The Super Mario series is widely appreciated and has been scrutinised by gamers and critics alike for decades. It seems improbable that any Mario game could be "underrated" when the series is such a prominent part of gaming culture. Yet, there are indeed gems within this storied franchise that don't shine as brightly in the public eye, overshadowed by their groundbreaking siblings or affected by timing and platform constraints. As we celebrate the iconic MAR10 day, it's a perfect opportunity to cast a spotlight on ten Mario games that, while may not technically be underrated, certainly merit a second glance.
First up is "New Super Mario Bros. Wii," released in 2009. Returning to 2D platforming for the first time since the early '90s with "Super Mario World," this Wii entry introduced chaotic, four-player local multiplayer, rekindling the side-scrolling magic and infusing it with social play. Despite some players being turned off by its perceived cuteness, it is a heartfelt tribute to the series that evolved the multiplayer aspect beautifully and showcased Penguin Mario, a power-up worth donning over and over again.
"Super Paper Mario," which debuted on the Wii in 2007, is a fascinating blend of platforming and RPG elements. This title introduces a 'world-flipping' mechanic, transforming classic 2D gameplay into a 3D perspective. Originally intended for the GameCube, it stands out from other series entries with its unusual gameplay and the quirky RPG-platformer mix that distinguishes it within Mario's rich history.
A collaboration with Square Enix, "Mario Hoops 3 on 3" for the DS (2006) brought Mario to the basketball court with a burst of vibrant, fast-paced action—complete with touch controls and a stunning presentation. Despite being a departure from traditional Mario adventures, the inclusion of Final Fantasy characters bolsters its appeal.
In the role-playing genre, "Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story + Bowser Jr.'s Journey" on the 3DS provides a polished update to the original DS classic. Released in 2019, this dual experience includes enhanced visuals, fresh features, and the transparent charm of exploring the inner workings of Bowser himself, making it a definitive version of a fan-favorite Mario RPG.
The "Mario Strikers: Battle League" on the Switch showcases competitive sports game design with stunning visuals and engaging gameplay. While initially it didn’t meet everyone's expectations, subsequent updates added new modes and characters, significantly enhancing the experience and securing its rank among the best sports games available for the platform.
From the portable realm, we have "Super Mario Land" for the original Game Boy (1989), a pioneering title that translated Mario's platforming to a handheld device and played a significant role in setting the stage for Mario's mobile journeys. Despite its brevity, it provides a unique and compelling variation on the Mario formula worthy of attention.
"Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope" for the Switch is a hybrid that sees Mario joining forces with the Rabbids to deliver a strategy game filled with inventive puzzles and quests. Adopting a formula that champions greater player freedom in combat, this sequel continues to charm with its lively presentation and engaging gameplay.
Another sports entry, "Mario Tennis Aces," released for the Switch in 2018, elevates Mario’s tennis legacy with a highly polished arcade experience, Adventure Mode, and convincing mechanics. Casting aside the shadow of its less successful predecessor, Aces is a testament to how far the series has come in terms of gameplay and presentation.
The NES classic "Super Mario Bros. 2," known for its departure from the series' traditional platforming with its unique lifting and throwing mechanics, is truly one of a kind. While it veers from the standard mechanic, it significantly influenced the series' future entries and is worthy of recognition for its bold design choices.
Lastly, "Super Mario 3D Land" for the 3DS (2011) serves as a bridge between the 2D and 3D Mario titles. It ingeniously harnesses the 3DS's stereoscopic capabilities, crafting a gameplay experience that's both familiar and groundbreaking, emphasizing how the three-dimensional effect can enhance a platforming adventure.
Through these selections, it's clear that Mario's universe is teeming with entries that deserve more than a cursory glance. Some might slide under the radar, but each offers a distinctive slice of the Mario legacy. Whether it's through innovation, charm, or solid gameplay, these titles have earned their place in the pantheon of Mario games and serve as a reminder that there's always more to explore in the ever-expanding Mushroom Kingdom.
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