The Best Mario Sequel Games

Key Takeaways

New Super Mario Bros. 2
features fun coin-collecting mechanics that boost replay value.
Super Mario Bros. 2
introduced exciting character options for varied and fun gameplay.
New Super Mario Bros. U
offers smooth gameplay and stunningly crafted levels for the ultimate
Mario
experience.

As someone who’s been around the block a few times with Mario games, I can confidently say that these three titles are absolute gems in the Super Mario series.

Amongst the finest Switch exclusives and enticing cross-platform games, it’s often Super Mario that outsparkles as the unparalleled luminary in Nintendo’s collection. Accompanied by his sibling Luigi, Mario embodies a timeless gaming legend, revered for an impressive variety of games across decades.

Without a doubt, Mario has embarked on numerous enjoyable journeys spanning three decades, and among these, certain games truly shine as the cream of the crop. These ten exceptional sequels in the Super Mario series are a must-play for anyone yearning for a nostalgic trip or simply seeking top-notch entertainment.

10 New Super Mario Bros. 2

Fun Coin-Collecting Mechanics That Boost Replay Value

A Sequel To New Super Mario Bros.

The continuation of the original New Super Mario Bros., released for Nintendo DS in 2006, is New Super Mario Bros. 2. True to its roots, this game features Mario and Luigi on a quest to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser and his minions, the Koopalings. An exciting new feature called “Coin Rush” lets players speed through various stages while collecting coins as if they’re going out of style. New Super Mario Bros. 2 offers impressive level design, gameplay mechanics, and graphics.

While the game remains fun to play, the fact that it doesn’t offer much innovation, seems overly simplistic and bears a strong resemblance to previous titles in the New Super Mario Bros. series, is somewhat disappointing. Despite being enjoyable, this third installment does not introduce anything particularly new or exciting, which might explain its lower ranking compared to others.

9 Super Mario Bros. 2

Exciting Character Options For More Varied Gameplay

A Sequel To Super Mario Bros.

Originally, Super Mario Bros. 2 was initially a distinct game in Japan, titled Doki Doki Panic. Despite the sequel’s challenging gameplay receiving some criticism, it continues to maintain a unique appeal that has endured for decades since its debut.

Super Mario Bros. 2 creatively adapts the gameplay of Doki Doki Panic, showcasing its unique charm as an unconventional yet engaging platformer, populated by beloved Nintendo characters. In this version, players have the option to control either Mario, Luigi, Princess Toadstool, or Toad.

As a dedicated gamer, I’ve noticed some enthusiasts view “Super Mario Bros. 2” as merely an extension of the original, skipping over it as a standalone sequel. Yet, there’s no denying that it’s a blast to play within the Mario universe, standing tall alongside the franchise’s top-tier titles.

8 New Super Mario Bros. U

Smooth Gameplay And Stunningly Crafted Levels

A Sequel To New Super Mario Bros. Wii

New Super Mario Bros. U offers an outstanding 2D journey that perfectly captures what makes Mario’s level design so remarkable, while also adding delightful surprises throughout the game. You’ll find new power-ups, an engaging world map, and imaginative enemies in abundance. Replay it for more fun, especially the challenge modes, and you’re in for a top-notch Super Mario experience.

New Super Mario Bros. U invigorated the Super Mario Bros. franchise by introducing a refreshing twist to platform gaming. The game showcased vibrant, varied stages that are both straightforward and imaginative, making them suitable for players of all abilities. If some may have missed its charm due to perceived over-excitement about the new series, it’s worth revisiting this game.

7 Super Mario Bros.

Set The Gold Standard For Platformers Through Clever Design And Precise Movement

A Sequel To Mario Bros.

The classic game, Super Mario Bros., has seen numerous re-releases throughout its 30-year history, primarily because it’s an iconic title. Debuting in 1985, the initial Super Mario game established the standard for platformers by perfecting Mario’s signature action: jumping. Super Mario Bros. was groundbreaking, popularizing side-scrolling platformers in gaming. Both critics and players were impressed by its responsive controls and challenging play style.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but reminisce about the timeless charm of the original Super Mario Bros., despite its 8-bit, pixelated appearance. It continues to stand tall among the greatest NES games, a testament to its enduring appeal. The responsive controls, flawless platforming, and hidden treasures throughout the levels make each journey an exciting adventure worth revisiting.

6 Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope

Brings Together Pleasantly Strategic Gameplay With A Hefty Dose Of Humor

A Sequel To Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle

The game titled “Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope” showcases that even after nearly four decades, Mario games continue to introduce novelty. This is a turn-based space odyssey where Mario, his team, and their Rabbid friends embark on a quest to capture Cursa, gather Sparks, and safeguard planets en route. It’s like “Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle,” but with an added boost.

This game offers everything you need: thrilling battles, captivating levels, an amazing soundtrack, and numerous character choices that allow players to customize their combat style. In essence, Sparks of Hope seamlessly brings a unique 3D perspective, distinguishing itself from the usual 2D platformers found here.

5 New Super Mario Bros. Wii

Introduced Cooperative Multiplayer, Making It A Blast For Friends To Play Together

A Sequel To New Super Mario Bros.

The game “New Super Mario Bros. Wii” was initially released for the Wii console in 2009, and it proved to be well worth the wait, spanning over a decade. This title delivered a powerful punch, surpassing its handheld counterpart with an impressive jump-spin move and a four-player cooperative mode that turned the game’s regular levels into an engaging co-op gaming experience.

Many people view “New Super Mario Bros. Wii” as the spiritual heir to the 1991 classic “Super Mario World,” as it offers an enticing blend of difficulty and enjoyment, making it suitable for both dedicated fans and casual players. Although “New Super Mario Bros. Wii” might appear outdated, it remains a smart and engaging “Mario” sequel for the Wii.

4 Super Mario Maker 2

Sparked Creativity By Allowing Players To Design And Share Their Own Levels

A Sequel To Super Mario Maker

In the sequel to Super Mario Maker, Nintendo elevates the concept with an abundance of innovative features and virtually unlimited creative potential, offering experiences never seen before. The game serves up a witty campaign that isn’t just an engaging 2D Mario solo journey, but also a comprehensive tutorial on its intuitive level-construction tools.

Instead of the usual adventure in the Mario world, this smart sequel packs over three decades of platforming excellence for players to enjoy directly. The user-friendly toolkit allows players to effortlessly create amazing experiences. Moreover, the new story mode is captivating and intricate enough to keep players engaged and reward their investment.

Despite having to navigate a blend of tough obstacles and overly simple assignments that may initially seem frustrating, the boundless imagination and pure enjoyment it offers more than makes up for the exertion required.

3 Super Mario 3D World

One Of The Most Visually Vibrant And Satisfying Games In The Super Mario Series

A Sequel To Super Mario 3D Land

Super Mario 3D World shines not only on the Wii U, but also ranks among Mario’s most thrilling journeys. It builds upon key aspects from 3D Land, enhancing them to make gameplay more engaging, by enlarging stages, incorporating captivating puzzles, and maintaining vibrant and exhilarating graphics. What truly sets it apart is the multiplayer experience when playing with friends, offering one of the best multiplayer options the series has ever provided.

In this follow-up, we find a bounty of traditional Mario power-ups, and it introduces some that are likely to become essential elements in every future Mario journey. For example, Cat Mario, a delightful addition, echoes the memorable animal costumes from Super Mario Bros. 3, while the level-ending flagpoles pay tribute to the game that initiated the series.

2 Super Mario Bros. 3

Introduced Game-Changing Power-Ups That Transformed Platformers Forever

A Sequel To Super Mario Bros. 2

As a die-hard fan, I can’t help but marvel at Super Mario Bros. 3. It’s not merely a pioneer in gaming history; it’s a game that deserves its place among the top Mario titles due to its unique ability to seamlessly combine groundbreaking ideas with the pure joy of playing a Super Mario game. In essence, every subsequent Mario game has undeniably drawn inspiration from this delightfully straightforward and entertaining blueprint.

Other attempts fell short, yet none truly captured the enchanting gameplay essence of Super Mario Bros. 3, offering a novel layout for levels, a hint of speed boosts from P-Mushrooms, and an assortment of innovative power-ups. The game is a charming blend of ingenuity and difficulty, consistently dishing out challenging scenarios that keep gamers alert throughout their playtime.

1 Super Mario Galaxy 2

Beautiful Level Designs And Intricate Gameplay That Keep Players Guessing

A Sequel To Super Mario Galaxy

In a stunning turn of events, Super Mario Galaxy 2 surpasses its remarkable forerunner in every imaginable aspect, making it the standout game among numerous other exceptional contenders. This game, like no other, seized the spotlight and proclaimed the Wii as an essential console for dedicated gamers. It demonstrated that a sprinkle of creativity can effortlessly overshadow any technical constraints.

This game offers an exceptional 3D Super Mario adventure, filled with numerous immersive worlds to explore, intricate puzzles that stimulate your brain, and a delightful version of Mario that’s a breeze to manage in any gaming environment. It showcases more planets than the initial release, providing a rich tapestry of diversity and innovation.

Undeniably, Super Mario Galaxy 2 offers an enjoyable platform journey, maintaining its charm even as difficulty reaches its peak.

2024-10-05 16:34