Super Mario Games On Nintendo Switch: A Complete Guide

Why Mario Still Matters on the Switch

Mario isn’t just a mascot; he’s a design philosophy that has shaped platforming for three decades. On the Switch, his games feel fresh because the console blends handheld convenience with home‑console power. That means you can dash through a level on the couch, then pick up the Joy‑Cons and continue the adventure on the train without missing a beat.

It also matters that Nintendo has embraced backward compatibility. Many classic Mario adventures have been polished, re‑released, or bundled, giving newcomers a chance to experience the evolution of the series without hunting down aging cartridges.

Core Platformers You Can’t Miss

Super Mario Odyssey

Odyssey is the crown jewel of the Switch era. Its open‑world kingdoms invite exploration, while the new “Cappy” mechanic adds a playful twist to power‑ups. You’ll find hidden moons tucked behind seemingly ordinary objects—sometimes a pipe, sometimes a stray Goomba.

What makes it stand out is the balance between casual fun and deep mastery. You can finish the main story in a few hours, but perfecting every challenge can keep you busy for weeks.

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury

The original 3D World arrived on Wii U, but the Switch version bundles it with the brand‑new Bowser’s Fury. The former shines in its co‑op mode; four players can share one screen, shouting advice—or accidental sabotage—while navigating vibrant stages.

Bowser’s Fury feels like a love letter to “Super Mario 64,” with a massive, open island you roam in real time. The dynamic day‑night cycle and a looming, ever‑growing Fury Bowser add a mild urgency that’s oddly satisfying.

New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe

If a retro‑style side‑scroller is more your speed, this title packs eight classic levels plus the “New Super Luigi” mode, which flips gravity and ramps up difficulty. Two‑player co‑op feels surprisingly tight, and the added “Boost Mode” cranks the speed to a level that even seasoned speedrunners love.

Classic Titles Reimagined for the Switch

• Super Mario 64 – The 3D pioneer arrives with motion‑controlled aiming that feels natural on modern hardware.
• Super Mario Sunshine – Though still Wii‑only, the Switch’s streaming capabilities allow you to play it via Nintendo Switch Online’s “Expansion Pack,” immersing you in the sunny world of Isle Delfino.
• Super Mario Galaxy and Galaxy 2 – Both are available through the same online subscription, delivering gravity‑defying platforming in the palm of your hand.

These remasters aren’t just nostalgic; they’re technically sound. Load times shrink dramatically, and the crisp 1080p output on the docked mode makes each star‑filled sky pop.

Mario’s Racing and Party Spin‑offs

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

It’s hard to talk about Mario on Switch without mentioning Kart. Deluxe adds all previous DLC, a revamped battle mode, and the ever‑useful “smart steering” for beginners. Whether you’re battling friends locally or racing online, the game scales flawlessly.

Super Mario Party

Party games thrive on social interaction, and this title delivers with a mix of classic board‑game mechanics and fresh mini‑games that exploit the Joy‑Con’s motion sensors. Even a single player can find value in the “Mii Party” mode, which rolls the dice for you.

Hidden Gems and Lesser‑Known Entries

Beyond the headline titles, the Switch houses a few surprises. Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle blends turn‑based strategy with Mario’s world, offering a quirky yet surprisingly deep experience. Dr. Mario World, though a mobile title, can be played on the Switch via the web browser, letting you match capsules while waiting for a bus.

For fans of platforming challenges, Mario’s Picross (available through the eShop) offers puzzle‑solving in a familiar aesthetic, and the indie‑style Super Mario Run remains playable through retro‑compatible modes.

How to Choose the Right Game for Your Playstyle

• Exploration lover? Start with Super Mario Odyssey or Bowser’s Fury for sprawling worlds.
• Co‑op enthusiast? Grab Super Mario 3D World or Super Mario Party for instant multiplayer fun.
• Speedrunner? Dive into New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe or the classic Super Mario 64 for tight controls and high‑skill potential.
• Casual racer? Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the obvious pick, especially with its robust online community.
• Strategist? Give Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle a try; it’s a surprising fusion of tactics and humor.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Mario on Switch

First, enable “Auto‑Save” in the system settings. It’s easy to forget to manually save after a long run, and a sudden power loss could erase precious progress.

Second, explore the “Assist Mode” options. Whether it’s auto‑aim in Super Mario Odyssey or “Smart Steering” in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, these tools make the games more accessible without diluting the core challenge.

Third, invest in a Pro Controller if you plan to spend hours in high‑intensity races. The larger grips and analog sticks give a subtle edge in precision steering.

Finally, don’t overlook the Switch Online “Expansion Pack.” It’s a low‑cost subscription that unlocks the full catalog of 3D Mario titles, turning your console into a portable museum of platforming history.