Top 10 Underrated Mario Games – A Second Look at Mario Classics
Introduction
When it comes to highly acclaimed series like Super Mario or The Legend of Zelda, it feels almost unfair to title any of their entries as ‘underrated’. These are games that have been thoroughly analyzed, considered, and reconsidered by players and critics alike. However, there are certain Mario games that have perhaps been overlooked or not given the recognition they deserve. Whether due to being overshadowed by their predecessors, releasing at an unfortunate time, or deviating from the norm, these games deserve a second look. Here, we present our list of the top 10 most ‘underrated’ Mario games.
1. New Super Mario Bros. Wii
The first 2D entry to arrive on a home console since Mario World, New Super Mario Bros. Wii introduced chaotic four-player local multiplayer and paid homage to the series’ past. It brought new life to old-school platforming and offered an absolute blast for both Mario fans and newcomers. Despite some initial skepticism, the game has proven to be a standout title with clever designs and the introduction of fun power-ups like Penguin Mario. It truly deserves recognition for evolving the 2D formula and refreshing the series.
2. Super Paper Mario
Super Paper Mario blended the classic platforming of its predecessors with RPG elements and introduced a unique world-flipping mechanic. Despite the divisive reception among series fans, the Wii entry delivered fiendish puzzles, delightful weirdness, and a compelling story that sets it apart from other Mario games. Though it may deviate from Thousand-Year Door’s formula, its quirky nature and genre blend create a memorable and unique experience that deserves a second look.
3. Mario Hoops 3 on 3
Mario Hoops 3 on 3, known as Mario Slam Basketball in Europe, was a standout handheld title that offered a fun and vibrant sporting experience. With inventive controls, colorful visuals, and the inclusion of Final Fantasy characters, the game stood out as an underrated gem. Its multiplayer mode, especially when played with a friend, provided hours of fun and showcased the Mario franchise’s versatility.
4. Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story + Bowser Jr.’s Journey
This enhanced version of the DS original marked the 3DS’s great swansong. Mario & Luigi: Bowser’s Inside Story + Bowser Jr.’s Journey offered an updated and visually appealing adventure with a brand-new side story and polished gameplay mechanics. It successfully captured all the charm and wit that made the original game beloved by fans, offering a must-play experience for both longtime Mario & Luigi RPG series fans and new players.
5. Mario Strikers: Battle League
Renowned for its competitive game design, Mario Strikers: Battle League may not have garnered the attention it deserved. With exhilarating gameplay and subsequent post-launch updates that improved the game’s content, this arcade-style sports game is a must-play for both Mario and sports game enthusiasts. Its charm and well-balanced gameplay make it one of the Switch’s hidden gems.
6. Super Mario Land
Released for the Game Boy in 1989, Super Mario Land was an initially quaint attempt at translating Mario’s platforming to the handheld console. Developed by Gunpei Yokoi’s team, it offered a surreal and distinct take on the Mario formula. While it differs from other entries, featuring shorter levels and unique gameplay mechanics, Super Mario Land’s influence on the series’ iconography cannot be denied. Playing this game once will allow players to experience Mario’s humble portable beginnings and appreciate its cracking music.
7. Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope
While it may be less popular than its predecessors, Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope offers a captivating and enjoyable adventure. It proves to be a must-play for both Mario and strategy game enthusiasts. The game’s unique blend of puzzles, quests, and memorable locales showcases the collaborative efforts of Ubisoft and Nintendo, resulting in a game that shouldn’t go unnoticed.
8. Mario Tennis Aces
Despite the disappointment of Mario Tennis: Ultra Smash, Mario Tennis Aces redeems the series with its superb gameplay, rich player options, and captivating Adventure Mode. The game’s upgraded presentation, absorbing tennis action, and improved mechanics make it one of the best sports games on the Switch. It’s a significant improvement that deserves recognition for revitalizing the Mario Tennis series.
9. Super Mario Bros. 2
Super Mario Bros. 2, known as Super Mario USA in Japan, dared to be different from its iconic predecessor. With its unique platforming mechanics, vertical level designs, and playable characters, it left a lasting impact on the series. While it may have initially been an outlier, Super Mario Bros. 2 demonstrated the creative and innovative spirit that defines the Mario franchise.
10. Super Mario 3D Land
As a stepping stone from 2D to 3D Mario games, Super Mario 3D Land expertly showcased the capabilities of the 3DS system. Despite its smaller courses, the game delivered a balanced platforming experience with clever use of the console’s stereoscopic 3D. Its tailored approach to the hardware made it a standout title and a great addition to any player’s collection.
Conclusion
These ten Mario games may have been deemed ‘underrated’ by some, but they each offer unique experiences that deserve recognition. From revived 2D platformers to innovative and overlooked entries, each game showcased the immense versatility and lasting appeal of the Mario franchise. By giving these games a second look, players can appreciate the unsung heroes of the Mario canon and rediscover the magic these titles bring. Have we missed any other underrated Mario games that you consider special? Let us know in the comments!
