Hey there, fellow gamer! Remember that rush when you first stomped on a Goomba or collected your first shiny coin? If you’re like me, Mario games have been a part of your life since childhood. Whether you’re a kid sneaking in playtime after homework or an adult reliving those pixelated adventures, Mario games are timeless. They’ve sold over 900 million copies worldwide, making them the best-selling video game franchise ever. In this guide, we’ll jump into the world of Mario games, covering everything from their origins to the latest 2026 buzz. Let’s-a go!

I still recall my first time playing Super Mario Bros. on an old Nintendo console at a friend’s house. The simple joy of running, jumping, and saving the princess hooked me instantly. That’s the magic of Mario games – they’re easy to pick up but hard to put down. If you’re new or just curious, this post will help you navigate the Mushroom Kingdom without getting lost.

Read More : Best Nintendo Switch Mario Games: Must-Play Titles for Every Fan

The Fascinating History of Mario Games

Mario didn’t start as the star we know today. Back in 1981, he appeared as “Jumpman” in Donkey Kong, an arcade game where he rescued a damsel from a gorilla. Created by Shigeru Miyamoto at Nintendo, it was a hit, saving the company from financial trouble. Fun fact: Mario got his name from Mario Segale, Nintendo’s warehouse landlord – talk about a real-life inspiration!

By 1983, Mario Bros. introduced Luigi and focused on defeating enemies in sewers. But the big boom came in 1985 with Super Mario Bros. for the NES. This platformer set in the Mushroom Kingdom sold millions and defined the genre. Players loved Mario’s jumping skills to progress through levels filled with power-ups like mushrooms and fire flowers.

Over the years, Mario games evolved with technology. The 90s brought Super Mario World on SNES, with Yoshi as a rideable buddy. Then, Super Mario 64 in 1996 revolutionized 3D gaming on the N64, letting you explore open worlds. I’ve spent hours collecting stars in that one – it’s like a virtual playground!

Fast forward to the 2000s: Super Mario Sunshine on GameCube added water-spraying fun, while Super Mario Galaxy on Wii used motion controls for space adventures. Each era built on the last, keeping things fresh. Today, with over 200 titles, Mario games span consoles like the Nintendo Switch, proving Nintendo’s flagship franchise is here to stay.

Types of Mario Games: Something for Every Player

Mario games aren’t just about jumping. The franchise branches into tons of genres, each with its own twist. This variety is why it’s appealing to everyone, from casual players to hardcore fans.

Platformers: The Core of Mario Adventures

The Super Mario series is all about platforming. Think running across levels, avoiding pitfalls, and battling Bowser. Classics like Super Mario Bros. 3 introduced flying with a raccoon tail – I remember practicing that for days!

Newer ones like Super Mario Odyssey (2017) let you possess enemies with Cappy, Mario’s hat. It’s creative and fun. In 2023, Super Mario Bros. Wonder added wonder flowers for trippy level changes. If you’re starting, try these for pure joy.

Racing Thrills with Mario Kart

Who hasn’t yelled during a Mario Kart race? Starting with Super Mario Kart in 1992, this series turns friends into rivals. Power-ups like banana peels and shells add chaos.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on Switch is a bestseller with over 70 million copies sold. The 2025 Mario Kart World on Switch 2 introduces new tracks and food-themed items. Great for parties – just don’t blame me if friendships end over a blue shell!

• Why play? Boosts competition and laughter.
• Tip: Practice drifting for speed boosts.
• Best for: Multiplayer nights with pals.

Party Games: Fun for Groups

Mario Party series, since 1998, mixes board games with minigames. Roll dice, collect stars, and sabotage others. Super Mario Party (2018) and Mario Party Superstars (2021) are hits.

The latest, Super Mario Party Jamboree (2024), added online modes. In 2025, its Switch 2 edition includes Jamboree TV for streaming fun. Perfect for family gatherings – I’ve won (and lost) many stars at holiday parties.

Sports and Puzzles: Active and Brainy Twists

Mario shines in sports too. Mario Tennis Aces (2018) and the upcoming Mario Tennis Fever (February 2026) feature 38 characters and unique rackets. Mario Golf: Super Rush (2021) adds speed golf for fast-paced action.

Puzzle fans love Dr. Mario, where you match capsules to kill viruses, like Tetris with a medical theme. Mario vs. Donkey Kong puzzles involve guiding mini-Marios. These keep your mind sharp without the intensity.

Role-playing games like Paper Mario mix stories with battles. Paper Mario: The Origami King (2020) uses origami twists. Mario & Luigi: Brothership, announced in 2024, promises brotherly teamwork.

Best Mario Games to Play in 2026

With so many options, where do you start? Here are my top picks, based on sales, reviews, and personal fun. These are authoritative choices – many are considered greatest games ever by critics like IGN.

Timeless Classics

• Super Mario Bros. (1985): The original platformer. Simple, addictive, and foundational.
• Super Mario 64 (1996): First 3D Mario. Explore castles and collect stars – a must for history buffs.
• Super Mario Galaxy (2007): Wii gem with gravity-defying planets. A remaster hits Switch in 2025, tying into the 2026 movie.

I’ve replayed these on Nintendo Switch Online, feeling like a kid again. They’re perfect for nostalgia.

Modern Must-Plays

• Super Mario Odyssey: Open-world exploration with hat tricks. Over 20 million sold.
• Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: Ultimate racing with DLC tracks.
• Super Mario Bros. Wonder: 2D innovation with elephant power-ups.

For 2026, watch for Super Mario Bros. Wonder Switch 2 Edition in spring, with enhanced graphics and new meetup modes in Bellabel Park.

Hidden Gems

Don’t skip Luigi’s Mansion series for spooky fun or Yoshi’s Crafted World for cute crafts. WarioWare games offer quick minigames – great for short sessions.

Pro tip: Nintendo Switch Online gives access to classics for cheap. No misleading here – always check compatibility, as some need expansions.

Tips and Tricks for Mastering Mario Games

Want to level up? Mario games reward practice. Start easy: Learn jumps in basic levels. Use power-ups wisely – fire flowers beat tough enemies.

In multiplayer, communicate! In Mario Party, alliances can win stars. For puzzles, think creatively – like folding paper in Paper Mario.

Real-life example: My nephew struggled with bosses until I showed him timing dodges. Now he’s a pro. Keep it fun – Mario’s about enjoyment, not perfection.

• Beginner hack: Save often in longer games.
• Advanced: Speedrun challenges on YouTube for inspiration.
• Health tip: Take breaks to avoid sore thumbs!

The Future of Mario Games: What’s Next in 2026?

Mario keeps evolving. With the Switch 2 out, expect upgrades. Mario Tennis Fever drops February 12, 2026, with massive rosters.

Rumors swirl about a new 3D Mario, maybe Galaxy 3, linking to The Super Mario Galaxy Movie on April 3, 2026. Speculations include Mario Maker 3 for custom levels or more sports like baseball.

Nintendo’s track record shows quality over quantity. They’ve dominated since the 80s, with franchises like Mario Kart selling 150 million+. Trustworthy sources like Nintendo Directs confirm news – avoid unverified leaks.

In movies, after 2023’s The Super Mario Bros. Movie smash (over $1 billion), the galaxy sequel excites fans. Mario’s legacy? Inspiring generations, from arcades to mobiles.

Conclusion

Wrapping up, Mario games are more than pixels – they’re adventures that spark joy and creativity. From Donkey Kong’s humble start to 2026’s high-tech releases, they’ve shaped gaming. Whether you’re chasing stars in Galaxy or racing in Kart, there’s endless fun waiting.

So grab a controller, invite friends, and dive in. Who knows? Your next favorite memory might be just a jump away. Thanks for reading – what’s your top Mario game? Share in the comments!

FAQ Section

Q: What are the best Mario games for beginners?

A: For starters, try classic Mario games like Super Mario Bros. or modern ones like Super Mario Odyssey. These platformers teach jumping basics with fun levels. They’re easy to learn, addictive, and available on Nintendo Switch. Build skills gradually to tackle tougher bosses – perfect for kids or new gamers discovering the Mushroom Kingdom.

Q: How have Mario games evolved over the years?

A: Mario games started as arcade hits like Donkey Kong in 1981, evolving to 3D worlds in Super Mario 64. Now, they include racing in Mario Kart and RPGs like Paper Mario. With over 200 titles, innovations like motion controls keep them fresh. In 2026, expect enhanced Switch 2 versions for even better graphics.

Q: What new Mario games are coming in 2026?

A: Exciting releases include Mario Tennis Fever in February and Super Mario Bros. Wonder Switch 2 Edition in spring. Rumors hint at a new 3D Mario game tied to the Galaxy movie. These build on Nintendo’s legacy, offering multiplayer fun and updated features for fans craving more Mario games action.

Q: Are Mario games suitable for kids?

A: Absolutely! Most Mario games are family-friendly with colorful worlds, simple controls, and positive themes like teamwork. Titles like Mario Party encourage group play without violence. Parents love them for building coordination. Just monitor screen time – they’re engaging but best in moderation for young players.

Q: Where can I play classic Mario games today?

A: Access classic Mario games via Nintendo Switch Online, which includes Super Mario Bros. and Mario Kart originals. Emulators exist but stick to official sources for trustworthiness. Modern remasters like Super Mario 3D All-Stars bundle favorites. It’s a great way to relive nostalgia affordably.