The story is funny, the combat is timing-based and interactive, and the original characters like Geno and Mallow became instant fan favorites.
It’s colorful, clever, and packed with personality. The music is outstanding too.
It’s a unique piece of Mario history that still holds a special place in fans’ hearts.
13. New Super Mario Bros.
2D Mario returned in style with New Super Mario Bros. on the DS. It was a big deal at the time – a fresh take on the original formula with new moves and a modern look.
Wall jumps, Mega Mushrooms, and new boss fights added spice. The levels were varied and full of clever tricks.
It spawned an entire sub-series for a reason. It’s approachable, fun, and polished.
A solid entry that reminded everyone why they fell in love with Mario.
14. Super Mario Maker 2
Ever wanted to make your own Mario levels? Super Mario Maker 2 lets you do just that. It’s a dream come true for creative players.
You can build in multiple styles, from classic NES to 3D World. The tools are deep but easy to use. And the online level library? Endless.
Nintendo even added a solid story mode with dev-made levels. It’s the ultimate playground for Mario fans.
15. Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope
A wild mashup that works way better than it should. Sparks of Hope is a tactical RPG that combines Mario charm with XCOM-style combat.
You explore beautiful planets, solve puzzles, and engage in turn-based battles with surprising depth. Each character has unique skills, and the Sparks system adds customization.
It’s funny, colorful, and weird – in the best way. The strategy elements are deep enough for veterans, but approachable for newcomers.
A bold, lovable twist on the Mario formula.
Final Thoughts
From pixelated pipes to galactic journeys, Mario has never stopped evolving. Each game in this list offers something different – whether it’s heart, challenge, creativity, or pure platforming perfection. No matter where you start, you’re in for a legendary ride. So grab a mushroom, hop on Yoshi, and keep on jumping!
