Mario Games That Surprised Us All

Summary

Super Mario Galaxy 2 replicated and improved the unique gameplay of the original, surprising fans.
New Super Luigi U was more than a mere copycat, with 80 unique levels and distinct gameplay.
Super Mario Strikers Charged was loved for its unapologetically raw and aggressive gameplay, despite being overshadowed.

There’s always a significant buzz in the video game world whenever a fresh Mario game hits the market, but the excitement surrounding these games can fluctuate quite a bit. Games like Super Mario Odyssey and New Super Mario Bros have had sky-high expectations set for them, but not all titles in the series have garnered this level of anticipation before release. That’s why it’s so delightful when they end up being worth every penny you spend on them.

Numerous Mario games have demonstrated their value against all obstacles, convincing fans that even if a game appears unoriginal or simple from previews, Nintendo consistently delivers an enjoyable and top-notch gaming experience. The excitement surrounding these games might have been low prior to their release, but they still managed to leave a lasting impression on the series, to everyone’s amazement, and are still fondly remembered today.

7. Super Mario Galaxy 2

Somehow, Nintendo Managed To Replicate And Even Improve The Unique Gameplay Of The Original Mario Galaxy

Initially, Super Mario Galaxy surpassed all anticipation with its extraordinary 3D platforming, enchanting visuals, and magnificent soundtrack. It was challenging to fathom how Nintendo could better what is often viewed as a flawless installment in the series. However, by refining movement mechanics and integrating Yoshi into the game, Super Mario Galaxy 2 offered a noticeably faster and smoother experience compared to its predecessor. Meanwhile, the planets remained just as imaginative and groundbreaking.

For the sequel, there’s been a significant increase in the number of playable stages, offering more freedom for creative gameplay. This is further enhanced by the addition of numerous power-ups like the Rock Mushroom that lets Mario move rapidly across levels. Many were amazed to find that Mario Galaxy 2, despite being a sequel, could rival or even surpass the original game in quality.

6. New Super Luigi U

Luigi’s Solo Platforming Adventure Turned Out To Be More Than A Mere Copycat Of What Came Previously

In the case of New Super Mario Bros. U, while it was highly regarded as a fantastic platformer game, there wasn’t quite the same level of anticipation for the standalone DLC expansion that focused on Luigi. Given that it was released during the “Year of Luigi,” it seemed like Nintendo might have been taking advantage of the occasion by offering an additional paid content package that could have easily been part of the original game itself.

Fortunately, contrary to some skepticism, “Super Mario Luigi U” turned out to be far more than just a money-grabbing venture. It boasted an impressive 80 distinct levels and offered a unique control experience for Luigi that differed significantly from Mario’s. Despite initial criticism about its price tag as a standalone game, Nintendo successfully demonstrated the game’s high quality, silencing many of its doubters.

5. Mario Strikers Charged

Mario Strikers Charged Was Sandwiched In Between A Ton Of Other Big Nintendo Releases

2007 saw an abundance of eagerly awaited Nintendo launches, including games such as Super Mario Galaxy, Metroid Prime 3, and The Legend of Zelda: The Phantom Hourglass. These blockbuster titles were so captivating that less popular, more specialized Nintendo releases, like Mario Strikers Charged, often slipped under the radar for many gamers.

As a gaming enthusiast, I found myself pleasantly surprised by the underrated gem that is Mario Strikers Charged. This sports game was anything but subtle, offering raw, aggressive gameplay that set it apart from others in its genre. In each 5v5 soccer match, players can ram opponents into electric fences or hurl shells across the field to take everyone out, creating a chaotic and exhilarating experience. The game’s replayability is unmatched due to the diverse character selection, each with their own special abilities and on-pitch stats that add depth to the gameplay.

4. Mario Kart 8

Mario Kart 8 Managed To Carry Forward The Momentum Of The Wii And DS Titles

During a remarkable stretch spanning from the DS to the 3DS, the beloved Mario Kart series achieved an impressive three-game succession. Notably, the widely adored Wii version occupied the middle position in this run. Given that another installment was scheduled for the Wii U, a console whose controller novelty hadn’t yet won over players, anticipation for Mario Kart 8 was relatively low. Fans began to ponder whether Nintendo could meet such high expectations.

Nevertheless, they unleashed Mario Kart 8 powerfully, featuring an aesthetically pleasing design and the innovative anti-gravity driving feature that made several stages feel captivatingly alien and immersive. Moreover, the game offered extensive kart customization options and featured new guest characters. Consequently, this combination led to a game that surpassed expectations, making it arguably the finest installment in the series.

3. Super Mario Maker 2

Nintendo Managed To Improve Upon The Already Incredible Mario Maker Through Adding Unique Features

In simpler terms, the initial version of “Super Mario Maker” for the Nintendo 3DS allowed fans to design their unique levels filled with enemies and items from previous games in the series. So, it was somewhat confusing when Nintendo announced a sequel, as some felt that it might find it challenging to further develop the core gameplay of the original, which was already very strong.

Nintendo successfully pulled this off by introducing the “Super Mario 3D World” theme, unveiling an abundance of fresh items and power-ups that players could utilize. To everyone’s surprise, the online play turned out to be more seamless than anticipated, ultimately leading to a sequel that left fans yearning for it before its arrival.

2. Super Mario Party Jamboree

Jamboree Blew Away Expectations During A Lull Period For The Spin-Off Series

Despite the spin-off games in the Mario Party series consistently being well-received, it encountered a challenging phase starting from the release of 9, 10, and Super Mario Party. These titles offered fewer options for boards to play on (only four) and had a limited selection of minigames, leading many enthusiasts to express dissatisfaction with Super Mario Party. This disappointment sparked concerns among fans that Nintendo might have exhausted their creative resources for the series’ future developments.

Consequently, excitement for the “Super Mario Jamboree” was restrained initially, yet upon its release, it surpassed all anticipations. Not only does it offer seven diverse boards to select, each with distinct settings and obstacles, but it also introduces a multitude of new elements. One of the most significant additions is the inclusion of Jamboree companions who can significantly alter the gameplay dynamics.

1. Super Mario 3D World

What Felt Like Just Another 3D Mario Release Ended Up Being A Wonderfully Creative And Engaging Experience

By 2013, when Super Mario 3D World came out, many fans started questioning how innovative Nintendo could be with the 3D platforming genre, given its exploration in numerous previous games with varying levels of creativity. Since it launched during the Wii U’s lifetime, it wasn’t extensively discussed, making its release a surprise and offering a genuinely novel and invigorating experience.

Including catsuits in the game enables each of the four characters to explore the vibrant settings of various levels, filled with engaging puzzles and unique features that keep the main gameplay experience fresh and exciting. The separate extension, titled “Bowser’s Fury“, is definitely worth playing due to its transformation of the game into an open-world genre, resulting in a truly ambitious and impactful expansion.

2025-02-25 20:36