The 7 Best Games To Play After Watching The Super Mario Galaxy Movie

Your Next Adventure Awaits: Top Mario Games to Play After the Movie

The latest Mario movie will leave you hungry for adventures in the Mushroom Kingdom. If you've just left the cinema feeling an irresistible pull towards pipes, power-ups, and princess-saving, you're in luck! The world of Mario games offers an unparalleled journey into fantastical realms, challenging puzzles, and heartwarming friendships. This guide will walk you through some of the most captivating and 'appropriate' Mario adventures available, perfect for reigniting your love for platforming, exploration, and the sheer fun that only Nintendo's iconic plumber can deliver.

For decades, Super Mario has been the undisputed king of platforming games, enchanting players of all ages with his vibrant worlds, memorable characters, and ingenious gameplay mechanics. From his humble beginnings in the arcade classic Donkey Kong to his modern-day, globe-trotting escapades, Mario has consistently pushed the boundaries of what video games can be. The recent film adaptation has introduced a new generation to the wonders of the Mushroom Kingdom and reminded long-time fans why they fell in love with this colorful universe in the first place.

Whether you're a seasoned gamer looking to revisit cherished memories or a newcomer eager to dive into Mario's world for the first time, there's a perfect adventure waiting for you. This comprehensive guide focuses on games that truly capture the spirit of discovery, the thrill of overcoming obstacles, and the sheer joy of exploring diverse and imaginative landscapes, much like the ones seen in the big-screen adaptation.

Why Mario Games Continue to Charm Us

What is it about Super Mario that makes his games so universally appealing? It's a combination of factors. Firstly, the gameplay is often incredibly intuitive, making it easy for anyone to pick up and play. Yet, beneath that simple exterior lies a surprising depth, offering layers of challenge and secrets for those who wish to delve deeper. Secondly, the worlds Mario inhabits are brimming with creativity. Each level, each kingdom, feels distinct and alive, filled with unique enemies, helpful allies, and inventive power-ups that transform Mario's abilities in exciting ways.

Beyond the mechanics, there's a timeless charm to the characters. Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Toad, Yoshi, and even villains like Bowser and his Koopalings, are instantly recognizable and have distinct personalities that contribute to the rich tapestry of the Mushroom Kingdom. The games often tell simple yet engaging stories of good versus evil, friendship, and perseverance, making them accessible and enjoyable for a global audience. Plus, the upbeat music and vibrant art style create an atmosphere of pure fun that few other game series can match.

Choosing Your Perfect Mushroom Kingdom Expedition

The Mario series boasts a vast catalog of games, spanning various genres from traditional 2D platformers to sprawling 3D adventures, role-playing games, racing titles, and party games. For those seeking an experience akin to the grand journey depicted in the movie, we'll primarily focus on platforming and adventure titles where exploration and skillful navigation are key. These games truly allow you to immerse yourself in the imaginative environments and feel like you're part of a grand quest.

When selecting your next Mario adventure, consider what kind of experience you're after. Do you prefer the precision and nostalgia of classic 2D side-scrolling? Or are you eager to leap into vast 3D worlds, discovering hidden corners and creative ways to interact with your environment? Perhaps you enjoy a touch of role-playing, where story and character development take center stage. Whatever your preference, the Mushroom Kingdom has an exciting escapade tailored just for you. Let's dive into some of the best options available.

1. Super Mario Odyssey (Nintendo Switch) - A Global Exploration

If the movie left you dreaming of vast, diverse lands and endless discovery, then Super Mario Odyssey is undoubtedly your top choice. Released for the Nintendo Switch, this game is a masterful blend of traditional Mario platforming with an innovative open-world design. Mario embarks on a journey around the world, not just the Mushroom Kingdom, aboard the airship Odyssey, collecting "Power Moons" to fuel his ship and rescue Princess Peach from Bowser's clutches once again. What makes Odyssey truly stand out is Mario's new companion, Cappy, a sentient hat from the Cap Kingdom.

Cappy grants Mario the incredible ability to "capture" enemies, objects, and even certain characters, allowing him to take control of them and utilize their unique abilities. This mechanic revolutionizes gameplay, introducing countless creative puzzles and platforming challenges. Imagine possessing a Goomba to stack a tower of them, or becoming a T-Rex to smash through obstacles, or even a Banzai Bill to fly across huge gaps. Each of the game's diverse kingdoms – from the bustling New Donk City to the prehistoric Cascade Kingdom, the gourmet Luncheon Kingdom, and the frosty Snow Kingdom – feels like a distinct holiday destination, packed with secrets, minigames, and charming inhabitants.

Odyssey is a celebration of exploration. Every corner of its beautifully designed worlds hides a secret, a challenge, or a Power Moon. The game encourages players to experiment, look everywhere, and think outside the box. Its vibrant visuals, catchy soundtrack, and boundless creativity make it an absolute joy to play for hours on end. It's an adventure that truly captures the magic and wonder of Mario's universe, making it an essential experience for anyone seeking to extend their cinematic journey into interactive gameplay.

2. Super Mario Galaxy (Nintendo Switch via 3D All-Stars) - A Cosmic Wonderland

For an adventure that literally takes you out of this world, Super Mario Galaxy (originally on Wii, now available as part of the Super Mario 3D All-Stars collection for Switch) is an unparalleled choice. This game launches Mario into outer space to save Princess Peach from Bowser, who has kidnapped her and stolen the Grand Stars that power the universe. Mario teams up with Rosalina and her Lumas, traversing a myriad of small, gravitational planetoids and unique galaxies.

Galaxy's most defining feature is its revolutionary use of gravity. Players navigate intricate 3D environments where gravity pulls Mario in different directions, allowing for mind-bending platforming and creative level design. You'll run upside down, leap between tiny planets, and solve puzzles that play with spatial awareness in ways few other games have managed. Each galaxy is a distinct mini-adventure, offering fresh challenges and breathtaking aesthetics, from colorful floral worlds to fiery volcanoes and watery expanses. The sense of wonder and discovery is palpable as you explore these cosmic playgrounds.

The game also boasts one of the most enchanting soundtracks in video game history, performed by a live orchestra, which perfectly complements the epic scale of Mario's space odyssey. With intuitive controls (even adapted brilliantly for the Switch) and endless charm, Super Mario Galaxy is a testament to Nintendo's creativity. It's a truly magical adventure that will transport you to a universe far beyond the Mushroom Kingdom, filled with stardust, danger, and unadulterated fun.

3. Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury (Nintendo Switch) - Blending Dimensions, Adding Fury

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury offers two distinct yet equally engaging adventures in one package for the Nintendo Switch. Super Mario 3D World is a brilliant blend of traditional 2D Mario platforming with the freedom of 3D movement. Players can choose from Mario, Luigi, Peach, Toad, and even Rosalina, each with unique abilities, as they journey through the Sprixie Kingdom to rescue the Sprixie Princesses from Bowser.

The levels in 3D World are ingeniously crafted, often feeling like miniature obstacle courses rather than sprawling open areas. This design encourages replayability and precision, with a focus on collecting Green Stars and stamps. The game shines brightest in its multiplayer mode, supporting up to four players, leading to chaotic yet incredibly fun cooperative and competitive moments. The introduction of the Super Bell power-up, which transforms characters into cats, adds a layer of verticality and new attack options, making exploration even more delightful.

The included expansion, Bowser's Fury, is a fantastic bonus and a unique open-world Mario experience. In this mode, Mario teams up with Bowser Jr. to calm a gigantic, enraged Bowser who has been corrupted by a mysterious black goo. Set in the expansive Lake Lapcat, this adventure presents a more dynamic and free-form style of gameplay, with mini-islands connected by water and an ever-present threat from a rampaging "Fury Bowser" who periodically appears to wreak havoc. This blend of classic Mario charm with innovative open-world elements makes the entire package an irresistible choice for both solo adventurers and groups.

4. New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe (Nintendo Switch) - Classic 2D Joy

For those who loved the side-scrolling segments and the classic feel of the Mario movie, New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is an excellent choice. This game brings the beloved 2D platforming action to the Nintendo Switch with vibrant HD graphics and a wealth of content. Mario and his friends embark on a traditional quest across the Mushroom Kingdom to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser, navigating through eight diverse worlds filled with iconic enemies, power-ups, and challenging levels.

What sets this game apart is its commitment to the classic formula while adding modern refinements. The controls are incredibly tight and responsive, making every jump, stomp, and spin feel satisfying. It features fan-favorite power-ups like the Super Acorn, which turns Mario into a flying Squirrel Mario, and the Propeller Mushroom, allowing for vertical ascent. The game is designed for both solo play and cooperative multiplayer, supporting up to four players simultaneously. This can lead to exhilarating teamwork or hilarious chaos as players vie for power-ups and coin collection.

Additionally, the Deluxe version includes the challenging "New Super Luigi U" expansion, where Luigi takes the spotlight in levels designed with a shorter timer and increased difficulty, catering to veteran players. With its charming visuals, memorable music, and endless platforming fun, New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is a fantastic way to experience the pure, unadulterated joy of classic Mario gameplay on a modern console. It's perfect for a cozy afternoon of gaming with friends or family, providing countless hours of side-scrolling adventure.

5. Luigi's Mansion 3 (Nintendo Switch) - A Spooky, Quirky Adventure

While not a traditional Mario platformer, Luigi's Mansion 3 offers a wonderfully unique and atmospheric adventure within the Mario universe. This game casts Mario's green-clad brother, Luigi, in the starring role. Luigi, along with Mario, Peach, and Toads, is invited to a luxurious hotel for a vacation, only to find it's a trap set by King Boo. Everyone but Luigi is captured, leaving the timid hero to bravely explore the haunted Last Resort hotel to rescue his friends.

Luigi's main tools are his trusty Poltergust G-00 vacuum cleaner and his gooey doppelganger, Gooigi. The Poltergust is used for everything from stunning ghosts with a flashlight to sucking them up, solving environmental puzzles, and collecting money. Gooigi, a green, slimy clone of Luigi, can pass through grates, walk on spikes, and act as a second player in cooperative mode, making for ingenious puzzle-solving opportunities. Each floor of the hotel is themed differently, offering distinct environments and creative boss battles.

Luigi's Mansion 3 masterfully balances spooky atmosphere with delightful humor. Luigi's exaggerated fear, the quirky ghosts, and the inventive level design make every step through the hotel a joy. The game encourages thorough exploration, as hidden gems, coins, and boos are tucked away in every nook and cranny. It's a refreshing change of pace from traditional Mario games, offering a deeper sense of mystery, puzzle-solving, and a charmingly spooky adventure that's perfect for those seeking something a little different yet still firmly rooted in the spirit of Nintendo's iconic world.

6. Paper Mario: The Origami King (Nintendo Switch) - A Storybook Journey

For an adventure rich in story, humor, and unique charm, Paper Mario: The Origami King offers a delightful change of pace. This game brings the whimsical Paper Mario aesthetic to the Nintendo Switch, delivering a narrative-driven adventure that is both heartwarming and genuinely funny. Princess Peach and her castle are taken over by King Olly, who transforms Peach and many Toads into origami figures. Mario, now also made of paper, teams up with Olly's sister, Olivia, to stop the king and restore the world.

The game unfolds like an interactive storybook, with a charming art style that makes characters and environments look like they're crafted from paper. Exploration is key as Mario journeys across vast and diverse lands, from ancient ruins to bustling ninja towns and serene oceans. The world is filled with hilarious dialogue, quirky characters, and imaginative puzzles that require you to utilize Mario's "1,000-Fold Arms" ability to interact with the environment in creative ways, tearing paper and revealing secrets.

Combat in The Origami King features a unique, ring-based puzzle system where players must strategically align enemies on a circular grid before attacking. This adds a layer of intellectual challenge to each battle. While it's an RPG, the focus is less on grinding and more on clever strategy and enjoying the unfolding narrative. Paper Mario: The Origami King is a truly original adventure that provides a fresh perspective on the Mushroom Kingdom, perfect for those who appreciate compelling storytelling, witty humor, and a world brimming with artistic flair.

7. Super Mario Run (Mobile - iOS/Android) - Mario On-the-Go

If you're looking for a quick dose of Mario adventure that you can enjoy anytime, anywhere, then Super Mario Run is a fantastic option for your mobile device (iOS and Android). This game brings the classic 2D side-scrolling action to your smartphone or tablet, designed for one-handed play. Mario automatically runs forward, and players simply tap the screen to make him jump, timing their taps to perform different maneuvers like wall jumps, rolls, and mid-air spins.

Despite its simplified controls, Super Mario Run offers surprisingly deep gameplay. It features beautifully designed levels across various worlds, each packed with challenges and secrets. The primary goal is to reach the flagpole, but the real replay value comes from collecting three sets of increasingly difficult colored coins in each level. This encourages precise platforming and careful exploration of every route. The game includes several modes, including a "World Tour" for traditional level completion, "Toad Rally" for competitive play against other players' ghost data, and "Kingdom Builder" to create your own Mushroom Kingdom.

Super Mario Run is perfect for short bursts of play during a commute or whenever you have a few minutes to spare. It captures the essence of classic Mario platforming in an accessible mobile format, allowing you to carry the adventure of the Mushroom Kingdom in your pocket. While it's a different experience than its console counterparts, it's a well-crafted entry that offers authentic Mario fun for casual players and completionists alike, without requiring a dedicated gaming console.

The Enduring Legacy of Mario's Adventures

The magic of Mario's world lies not just in its individual games but in the enduring spirit of adventure that permeates the entire series. Each title builds upon a foundation of joyful exploration, clever design, and memorable characters, ensuring that every journey into the Mushroom Kingdom feels fresh and exciting. From the boundless freedom of Super Mario Odyssey to the cosmic wonder of Super Mario Galaxy, the cooperative chaos of Super Mario 3D World, or the timeless precision of New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe, there's an adventure tailored for every taste.

The *Mario* movie may have ended, but your personal adventure in the Mushroom Kingdom is just beginning. These games are more than just entertainment; they are gateways to worlds of imagination, challenges that foster creativity and perseverance, and experiences that create lasting memories. So pick up your controller, or tap your screen, and get ready to jump, stomp, and explore. The Princess is waiting, and Bowser is up to no good, but with Mario by your side (or as your avatar), any challenge can be overcome. Happy adventuring!

from Kotaku
-via DynaSage