So you just got a Nintendo Switch and wanna dive into Mario's world? Smart move. But with over 15 titles available, choosing the right Mario games on Switch can feel overwhelming. I remember staring at the eShop my first week, wallet sweating. Should you grab the flagship platformer? A party game? That weird sports title everyone debates?
Having dumped 300+ hours into Mario Switch games since 2017 (yes, I track playtime like a nerd), I'll break down every single option with brutal honesty. Forget generic reviews - we're talking file sizes, local co-op quirks, which games go on sale often, and which Luigi spin-offs surprise you.
Every Mario Game Available on Nintendo Switch Right Now
Nintendo's released more Mario titles on Switch than any console since the Wii. Here's the full roster with critical details:
| Game Title | Release Year | Game Type | Price (USD) | File Size | Multiplayer? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Super Mario Odyssey | 2017 | 3D Platformer | $59.99 | 5.7 GB | 2-player co-op |
| Mario Kart 8 Deluxe | 2017 | Racing | $59.99 | 6.8 GB | 4 players local/online |
| Super Mario Maker 2 | 2019 | Level Creator | $59.99 | 3.2 GB | 4 players online |
| Luigi's Mansion 3 | 2019 | Adventure | $59.99 | 6.5 GB | 8 players local |
| Paper Mario: Origami King | 2020 | RPG-Adventure | $59.99 | 6.4 GB | No |
| Mario Party Superstars | 2021 | Party Board Game | $59.99 | 2.4 GB | 4 players local |
| Mario Golf: Super Rush | 2021 | Sports | $59.99 | 4.1 GB | 4 players local |
| Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle | 2017 | Tactical RPG | $39.99 (on sale often) | 2.5 GB | 2 players local |
Notice how Mario Kart 8 Deluxe still costs full price six years later? Yeah, Nintendo rarely discounts their heavy hitters. But Luigi's Mansion 3 drops to $40 around holidays.
Must-Own Mario Titles for Your Switch Library
Not all Mario Switch games are created equal. Based on replay value, innovation and pure fun:
Essential Mario Games on Switch
- Super Mario Odyssey - The ultimate 3D Mario experience. 800+ moons to collect across wild kingdoms. That New Donk City sequence? Chef's kiss.
- Mario Kart 8 Deluxe - Contains ALL DLC from Wii U version. Still the best party starter after 7 years. Worth full price.
- Luigi's Mansion 3 - Surprisingly deep ghost-busting adventure. Best co-op implementation on Switch.
- Super Mario Maker 2 - Infinite gameplay if you enjoy level creation. Online subscription required though.
I bought Mario Tennis Aces on launch day and kinda regret it. The story mode felt half-baked compared to GameCube classics. Stick to Mario Golf if you want sports.
Which Mario Game Fits Your Play Style?
Solo Players:
- Super Mario Odyssey - Pure exploration bliss
- Paper Mario: Origami King - Charming story with unique combat
- Luigi's Mansion 3 - Perfect Halloween vibe year-round
Multiplayer Focused:
- Mario Kart 8 Deluxe - Works with single Joy-Con
- Mario Party Superstars - Classic boards from N64 era
- Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury - Chaotic 4-player platforming
The Underrated Gem: Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle
Don't skip this just because of the Rabbids. It's legitimately one of the best tactical RPGs on Switch. I ignored it until a friend insisted - now I've sunk 50 hours into the Donkey Kong DLC. Regularly drops to $15 on sale.
Digital vs Physical: What Mario Fans Need to Know
| Factor | Physical Cartridge | Digital Download |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Often cheaper used | Rare discounts except sales |
| Resale Value | Can sell/trade later | Permanently tied to account |
| Convenience | Swap cartridges | Always available |
| Storage Space | Minimal install needed | Full download required |
My rule? Buy physical for expensive first-party games like Mario Switch titles. Went digital for Mario Golf and regret it now that I barely play.
Critical FAQs About Mario on Switch
Do I need Nintendo Switch Online to play Mario games?
Only for online features. Mario Kart 8 and Mario Maker 2 require subscription for multiplayer. Super Mario Odyssey single-player works offline.
Why do Mario games cost more than other Switch titles?
First-party Nintendo games maintain value. Unlike third-party titles that drop fast, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe still sells at $60 because it's evergreen.
What's the easiest Mario game for beginners?
Super Mario 3D World has the simplest controls. New Super Mario Bros U Deluxe offers Nabbit character who can't take damage. Great for kids.
Will there be new Mario games on Switch?
Rumors point to a new 2D Mario in 2024. But with Switch successor looming, expect remasters like Super Mario RPG rather than big new entries.
Smart Buying Strategies for Mario Switch Games
? Pro Tip: Set Deku Deals alerts for physical copies. Saw Super Mario Odyssey hit $30 at Walmart last Black Friday. Digital sales happen too - Mario + Rabbids goes 75% off regularly.
My biggest mistake? Buying Mario Party Superstars digitally. Takes up minimal space, but I could've resold it after finishing the boards. Now it just collects digital dust.
Performance Showdown: Which Mario Games Run Best?
Switch isn't a powerhouse, but most Mario titles optimize well:
- 60fps Rockstars: Mario Kart 8, Mario Odyssey, Mario Tennis Aces
- 30fps but Stable: Luigi's Mansion 3, Paper Mario
- Docked vs Handheld: Super Mario Maker 2 looks sharper docked. Mario Golf performs identical both modes.
Bowser's Fury has occasional frame drops during intense sequences. Nothing game-breaking though.
Hidden Costs You Should Budget For
That $60 game price isn't always the final cost:
| Game | Potential Extra Costs |
|---|---|
| Super Mario Maker 2 | Nintendo Online subscription ($20/year) |
| Mario Golf: Super Rush | Character pass ($30) |
| Mario Kart 8 Deluxe | Booster Course Pass ($25) |
| Mario Party Superstars | None! Complete package |
The Mario Kart DLC is actually worth it - adds 48 remastered tracks. Mario Golf's character pass? Not so much unless you're competitive.
Personal Recommendations From a Mario Veteran
If I could only pick three Mario games on Switch:
- Super Mario Odyssey - The most essential Switch exclusive
- Mario Kart 8 Deluxe - Timeless multiplayer
- Luigi's Mansion 3 - Best co-op no one talks about
Skip Super Mario Party unless you find it cheap. The newer Mario Party Superstars fixed its flaws with classic boards and proper online play.
Honestly? Most Mario Switch games hold up great. Except Strikers Battle League - felt rushed compared to GameCube version. Stick to the essentials and you'll have hundreds of hours of polished fun.
What's your favorite Mario experience on Switch? I'm still hunting those last few Odyssey moons...
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