7 Best Handheld Mario Games, Ranked

As someone who grew up with a Game Boy in one hand and Super Mario in the other, I must say that these games take me back to simpler times. The nostalgia is strong, but let’s not get lost in the past; these games are timeless classics for a reason!

For over three decades, starting from the NES in 1986 and continuing up until the Switch in 2017, the iconic Mario series has carved out a distinguished reputation on home gaming consoles. Throughout this time, it’s not just the console games that have captivated players; its handheld counterparts have also delivered captivating experiences, often proving to be even more immersive than their console-based counterparts.

Regardless if it’s the sports games created with Camelot or the platform titles, Nintendo has consistently produced top-tier handheld Mario games that have stood out among their overall output. From the initial days on Game Boy Color to his journeys on Game Boy Advance and 3DS, Mario fits perfectly in the handheld gaming world.

7 Mario Golf

Portable Version Of Camelot’s Sports Title Shines On Game Boy

Platform: Game Boy Color
Release Date: October 5, 1999
Developer: Camelot Software Planning

As a die-hard fan, I’d say that among the top-tier games on the N64, none quite compare to the Camelot-developed version of Mario Golf. The same praise can be given to its spin-off for the Game Boy Color, a one-of-a-kind golf game that truly shines in the realm of classic handhelds. In the Game Boy Color edition of Mario Golf, the gameplay is reminiscent of an RPG, offering exploration, character leveling, and an engaging storyline that sets it apart.

As a long-time gamer and avid golfer, I can attest to the fact that Camelot Software Planning truly outdid themselves with the Game Boy Color version of Mario Golf. Having spent countless hours on various golfing games over the years, I must say that this game offers some of the best golfing experiences I’ve ever had, purely from a gameplay perspective.

6 New Super Mario Bros.

Debut Of New Super Mario Bros. On The Nintendo DS

Currently, the New Super Mario Bros. series isn’t given much attention by Nintendo except for a few re-releases, but in 2007, it was the most faithful representation of classic side-scrolling action within the Mario franchise that one could find. The release of New Super Mario Bros. on the DS took us back to the series’ origins and created an incredibly enjoyable side-scrolling platformer experience.

The game New Super Mario Bros. boasts impressive level layouts and some amazing novel power-ups such as the Mini-Mushroom and the Blue Shells, both first introduced in this DS edition. The music is another standout feature, with cheerful melodies and the playfulness that’s synonymous with the franchise. New Super Mario Bros. on DS managed to maintain the series’ traditional feel even during the era of the DS and Wii, preserving the 2D essence while games like Galaxy were stealing the limelight in the 3D platformer genre.

5 Mario Vs. Donkey Kong

Spectacular Puzzle Game Is One Of The GBA’s Best Titles

2002 at E3, Nintendo unveiled a game named “Donkey Kong Plus,” which allowed players like me to design stages on the GameCube and later transport them to the Game Boy Advance for gaming fun. This one-of-a-kind title faded into obscurity until 2004 when it resurfaced as “Mario Vs. Donkey Kong“, a thrilling puzzle-platform adventure that had me, a Brooklyn-born plumber, navigating intricate levels to find a key and guide it to an opening to advance.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but rave about the ingenious puzzle mechanics in Mario Vs. Donkey Kong. Not only is it visually one of the cutest games on the Game Boy Advance, but its enchanting sprite work and unparalleled charm make it a standout on the system. The game has recently undergone a complete revamp on the Nintendo Switch, testament to its enduring appeal. Over the years, it’s been released on various platforms like the GBA, 3DS, and Wii U, but the original version still holds the crown as its finest iteration.

4 Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins

Outstanding Game Boy Color Platformer Sees The Debut Of Wario

In the late 80s and early 90s, Nintendo found numerous opportunities to create games for the Game Boy, as this handheld system, designed by Gunpei Yokoi, was an undisputed market leader. The success of the first Super Mario Land game made a sequel an obvious choice. Eventually, they produced Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins, which remains one of the greatest original Game Boy platformers to this day.

In his first appearance, Wario made his debut, eventually starring in numerous side series games. The storyline revolves around Mario trying to recover an island that was swiped by his latest arch-nemesis. With impressive stage design, remarkable music, and stunning pixel art, Super Mario Land 2 is a top-notch portable platformer that remains enjoyable even today. You can play it now on the Nintendo Switch via Nintendo Switch Online.

3 Mario Kart 7

Handheld Racing Game Is One Of Mario Kart’s Best

As a dedicated gamer, I can’t help but reflect on the phenomenal impact that Mario Kart has had, particularly on the GameCube and Wii platforms. However, it’s hard to ignore the massive presence of Nintendo 3DS systems out there. Seeing this, Nintendo decided to release the next major installment in the legendary racing series right on the handheld platform. With Mario Kart 7 on the 3DS, they managed not just to produce one of the best games in the series but also one of the greatest handheld racing games ever conceived.

In Mario Kart 7, players can glide when they jump, and even drive underwater – features that have been a staple in subsequent games as well. The new tracks are superb, offering an unparalleled sense of speed on the 3DS system, thanks to the optimal weight of the vehicles. Mario Kart 7 remains one of the franchise’s top games and is definitely worth revisiting if you still have a 3DS today.

2 Super Mario 3D Land

3DS Title Is One Of The Franchise’s Best Platformers

Originating from the same group behind both Galaxy 1 and 2, Super Mario 3D Land stands out as one of the finest games available on the 3DS, boasting a well-earned place in the series. This acclaim is well deserved, as Super Mario 3D Land showcases exceptional game design and quality that makes owning a 3DS a worthwhile investment, given its status as one of the console’s most successful and popular titles.

In “Super Mario 3D Land,” Nintendo drew inspiration from Chinese comic styles to introduce a novel mechanic, polished it up, and then subtly changed the way players perceived it before moving onto something else new. The game’s stages and worlds in “3D Land” always feel unique because players never get the sense they’re repeating the same tasks. This game is a testament to exceptional game design and level layout, and it would be great if it received a remaster on the Switch or its rumored successor.

1 Mario And Luigi: Superstar Saga

Debut Of Mario RPG Series Is A Game Boy Advance Classic

Although Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars was a hit on SNES in 1996 due to its partnership with Square, this collaboration did not last long and a sequel failed to materialize. To keep the idea of a Mario role-playing game alive, Nintendo collaborated with Alpha Dream, a team consisting of former Square employees, to create Superstar Saga for the Game Boy Advance in 2003.

The investment proved worthwhile, since the delightful RPG featuring Mario and his less fortunate brother Luigi, originally released on the Game Boy Advance, ranks among the best games out there. Its unique writing style and humorous quirks established a distinctive identity, complemented by engaging combat, exceptional sprite art, and an addictive gameplay experience. Remade for the 3DS in 2017, this timeless GBA gem can now be enjoyed through Nintendo Switch Online, allowing players to experience this classic in various ways today.

2024-08-20 09:34