Hey guys! Let's dive into the amazing world of Nintendo Switch and, more specifically, the essential Mario games you absolutely need to have in your collection. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the Mushroom Kingdom, these titles offer hours of fun, adventure, and unforgettable memories. We're going to break down why these games are so special and why they deserve a spot in your gaming library. So, grab your Switch, get comfy, and let's-a go!

Super Mario Odyssey

Super Mario Odyssey is an absolute masterpiece and a must-have for any Nintendo Switch owner. This game takes the classic Mario formula and elevates it to new heights with its innovative gameplay mechanics and stunning world design. In Super Mario Odyssey, Mario embarks on a globe-trotting adventure to rescue Princess Peach from the clutches of Bowser, who plans to forcibly marry her. What sets this game apart is the introduction of Cappy, a sentient hat that allows Mario to "capture" various objects and creatures, granting him their unique abilities. This mechanic opens up a world of possibilities, allowing players to control everything from Goombas and Chain Chomps to even a T-Rex! The sheer variety of gameplay experiences is astounding, ensuring that you're always encountering something new and exciting. The worlds in Super Mario Odyssey are incredibly diverse and beautifully crafted, ranging from the bustling metropolis of New Donk City to the sandy dunes of the Sand Kingdom. Each kingdom is packed with secrets, collectibles, and challenges that will keep you exploring for hours on end. The game's open-ended design encourages experimentation and rewards curiosity, making it a joy to discover every nook and cranny. Beyond the captivating gameplay and stunning visuals, Super Mario Odyssey also boasts a heartwarming story and memorable characters. The dynamic between Mario and Cappy is genuinely endearing, and their journey together is filled with humor and touching moments. The game's soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring a mix of catchy tunes and orchestral scores that perfectly complement the on-screen action. Whether you're a seasoned Mario veteran or a newcomer to the series, Super Mario Odyssey offers an unforgettable gaming experience that will leave you with a smile on your face. It's a true testament to the creativity and innovation of Nintendo's development teams and a shining example of what makes the Mario franchise so beloved.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the definitive kart racing experience on the Nintendo Switch, offering a perfect blend of accessibility and depth that appeals to both casual and hardcore gamers. This game takes everything that made Mario Kart 8 on the Wii U great and enhances it with new characters, tracks, and features. One of the standout features of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is its massive roster of characters, including all your favorite faces from the Mario universe, as well as some unexpected guests. Each character has their own unique stats, allowing you to customize your kart and playstyle to your liking. The game also boasts an impressive selection of tracks, ranging from classic courses from previous Mario Kart games to brand-new creations that showcase the series' trademark creativity. Whether you're racing through the Mushroom Kingdom or drifting around the Hyrule Circuit, there's always a new challenge to conquer. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is incredibly easy to pick up and play, thanks to its intuitive controls and helpful assists. However, mastering the game's mechanics, such as drifting, boosting, and item usage, requires skill and practice. This balance of accessibility and depth makes it a game that anyone can enjoy, regardless of their gaming experience. The game's multiplayer modes are where it truly shines, allowing you to race against friends and family in local or online matches. Whether you're competing for the top spot or just having fun with chaotic item battles, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe offers endless hours of entertainment. The addition of new features, such as the ability to hold two items at once and the return of battle mode arenas, further enhances the multiplayer experience. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is more than just a kart racing game; it's a social experience that brings people together. Its addictive gameplay, charming presentation, and robust multiplayer features make it a must-have for any Nintendo Switch owner. So, gather your friends, rev your engines, and get ready to race!

Super Mario Maker 2

Super Mario Maker 2 is a game that truly unleashes your creativity, allowing you to design and play your own custom Mario levels. This sequel expands upon the original Super Mario Maker with a wealth of new features, tools, and content, making it the ultimate playground for Mario fans. The game's level creation tools are incredibly intuitive and easy to use, allowing you to build everything from simple, straightforward courses to complex, challenging contraptions. You can choose from a variety of themes, including classic Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros. 3, Super Mario World, and New Super Mario Bros. U, each with its own unique art style and gameplay mechanics. The possibilities are endless, and the only limit is your imagination. One of the biggest additions to Super Mario Maker 2 is the Story Mode, which features over 100 Nintendo-designed courses that showcase the game's creative potential. These levels are not only fun to play but also serve as inspiration for your own creations. The Story Mode also introduces new elements and mechanics that you can incorporate into your levels, further expanding your creative toolkit. Super Mario Maker 2 also boasts a robust online community, where you can share your creations with the world and play levels designed by other players. The game's search and ranking system makes it easy to find levels that suit your taste, whether you're looking for challenging platforming stages or wacky, experimental creations. The online community is constantly churning out new and innovative levels, ensuring that there's always something fresh to discover. Super Mario Maker 2 is more than just a game; it's a platform for creativity and collaboration. Its intuitive level creation tools, engaging Story Mode, and thriving online community make it a must-have for any Mario fan who wants to unleash their inner game designer. So, grab your stylus, fire up your Switch, and get ready to create the Mario level of your dreams!

New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe

New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe brings the classic Wii U platformer to the Nintendo Switch with enhanced features and content. This game offers a traditional side-scrolling Mario experience with a focus on multiplayer fun. Up to four players can team up to tackle the game's challenging levels, working together (or against each other) to reach the goal. The game features a variety of playable characters, including Mario, Luigi, Toad, and Nabbit, each with their own unique abilities. New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe includes both the original New Super Mario Bros. U game and the New Super Luigi U expansion, offering a wealth of content to explore. The levels are cleverly designed and packed with secrets, collectibles, and challenges that will keep you coming back for more. The game's difficulty is well-balanced, offering a challenge for both casual and hardcore players. One of the highlights of New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is its multiplayer mode, which is chaotic and hilarious. Players can help each other reach new heights, sabotage each other's progress, or simply compete to see who can reach the goal first. The game's cooperative and competitive elements make it a perfect choice for parties and family gatherings. New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe also features a variety of game modes, including Challenge Mode, which tasks players with completing specific objectives, and Boost Rush Mode, which increases the game's speed and difficulty. These modes add replayability and offer a fresh perspective on the game's levels. New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is a solid addition to the Nintendo Switch's Mario lineup, offering a classic platforming experience with a focus on multiplayer fun. Its challenging levels, diverse game modes, and chaotic multiplayer make it a must-have for fans of the series. So, gather your friends, grab your controllers, and get ready for some side-scrolling mayhem!

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury is a two-in-one package that offers a delightful mix of linear platforming and open-world exploration. Super Mario 3D World is a multiplayer-focused adventure where you can team up with friends to tackle colorful and creative levels. The game features a variety of playable characters, including Mario, Luigi, Peach, and Toad, each with their own unique abilities. The levels are cleverly designed and packed with secrets, collectibles, and challenges that will keep you coming back for more. One of the highlights of Super Mario 3D World is its power-ups, which include the Super Bell, which transforms players into cats, and the Double Cherry, which creates clones of your character. These power-ups add a layer of creativity and strategy to the gameplay, allowing you to overcome obstacles in unique and inventive ways. Bowser's Fury is a brand-new open-world adventure that is included in the package. This mode sees Mario teaming up with Bowser Jr. to stop a giant, enraged Bowser from destroying Lake Lapcat. The game features a seamless open world to explore, filled with collectibles, challenges, and secrets. Bowser's Fury introduces a new gameplay mechanic called Fury Blocks, which appear when Bowser unleashes his fury. These blocks can be used to reach new areas and uncover hidden secrets. The game's dynamic weather and changing environments add a sense of urgency and excitement to the gameplay. Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury is a must-have for any Nintendo Switch owner, offering a delightful mix of linear platforming and open-world exploration. Its multiplayer fun, creative power-ups, and engaging gameplay make it a standout title in the Mario series. So, grab your friends, fire up your Switch, and get ready for an adventure!

These Mario games are absolute essentials for any Nintendo Switch owner. Each title offers a unique and unforgettable experience, showcasing the creativity and innovation that the Mario franchise is known for. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the world of Mario, these games will provide hours of fun and entertainment. So, don't wait any longer – add them to your collection and start your adventure today!