Every 3D Mario Game, Ranked

The “Mario” series has successfully adapted to three-dimensional gaming, consistently offering top-notch titles without any unnecessary content. With a promising new 3D “Mario” game in sight, let’s take a moment to appreciate the remarkable history of this iconic franchise.

No matter which games you consider as the primary “Super Mario” titles, I will restrict my ranking to only the 3D Super Mario platformers. If there are any exceptions like Mario Artist: Polygon Studio, feel free to let me know where it should be placed in this list.

Instead of incorporating “improved” ports, I’ll opt out since discussing it would essentially involve me criticizing the DS version of Mario 64 and praising the Switch edition of 3D World, due to a handful of minor advantages.

Instead of focusing on a wide variety of games, we’ll concentrate specifically on the uniquely distinct ones. Our goal is to determine the top-tier versions of these special titles, so they have the optimal advantage when matched against some of the greatest games in history.

8. Super Mario 3D Land

Tiny, Repetitive Adventures

To clarify, all games on this list are absolute hits and incredibly enjoyable, and that’s particularly clear in the last position, Super Mario 3D Land, which has earned its place primarily because it lacks (a specific feature).

The game draws significant influence from “Super Mario Bros. 3,” which overall makes for an entertaining experience. However, it can’t shake off a strong sense of being a copycat. Many stages seem to merge into each other in my memory.

This feels quite typical, and it seems to symbolize the entire early 2010s era of Mario. Although it’s not nearly as generic as New Super Mario Bros., I would prefer if it had a more unique character.

Instead of featuring unique gimmicks, concepts, and power-ups like most other games on the list, Super Mario 3D Land adopts a more conservative approach, making it an entertaining platformer, albeit not one I frequently revisit.

7. Super Mario Galaxy 2

Somewhat Slighted Sequel

In a more casual tone, “Super Mario Galaxy 2” offers a lot of enjoyable gameplay, introducing fresh power-ups and some entertaining tricks that set it apart from its predecessor. However, when compared to the original, it seems somewhat less impactful or impressive.

Initially, this game was designed as downloadable content, and it reflects this, as its narrative essentially discards the first game’s storyline instead of expanding upon it, and in doing so, it dilutes the emotional depth that one of the few story-rich Mario games possessed.

Additionally, I find the newly introduced power-ups somewhat disappointing in general. The Cloud Flower is impressive, but the rest seem either excessively underused or frustrating to employ, like the Rock Mario ability.

As a passionate fan, I can’t help but feel that Super Mario Galaxy 2 could have been spectacular if not for the frustrating bird levels. It seems like these levels disrupt the overall flow and enjoyment of an otherwise exceptional game. In my opinion, even minor flaws can significantly impact the final rating.

6. Super Mario Sunshine

Propelled To New Heights

In a casual and understandable manner, we can rephrase the given sentence as follows: “Super Mario Sunshine, the odd one out in Mario’s 3D series, showcases what gaming was like during the Gamecube era. The game featured Mario with rolled-up sleeves and a jetpack, which were innovative changes resulting from continuous experimentation.

If you approach it with an open mind, aren’t quick to criticize unusual aspects, and don’t let anyone influence your opinion negatively, Sunshine could turn out to be a real blast for you.

As you gradually get accustomed to the moveset, you’ll find yourself mastering Mario’s movements, enjoying his spins, dives, and schmoves more, and having a fantastic time navigating the levels.

Despite some issues like an abundance of bugs, a puzzling level layout, and occasionally poor voice acting, this game’s distinctiveness and enjoyment factor made me feel drawn to share my thoughts about it.

5. Super Mario 64

Supremely Slick

You might be surprised to learn that Super Mario 64 is actually quite an old game. Yet, despite its age, it manages to remain a delightfully enjoyable experience, albeit one that’s occasionally hindered by being one of the earliest examples of a 3D platformer and an unusual camera system.

In a smooth and intuitive manner, Mario’s actions seamlessly transition one into another, creating an enjoyable experience as you guide him through various stages in Super Mario Bros.

Although this game isn’t perfect, there are certain aspects that I find less appealing. For instance, I believe the 100 coin and red coin stars are disappointing, especially since they appear in almost every stage throughout the game. The wall jumps can also feel tricky to manage, and while the art style may seem endearing at times, it tends to be marred by stretched textures that look unsightly more frequently than not.

Super Mario 64 is still a great, fun game at the end of the day, but there’s better on this list.

4. Super Mario 3D World

Platforming Perfected

In my opinion, when it comes to “Super Mario 3D World,” I found myself experiencing a familiar pitfall reminiscent of the “New Super Mario Bros.” series – a seemingly ordinary gameplay style, but with an outstanding twist: extraordinary level designs, vibrant themes, and an exceptional soundtrack that feels almost divine.

The design aims to create a 3D experience reminiscent of a classic 2D Super Mario game, featuring progressive levels filled with fresh challenges and innovative features. Each level successfully completed provides an incredibly rewarding sense of accomplishment.

This game might not be exceptionally mind-blowing, but it’s the blend of high-quality construction and consistently engaging design that sets it apart. Despite some quirks with character handling and a poor crown system in multiplayer, these elements are still notable.

Super Mario 3D World offers enjoyable gameplay, although it doesn’t bring much novelty except for the cat suit. It’s similar to savoring delicious fast food over a gourmet meal; at times, it simply satisfies your cravings perfectly.

3. Bowser’s Fury

Short, But Surprising

Because I’m not too concerned with the duration of my games, Bowser’s Fury seems like a fantastic adventure, blending the elements that made 3D World enjoyable with the open-ended exploration found in less linear games.

The design is reminiscent of a vast game world where multiple small, interconnected linear platforming stages serve as individual islands. Each island presents its unique set of challenges, which can be tackled at the player’s leisure, offering an open-ended exploration experience.

I really enjoy exploring this expansive area and doing some platforming tasks, which always feels enjoyable. It’s even more delightful when there are additional activities to engage in within the open space.

I’ll put it this way: There are aspects of it that bother me, such as the unexpected Bowser jumpscares and having to frequently leave and return to the island. However, considering it’s an additional game included in Super Mario 3D World, it’s a really enjoyable experience.

2. Super Mario Odyssey

Whimsy Incarnate

The list of games that have brought tears to my eyes is a bit peculiar: Undertale, Undertale Yellow, Outer Wilds, and Super Mario Odyssey. Among them, Super Mario Odyssey stands out as the unusual one, but that’s only because it’s simply incredible.

In every game, featuring memorable highlights, I’m captivated by gathering moons, donning quirky costumes for Super Mario, and aiding the inhabitants with their unique narratives.

I truly enjoy the freedom of exploration, and the sensation of movement is simply fantastic. This game stands out as one that has motivated me to attempt speedrunning, even though I wasn’t successful at it for a prolonged period. However, the joy was in the attempt and replaying it numerous times.

Despite some minor annoyances, every aspect of the game “Super Mario Odyssey” combined to create something so delightful and charming that I shed tears of happiness during the credits. I can’t quite explain why it had such a profound effect on me, but it has left an indelible impression.

1. Super Mario Galaxy

Landed Among The Stars

Giving “Super Mario Galaxy” first place wouldn’t be fair to both of us, considering it’s an unrivaled masterpiece in the realm of platformers. It encapsulates everything I adore about 3D Mario games, and offers additional delightful elements beyond that.

Each stage offers a harmonious blend of structured progression and discovery, giving them a spacious and liberating feel, while still providing an extremely rewarding sense of accomplishment upon completion. The platforming hurdles present genuine tests of your gaming skills.

The music score boasts an array of exquisitely arranged tracks, capable of shifting between powerful and dynamic to tender and poignant, as it’s the sole game in this collection that carries a truly moving and emotional narrative.

The entirety of the game titled “Super Mario Galaxy” remains as an exceptional masterpiece, a game that, although it has a sequel, hasn’t been effectively replicated in its essence. The persistence of fans clamoring for a “Galaxy 3” demonstrates its profound impact on them.

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2025-02-22 18:40