Mario is Nintendo’s flagship mascot, and the Switch library is bursting with adventures starring the mustachioed plumber. This guide walks through the best Nintendo Switch Mario game options across platforming, racing, sports, and party genres so you can find the right fit.
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Quick answer: Our top pick in 2026 is the Super Mario Odyssey — our #1 rated choice. See the full ranked comparison, alternatives and buying advice below.
Which Nintendo Switch Mario Game Should You Play First?
For most players, the ideal first Nintendo Switch Mario game is Super Mario Odyssey, a 3D platforming masterpiece that captures the joy of exploration with its cap-throwing capture mechanic. If you prefer speed, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the definitive kart racer. Families gravitate toward Super Mario Party, while platforming purists adore Super Mario Bros. Wonder. The beauty of the Switch is that whatever style of Mario you crave, there is a top-tier version waiting, each polished to Nintendo’s famously high standard.
3D Platforming Excellence
Super Mario Odyssey redefined the sandbox platformer with inventive kingdoms and hidden Power Moons around every corner. Its vibrant worlds look spectacular on a quality display, and our best gaming monitors guide covers panels that make its colors pop when docked.
Classic 2D Side-Scrolling
Super Mario Bros. Wonder revived 2D Mario with wild Wonder Flower transformations that reshape levels on the fly. It is a joyful return to the series roots. Precise timing matters in these levels, so players using PC emulators often reference our gaming mouse buying guide for responsive controls.
The Best Nintendo Switch Mario Games Ranked
Here are eight essential real Nintendo Switch Mario games spanning every genre the plumber has conquered.
| Game | Platform | Genre | Why It’s Great | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Super Mario Odyssey | Nintendo Switch | 3D Platformer | Inventive capture mechanic and dense worlds | 9.7/10 |
| Super Mario Bros. Wonder | Nintendo Switch | 2D Platformer | Surprising Wonder effects reinvent every level | 9.4/10 |
| Mario Kart 8 Deluxe | Nintendo Switch | Racing | The gold standard of kart racing | 9.5/10 |
| Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury | Nintendo Switch | 3D Platformer | Co-op platforming plus an open-world bonus | 9.3/10 |
| Paper Mario: The Origami King | Nintendo Switch | Action RPG | Charming humor and clever ring puzzles | 8.6/10 |
| Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope | Nintendo Switch | Tactics | Accessible turn-based strategy with charm | 8.7/10 |
| Super Mario Party Jamboree | Nintendo Switch | Party | Packed with minigames and modes | 8.9/10 |
| Mario Golf: Super Rush | Nintendo Switch | Sports | Fast-paced golf with RPG-style adventure | 8.0/10 |
Racing and Sports Spin-Offs
Beyond platforming, Mario dominates the racetrack and sports field. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe alone has sold tens of millions of copies, and its endless replayability makes it a must-own. Fast loading between tracks keeps the momentum going, which is why our best SSD for gaming guide appeals to players who game across multiple platforms.
RPG and Strategy Adventures
Mario also stars in surprisingly deep RPGs and tactics games. Paper Mario and Mario + Rabbids prove the character can anchor thoughtful, systems-driven experiences. Long strategy sessions feel better with an ergonomic setup, and our mechanical keyboard guide covers boards suited to marathon play on PC ports of similar genres.
Getting the Most From Your Nintendo Switch Mario Game Collection
Whether you own one Mario game or a dozen, a few habits maximize enjoyment. Explore thoroughly, since Mario games hide collectibles that unlock bonus content, and revisit favorites in multiplayer for fresh fun.
Multiplayer Modes
Many Switch Mario games shine in local co-op, from 3D World to Mario Kart. Clear voice chat enhances online sessions, and our gaming headset roundup highlights comfortable headsets for extended play with friends.
Performance and Display Setup
Docking your Switch delivers the sharpest image for Mario’s vivid worlds. Players who capture footage for content creation benefit from capable rendering hardware, detailed in our graphics card buying guide, ensuring smooth recordings of every jump and grand prix.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Nintendo Switch Mario game overall?
Super Mario Odyssey is frequently cited as the best overall, praised for its inventive capture mechanic, dense and creative kingdoms, and near-endless collectibles. However, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe rivals it for sheer replay value, so the best choice depends on whether you prefer platforming or racing experiences.
Are Nintendo Switch Mario games good for kids?
Yes, Mario games are among the most family-friendly titles available. They feature intuitive controls, cheerful visuals, and adjustable difficulty, making them ideal for children. Cooperative modes in games like Super Mario 3D World also let parents and kids play together comfortably at any skill level.
How many Mario games are on the Nintendo Switch?
There are dozens of Mario titles on the Switch spanning platforming, racing, sports, party, and RPG genres. The count includes mainline platformers, Mario Kart, Mario Party, Paper Mario, and numerous spin-offs, giving the console one of the deepest Mario libraries of any Nintendo system.
Do I need Nintendo Switch Online for Mario games?
Most Mario games play fully offline, so a subscription is not required for single-player or local multiplayer. However, Nintendo Switch Online is needed for online multiplayer in titles like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and grants access to a library of classic retro Mario games too.
Ready to decide? Our #1 pick for 2026 is the Super Mario Odyssey.
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