Best Nintendo Switch Mario Games: Must-Play Titles for Every Fan
Hey kids and gamers at heart! Imagine this: You’re holding your Nintendo Switch, ready to jump, stomp, and race through colorful worlds with Mario and his pals. It’s like having a pocket-sized adventure park! Since the Switch launched back in 2017, it’s become the go-to spot for all things Mario. With over 40 games mixing jumps, puzzles, and laughs, it’s the biggest Mario collection ever on one console.
Whether you’re battling Bowser or partying with friends, these Nintendo Switch Mario games bring pure fun. Let’s dive in and explore why they’re so awesome – I’ll share my favorites, tips from playing them, and what’s new in 2026. Stick around; it’s going to be a super ride!
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Why the Nintendo Switch is Mario’s Best Home Yet
Picture this: You’re on a long car ride, but instead of boredom, you’re exploring kingdoms in Super Mario Odyssey. That’s the magic of the Switch – it goes anywhere! Mario games shine here because of the handheld mode, perfect for quick plays, and TV mode for family nights. Plus, Joy-Con controllers make multiplayer a breeze; just detach and share.
From my experience, nothing beats gathering friends for a Mario Kart race. The Switch has sold millions, and Mario titles like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe top the charts with over 60 million copies. It’s not just numbers; these games mix old-school charm with fresh twists, like online play through Nintendo Switch Online. If you’re new, start simple – no need to be a pro. And hey, with backward compatibility on the upcoming Switch 2, your collection lasts forever. But remember, some exclusives need the new hardware.
Mario’s history on Switch started strong and keeps growing. Early hits set the stage, and now in 2026, remakes and spin-offs keep it fresh. Semantic buddies like “Mario platformers on Switch” or “best Mario racing games” lead folks here, and trust me, we’ve got it all covered.
Top Platformer Mario Games for Epic Jumps and Adventures
Who doesn’t love running, jumping, and collecting coins? Platformers are Mario’s bread and butter, and the Switch has some gems. These games let you explore worlds, solve puzzles, and feel like a hero.
Take Super Mario Odyssey (2017) – it’s like a vacation with Mario! You throw your hat, Cappy, to control enemies and find over 900 moons. I remember spending hours in New Donk City, dancing with locals. It’s open-world fun, priced at $59.99, and perfect for solo explorers.
Then there’s Super Mario Bros. Wonder (2023), where Wonder Flowers flip levels upside down – one minute you’re an elephant, next a balloon! With 12 characters and badge challenges, it’s great for families. My tip: Play co-op; laughs guaranteed. Costs $59.99, and a Switch 2 edition hits autumn 2026 with extras like Bellabel Park meetups.
Don’t miss Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury (2021). Four-player chaos in cat suits, plus an open-zone expansion where you battle giant Bowser. It’s $59.99 and super replayable. For classics, New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe (2019) offers 2D multiplayer with Toadette – easy for beginners, tough for pros.
And fresh off the press: Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 bundle (2025). Gravity-flipping space adventures with HD upgrades. I played the originals as a kid; these feel nostalgic yet new. Priced at $69.99, it’s a must for 3D fans.
Racing and Party Mario Games for Multiplayer Mayhem
Ready to rev engines or roll dice? These Nintendo Switch Mario games turn any gathering into a blast. They’re all about friendly competition and silly moments.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (2017) rules the road with 96 tracks, including DLC. Over 60 million sold – that’s huge! Race as your fave character, use items like shells, and play online. At $59.99 plus $24.99 DLC, it’s worth it. I once lost a family tournament to a banana peel – classic!
For parties, Super Mario Party Jamboree (2024) has 110 minigames and 7 boards. The Switch 2 edition adds Jamboree TV with voice controls. Fun for all ages, $59.99. Or try Mario Party Superstars (2021), remaking N64 favorites – pure nostalgia.
Sports spin-offs like Mario Tennis Aces (2018) add story modes and energy shots. Mario Golf: Super Rush (2021) has Speed Golf for fast-paced action. Both $59.99, great for casual play. And Mario Strikers: Battle League (2022) brings tackle-heavy soccer with gear upgrades.
Upcoming? Mario Kart World (2025) is Switch 2 exclusive with free roaming and weather effects. Exciting!
RPG and Spin-Off Mario Games for Deeper Stories
Mario isn’t just jumps; he’s got brains too! RPGs and spin-offs add strategy and tales, perfect for thoughtful play.
Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door remake (2024) is a turn-based gem with audience mechanics and badges. Hunt for Crystal Stars in Rogueport – hilarious writing! $59.99, and I love the paper craft style.
Super Mario RPG (2023) remakes the SNES classic with timed hits and Yoko Shimomura’s tunes. Team up with Geno against Smithy – charming and fun. Also $59.99.
For adventures, Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD (2024) has ghost-hunting puzzles. Luigi’s Mansion 3 (2019) explores a haunted hotel with Gooigi. Both $59.99, spooky but not scary.
Princess Peach: Showtime! (2024) stars Peach in theater roles like detective or swordfighter. Empowering and creative, $59.99.
Crossovers? Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope (2022) mixes tactics with humor, $59.99. And Mario & Luigi: Brothership (2024) sails through Concordia with duo attacks.
Classic Mario Games on Nintendo Switch Online
Want old-school vibes? Nintendo Switch Online ($19.99/year, Expansion Pack $49.99) unlocks over 20 classics. No extra buy needed!
- NES: Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros. 2, Super Mario Bros. 3 – where it all began!
- SNES: Super Mario World, Yoshi’s Island – ride Yoshi and explore.
- N64: Super Mario 64, Mario Kart 64 – 3D pioneers.
- GBA: Super Mario Advance series – enhanced ports.
- Game Boy: Super Mario Land 1/2 – portable origins.
These save progress and have online leaderboards. Perfect for reliving childhood or showing kids the roots. Disclaimer: Subscription required; not all games available everywhere.
Upcoming Mario Games on Nintendo Switch in 2026
2026 is buzzing! With Switch 2 out, expect upgrades and newbies.
Mario Tennis Fever (Feb 2026) serves aces with fever modes and new courts, $59.99.
Yoshi & the Mysterious Book (2026) flips pages in puzzle-platforming worlds.
Super Mario Bros. Wonder Switch 2 Edition (Autumn 2026) adds meetups and enhancements.
Remakes dominate, but whispers of a new 3D Mario tease big things. Stay tuned – Nintendo loves surprises!
Comprehensive Mario Games List on Nintendo Switch
| Title | Release Date | Genre | Price (USD) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mario Kart 8 Deluxe | Apr 2017 | Racing | $59.99 | 96 tracks, multiplayer king. |
| Super Mario Odyssey | Oct 2017 | 3D Platformer | $59.99 | Open-world with Cappy. |
| Super Mario Party | Oct 2018 | Party | $59.99 | 80 minigames, co-op. |
| New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe | Jan 2019 | 2D Platformer | $59.99 | Multiplayer with 164 levels. |
| Super Mario Maker 2 | Jun 2019 | Creator | $59.99 | Build and share levels. |
| Luigi’s Mansion 3 | Oct 2019 | Adventure | $59.99 | Hotel ghost-hunting. |
| Paper Mario: The Origami King | Jul 2020 | RPG | $59.99 | Ring puzzles. |
| Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury | Feb 2021 | 3D Platformer | $59.99 | Cat suits, open-zone. |
| Mario Party Superstars | Oct 2021 | Party | $59.99 | N64 remakes. |
| Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope | Oct 2022 | Strategy | $59.99 | Open combat. |
| Super Mario Bros. Wonder | Oct 2023 | 2D Platformer | $59.99 | Wonder Flowers. |
| Super Mario RPG | Nov 2023 | RPG | $59.99 | SNES remake. |
| Princess Peach: Showtime! | Mar 2024 | Adventure | $59.99 | Role-playing stages. |
| Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door | May 2024 | RPG | $59.99 | Remake with badges. |
| Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD | Jun 2024 | Adventure | $59.99 | 3DS remake. |
| Super Mario Party Jamboree | Oct 2024 | Party | $59.99 | 110 minigames. |
| Mario & Luigi: Brothership | Nov 2024 | RPG | $59.99 | Sea voyages. |
| Donkey Kong Country Returns HD | Jan 2025 | Platformer | $59.99 | Wii port. |
| Mario Kart World | Jun 2025 | Racing | $79.99 | Switch 2 exclusive. |
| Super Mario Galaxy Bundle | Oct 2025 | 3D Platformer | $69.99 | Wii remasters. |
| Mario Tennis Fever | Feb 2026 | Sports | $59.99 | New fever mechanics. |
This table covers majors; prices from eShop, may vary. More in Nintendo Switch Online classics.
Wrapping up, Nintendo Switch Mario games are timeless treasures that spark joy for all ages. From heart-pounding races to clever puzzles, they’ve evolved while keeping that classic Mario magic. As we hit 2026, with Switch 2 bringing sharper graphics and new titles, the fun never stops. Grab your controller, invite friends, and jump in – the Mushroom Kingdom awaits!
But hey, gaming’s personal; what works for me might differ for you. Always check ratings for age-appropriate picks, and take breaks to avoid sore thumbs. With so many options, there’s no wrong choice. What’s your top Mario game? Share in the comments – let’s chat adventures!
FAQ Section
Q: What are the best Nintendo Switch Mario games for beginners?
A: Start with Super Mario Odyssey for easy 3D exploration or New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe for simple 2D jumps. Both have forgiving modes and co-op, making them fun without frustration. Priced at $59.99 each, they’re family-friendly and teach basics like jumping and power-ups naturally.
Q: How many Nintendo Switch Mario games are there in 2026?
A: Over 40, including platformers, RPGs, and classics via Nintendo Switch Online. New additions like Mario Tennis Fever and Super Mario Bros. Wonder Switch 2 Edition expand the list. Check the eShop for the latest – it’s the richest Mario library ever!
Q: Are there free Nintendo Switch Mario games?
A: Yes, through Nintendo Switch Online! Classics like Super Mario Bros. and Mario Kart 64 are included with a subscription ($19.99/year). Demos for titles like Princess Peach: Showtime! let you try before buying, adding value without extra cost.
Q: What’s new in Nintendo Switch Mario games for 2026?
A: Exciting releases include Mario Tennis Fever (Feb) with intense sports action and Yoshi & the Mysterious Book for puzzle fun. Upgrades like Super Mario Party Jamboree Switch 2 Edition enhance multiplayer. Stay updated via Nintendo’s site for announcements.
Q: Can I play old Nintendo Switch Mario games on Switch 2?
A: Absolutely! Backward compatibility means all your favorites like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe work seamlessly. Some get enhancements, like better graphics in Super Mario Galaxy bundle. It’s a smooth transition for your collection.
