HT Games
There’s no single "best" Mario game—each excels in a different lane. Tell me what you enjoy and I’ll pinpoint your ideal entry.
| If You Want… | Play This |
|---|---|
| Pure 2D Platforming Perfection | Super Mario World (SNES/NSO) or Super Mario Bros. Wonder (Switch) |
| Best 3D Exploration | Super Mario Odyssey (Switch) – creativity, density, joy |
| Classic 3D Linear | Super Mario Galaxy 1 & 2 (Wii/NSO/Switch) – gravity, music, polish |
| Multiplayer Chaos | NSMB U Deluxe (Switch) or Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury |
| RPG Story + Humor | Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story (3DS/NSO) or Paper Mario: TTYD (GCN/Switch) |
| Racing | Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (Switch) – definitive |
| Sports / Party | Mario Strikers: Battle League, Mario Party Superstars |
| Challenge / Speedrun | Super Mario Maker 2 (endless levels) or Celeste (not Mario, same DNA) |
| Nostalgia (NES/SNES) | Super Mario Bros. 3 or Super Mario World (NSO/VC) |
Tell me: 2D or 3D? Solo or co-op? Story or pure gameplay? Modern or retro? Switch only, or emulation/VC okay?