Ranking The Best 2D Mario Games A Comprehensive Guide

Hey guys! Let's dive into the wonderful world of 2D Mario games! We're going to explore and rank these classics, giving you the lowdown on what makes each one special. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the Mushroom Kingdom, this guide will help you appreciate the magic of 2D Mario. Get ready for a nostalgic trip filled with jumps, power-ups, and plenty of "Wahoo!"

Why 2D Mario Games Still Rock

2D Mario games hold a special place in the hearts of gamers for their timeless gameplay, creative level design, and charming characters. These games are the foundation of the Mario franchise, setting the standard for platformers and influencing countless titles. The simplicity of the controls combined with the depth of level design creates a gameplay experience that is both accessible and challenging. From the early days of the NES to the modern era of the Switch, 2D Mario has consistently delivered fun and innovative experiences. Let’s explore why these games continue to resonate with players of all ages.

The enduring appeal of 2D Mario lies in its perfect blend of simplicity and depth. The core mechanics are easy to grasp: jump, run, and occasionally throw a fireball. However, mastering these mechanics and navigating the intricately designed levels requires skill and precision. This balance makes the games accessible to newcomers while still offering a challenge for experienced players. The level design in these games is nothing short of masterful, with each world introducing new themes, enemies, and obstacles. From the lush green fields of World 1-1 to the treacherous lava-filled castles, every level is crafted to perfection, offering a unique and engaging experience. The 2D perspective allows for a focus on precise platforming and exploration, encouraging players to discover hidden areas and secrets. This emphasis on exploration and discovery adds another layer of depth to the gameplay, making each playthrough feel fresh and exciting.

Moreover, the charm of 2D Mario games is undeniable. The vibrant colors, catchy music, and iconic characters create a world that is both whimsical and inviting. Mario, Luigi, Peach, and the ever-present Bowser are instantly recognizable and beloved characters. The enemies, from Goombas and Koopa Troopas to more menacing foes like Thwomps and Boos, are equally memorable. The power-ups, such as the Super Mushroom, Fire Flower, and Super Star, add variety and excitement to the gameplay, allowing players to overcome obstacles in creative ways. The 2D art style has a timeless quality, evoking a sense of nostalgia while still looking crisp and vibrant on modern screens. This timeless visual appeal, combined with the engaging gameplay and memorable characters, is a key reason why 2D Mario games continue to be cherished by gamers of all ages.

Our Ranking Criteria

Before we jump into the rankings, let's talk about how we're judging these games. We're looking at several factors, including:

• Gameplay: How fun and engaging is the game? Are the controls tight and responsive?
• Level Design: Are the levels creative, challenging, and rewarding to explore?
• Innovation: Does the game introduce new mechanics or ideas that set it apart?
• Graphics and Sound: How well does the game look and sound, considering its time of release?
• Overall Fun Factor: This is the most important! How much did we enjoy playing the game?

Gameplay Mechanics and Controls

Gameplay is the heart and soul of any 2D Mario game, and the responsiveness and precision of the controls are paramount. A well-designed 2D Mario game should feel intuitive, allowing players to seamlessly execute jumps, dashes, and power-up abilities. The physics should be consistent and predictable, ensuring that every jump and movement feels deliberate and controlled. Games that nail these fundamental aspects of gameplay are often the most enjoyable and replayable. The core mechanics of jumping, running, and collecting power-ups need to be polished to perfection, providing a satisfying sense of control and mastery. When the gameplay feels tight and responsive, players can fully immerse themselves in the world and focus on the challenges ahead.

The innovation in gameplay mechanics also plays a significant role in our ranking. Each 2D Mario game has introduced new elements that enhance the experience, whether it's the wall-jumping in Super Mario World, the power-up suit abilities in Super Mario Bros. 3, or the unique character abilities in New Super Mario Bros. Wii. These additions not only add variety to the gameplay but also open up new possibilities for level design and player strategies. Games that successfully integrate these new mechanics without sacrificing the core Mario formula are highly regarded. The ability to experiment with different power-ups and techniques adds a layer of depth and excitement, encouraging players to explore every corner of the levels and discover new ways to overcome obstacles. This constant evolution of gameplay mechanics is a key factor in the enduring appeal of the 2D Mario series.

Level Design and World Themes

Level design is another critical aspect of 2D Mario games. The best games feature levels that are not only challenging but also rewarding to explore. A well-designed level should offer a variety of paths and secrets, encouraging players to experiment and discover hidden areas. The levels should also be visually appealing, with vibrant colors, detailed backgrounds, and memorable landmarks. The arrangement of platforms, enemies, and obstacles should be carefully crafted to create a balanced and engaging experience. Games that excel in level design often feature a mix of straightforward paths and more complex challenges, catering to both casual players and seasoned veterans. The sense of satisfaction that comes from overcoming a particularly difficult section or discovering a hidden secret is a hallmark of great 2D Mario level design.

World themes also contribute significantly to the overall experience. Each 2D Mario game typically features a diverse range of worlds, each with its own unique visual style and gameplay mechanics. From the classic green plains to underwater levels, icy landscapes, and lava-filled castles, the variety of environments keeps the gameplay fresh and exciting. The best games use these themes to introduce new enemies, obstacles, and challenges, ensuring that each world feels distinct and memorable. The thematic consistency within each world, combined with the overall progression through the game, creates a compelling narrative structure that enhances the player's sense of adventure. The imaginative and varied world themes are a testament to the creativity of the Mario development teams.

Graphics, Sound, and Innovation

Graphics and sound are essential components of any video game, and 2D Mario games are no exception. While the graphical capabilities have evolved significantly over the years, the art style and visual design remain consistently charming and vibrant. The best games use their graphical capabilities to create visually stunning environments and memorable character designs. The animations should be fluid and expressive, bringing the characters and world to life. Similarly, the sound design should be engaging and immersive, with catchy music, memorable sound effects, and a cohesive audio landscape. The iconic Mario themes, composed by the legendary Koji Kondo, are instantly recognizable and contribute significantly to the overall atmosphere of the games. The effective use of graphics and sound enhances the player's experience, making the games more enjoyable and memorable.

Innovation is a crucial factor in the ranking of 2D Mario games. The series has a long history of introducing new mechanics, power-ups, and gameplay elements that push the boundaries of the platforming genre. Games that dare to experiment and innovate often stand out as the most memorable and influential. Whether it's the introduction of wall-jumping in Super Mario World, the unique power-up suits in Super Mario Bros. 3, or the cooperative multiplayer in New Super Mario Bros. Wii, innovation keeps the series fresh and exciting. Games that successfully integrate new ideas without sacrificing the core Mario formula are highly regarded. The ability to surprise and delight players with new gameplay possibilities is a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the development teams. This commitment to innovation is a key reason why the 2D Mario series continues to be a leader in the platforming genre.

Our Definitive 2D Mario Games Ranking

Alright, guys, let's get to the rankings! Remember, this is our opinion, and your list might look different. But we're confident that our top picks are truly special games. Let the countdown begin!

1. Super Mario Bros. 3 (NES)

Super Mario Bros. 3 is widely regarded as one of the greatest video games of all time, and for good reason. This NES masterpiece set the standard for 2D platformers with its innovative level design, diverse worlds, and plethora of power-ups. From the moment you start playing, you're transported to a vibrant and imaginative world filled with secrets and surprises. The game's attention to detail, coupled with its addictive gameplay, makes it a timeless classic that continues to captivate players of all ages.

The gameplay in Super Mario Bros. 3 is nothing short of perfection. The controls are tight and responsive, allowing for precise platforming and skillful maneuvers. The introduction of new power-ups, such as the Super Leaf (which grants Mario the ability to fly as Raccoon Mario) and the Hammer Suit (which allows Mario to throw hammers and withstand certain attacks), adds a layer of depth and strategy to the gameplay. These power-ups not only enhance Mario's abilities but also open up new possibilities for level exploration and enemy encounters. The levels themselves are meticulously designed, with hidden areas, secret passages, and challenging obstacles that encourage players to think creatively and master their skills. The variety of world themes, from the classic grass lands to the treacherous pipe worlds and the colossal airships, keeps the gameplay fresh and engaging throughout the entire adventure. The game's difficulty curve is perfectly balanced, providing a challenge for experienced players while remaining accessible to newcomers. The sense of accomplishment that comes from completing a particularly difficult level or discovering a hidden secret is immensely satisfying.

The level design in Super Mario Bros. 3 is a masterclass in creativity and ingenuity. Each level is carefully crafted to present a unique set of challenges, requiring players to utilize their skills and power-ups effectively. The game introduces a wide range of enemy types, each with its own behavior patterns and weaknesses, forcing players to adapt their strategies. The inclusion of mini-games, such as the matching game and the Toad houses, adds variety to the gameplay and provides opportunities to earn valuable items and power-ups. The world map is also a significant innovation, allowing players to navigate between levels and choose their own path through the game. This non-linear progression adds a sense of freedom and exploration, encouraging players to revisit levels and discover new secrets. The level design in Super Mario Bros. 3 is so well-executed that it has influenced countless platformers since its release. The game's ability to seamlessly blend challenging gameplay with creative level design is a testament to the skill and vision of the developers.

Super Mario Bros. 3 is also notable for its graphics and sound, which were groundbreaking for the NES era. The game's vibrant colors, detailed sprites, and fluid animations bring the Mushroom Kingdom to life in a way that few other games of the time could match. The music, composed by the legendary Koji Kondo, is instantly recognizable and perfectly complements the gameplay. The catchy melodies and memorable tunes enhance the overall atmosphere of the game, creating a sense of excitement and adventure. The sound effects are equally well-designed, providing clear and informative feedback to the player. The combination of impressive graphics and unforgettable music makes Super Mario Bros. 3 a sensory delight, immersing players in its charming and whimsical world. The game's visual and auditory presentation has stood the test of time, remaining as impressive and engaging today as it was upon its initial release. This timeless appeal is a key factor in the game's enduring popularity and critical acclaim.

2. Super Mario World (SNES)

Next up, we have Super Mario World for the Super Nintendo. This game expanded on the formula of Super Mario Bros. 3 in amazing ways. The introduction of Yoshi, the massive world map, and the Super Cape power-up made this game a true classic. The vibrant graphics and smooth gameplay were a huge leap forward for the series.

Super Mario World's gameplay is a testament to its enduring appeal. The addition of Yoshi, Mario's dinosaur companion, revolutionized the platforming experience. Yoshi can eat enemies, flutter jump, and even spit fire (with the right shell), adding a new layer of strategy and exploration to the game. The Super Cape, another iconic power-up, allows Mario to soar through the air and perform a spinning attack, providing a thrilling sense of freedom and control. The levels in Super Mario World are designed with these new abilities in mind, offering a plethora of opportunities to explore hidden areas and overcome challenging obstacles. The game's physics feel incredibly polished, allowing for precise jumps and maneuvers. The sense of momentum and control is crucial for navigating the intricate level designs, which often require a combination of skillful platforming and strategic use of power-ups. The game's difficulty curve is also well-balanced, providing a rewarding challenge for experienced players while remaining accessible to newcomers. The sense of satisfaction that comes from mastering the game's mechanics and completing the levels is a hallmark of Super Mario World's exceptional gameplay.

The level design in Super Mario World is widely regarded as some of the best in the 2D Mario series. The game features a massive world map with a branching path system, allowing players to choose their own route and discover hidden levels and secrets. This non-linear progression adds a sense of exploration and discovery that is rarely seen in platformers. The levels themselves are incredibly varied and inventive, with each world introducing new themes, enemies, and obstacles. From the vibrant Yoshi's Island to the treacherous Vanilla Dome and the spooky Forest of Illusion, every level is a unique and memorable experience. The game's secret exits and hidden levels encourage players to explore every corner of the world, rewarding their curiosity with new challenges and surprises. The level design often incorporates clever puzzles and challenges that require players to think outside the box and utilize their abilities in creative ways. The attention to detail in the level design is remarkable, with hidden items, secret passages, and cleverly placed enemies that keep players engaged and entertained. The world design also enhances the gameplay because it allows players to replay levels and discover new secrets.

Super Mario World's graphics and sound were a significant leap forward for the series, showcasing the capabilities of the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). The game's vibrant colors, detailed sprites, and smooth animations bring the Mushroom Kingdom to life in stunning detail. The characters are expressive and charming, and the environments are rich and immersive. The game's visuals are not only technically impressive but also artistically beautiful, with a distinctive style that has stood the test of time. The music, once again composed by Koji Kondo, is a masterpiece of 16-bit sound. The catchy melodies and memorable tunes perfectly complement the gameplay, creating an atmosphere of excitement and adventure. The game's sound effects are also well-designed, providing clear and informative feedback to the player. The combination of impressive graphics and unforgettable music makes Super Mario World a sensory delight, immersing players in its whimsical world. The game's visual and auditory presentation remains as impressive and engaging today as it was upon its initial release, solidifying its status as a classic of the genre.

3. Super Mario Bros. (NES)

The original Super Mario Bros. is a landmark title that revitalized the video game industry. Its simple yet addictive gameplay, iconic characters, and memorable music made it an instant classic. The game's influence can still be felt in modern platformers, and its legacy as one of the most important games ever made is undeniable.

The gameplay in Super Mario Bros. is deceptively simple, yet incredibly engaging. The core mechanics of running, jumping, and collecting power-ups are intuitive and easy to grasp, making the game accessible to players of all skill levels. However, mastering these mechanics and navigating the challenging levels requires skill and precision. The game's physics are tight and responsive, allowing for precise jumps and movements. The inclusion of power-ups, such as the Super Mushroom (which makes Mario bigger and stronger), the Fire Flower (which allows Mario to throw fireballs), and the Super Star (which makes Mario invincible), adds variety and excitement to the gameplay. These power-ups provide players with temporary advantages, allowing them to overcome obstacles and defeat enemies more easily. The game's difficulty curve is challenging but fair, gradually introducing new enemies and obstacles as the player progresses. The sense of accomplishment that comes from completing a difficult level or reaching the end of a world is immensely satisfying.

The level design in Super Mario Bros. is iconic and influential. The game's levels are meticulously crafted, with a focus on platforming challenges and hidden secrets. The levels are designed to be replayed and explored, with hidden blocks, secret passages, and warp zones that allow players to skip ahead to later worlds. The game's world themes, from the classic green plains to the underground caverns and lava-filled castles, are instantly recognizable and have been replicated in countless games since. The game's level design often incorporates clever tricks and traps, such as hidden Goombas and bottomless pits, which require players to be cautious and strategic in their movements. The sense of discovery and exploration is a key element of the game's appeal, encouraging players to experiment and find their own path through the levels. The attention to detail in the level design is remarkable, with each level feeling unique and memorable. The game's level design has been praised for its balance of challenge and accessibility, making it a benchmark for platformer game design.

Super Mario Bros.'s graphics and sound were groundbreaking for their time. The game's vibrant colors, charming character sprites, and iconic backgrounds helped to establish the visual style of the Mario franchise. The game's graphics are simple but effective, with clear and recognizable characters and environments. The animations are smooth and expressive, bringing the characters and world to life. The music, composed by Koji Kondo, is one of the most recognizable and beloved soundtracks in video game history. The game's main theme is instantly recognizable and has become synonymous with the Mario franchise. The game's sound effects are also iconic, with the distinctive sound of Mario jumping, collecting coins, and defeating enemies. The combination of memorable graphics and unforgettable music has helped to make Super Mario Bros. a cultural phenomenon, solidifying its place in video game history. The game's visual and auditory presentation remains charming and engaging today, demonstrating its timeless appeal.

4. Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island (SNES)

A prequel to Super Mario World, Yoshi's Island took the series in a new direction with its charming art style and unique gameplay mechanics. Playing as Yoshi, you carry Baby Mario through beautifully hand-drawn levels, tossing eggs and defeating enemies. The game's vibrant visuals and innovative gameplay made it a standout title on the SNES.

Yoshi's Island's gameplay mechanics are a refreshing departure from the traditional Mario formula, offering a unique and engaging platforming experience. Players control Yoshi, who carries Baby Mario on his back, through a series of vibrant and imaginative levels. Yoshi's abilities, such as his flutter jump, ground pound, and egg-throwing, provide a diverse range of options for navigating obstacles and defeating enemies. The egg-throwing mechanic, in particular, is a standout feature, allowing players to target enemies and objects from a distance. The game's level design is built around Yoshi's abilities, with many challenges requiring creative use of his flutter jump and egg-throwing skills. The health system, represented by Baby Mario's star timer, adds a layer of urgency to the gameplay. If Yoshi is hit by an enemy, Baby Mario floats away in a bubble, and the timer starts counting down. Players must quickly retrieve Baby Mario before the timer runs out, adding a thrilling sense of risk and reward to the gameplay. The game's difficulty curve is well-balanced, gradually introducing new challenges and mechanics as the player progresses. The sense of accomplishment that comes from mastering Yoshi's abilities and completing the levels is immensely satisfying.

The level design in Yoshi's Island is widely praised for its creativity and visual flair. The game's levels are designed to resemble hand-drawn illustrations, with vibrant colors, whimsical characters, and imaginative environments. Each level is filled with hidden secrets, collectibles, and challenges that encourage exploration and replayability. The game's world themes are diverse and memorable, from the lush green plains to the underwater caves and lava-filled fortresses. The level design often incorporates clever puzzles and challenges that require players to think outside the box and utilize Yoshi's abilities in creative ways. The game's bonus stages and mini-games add variety to the gameplay, providing opportunities to earn extra lives and items. The sense of discovery and wonder is a key element of the game's appeal, encouraging players to explore every corner of the levels and uncover hidden secrets. The attention to detail in the level design is remarkable, with each level feeling unique and memorable. The unique visual style enhances the level design and overall gameplay, making it stand out.

Yoshi's Island's graphics and sound are a visual and auditory delight. The game's hand-drawn art style is charming and distinctive, with vibrant colors, expressive characters, and imaginative environments. The game's graphics are a showcase of the Super Nintendo's capabilities, with detailed sprites, smooth animations, and stunning visual effects. The game's visual presentation is not only technically impressive but also artistically beautiful, creating a whimsical and immersive world. The music, composed by Koji Kondo, is another highlight of the game. The soundtrack is filled with catchy melodies and memorable tunes that perfectly complement the gameplay. The game's sound effects are also well-designed, adding to the overall atmosphere of the game. The combination of unique graphics and memorable music makes Yoshi's Island a sensory delight, immersing players in its charming world. The game's visual and auditory presentation has stood the test of time, remaining as impressive and engaging today as it was upon its initial release. It's this charm and creativity that make it stand out.

5. Super Mario Advance 4: Super Mario Bros. 3 (GBA)

This Game Boy Advance remake of Super Mario Bros. 3 is more than just a port. It includes enhanced graphics, additional levels from the Japanese-only Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels, and e-Reader support for even more content. It's the definitive portable version of a classic.

Super Mario Advance 4's gameplay is largely based on the original Super Mario Bros. 3, which is renowned for its tight controls, inventive level design, and plethora of power-ups. The game retains the core mechanics of running, jumping, and utilizing power-ups, but it also introduces several enhancements and additions that make it a unique experience. The game includes all of the original levels from Super Mario Bros. 3, but it also features a selection of levels from the Japanese-exclusive Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels, providing an extra layer of challenge for seasoned players. The e-Reader support allows players to scan special cards to unlock new levels, power-ups, and items, adding a significant amount of content to the game. The controls are responsive and precise, allowing for skillful maneuvers and platforming. The inclusion of new power-ups and abilities, such as the Cape Feather, provides players with new ways to traverse the levels and defeat enemies. The game's difficulty curve is challenging but fair, with a mix of straightforward levels and more complex challenges. The sense of accomplishment that comes from completing the levels is immensely satisfying, especially when discovering hidden secrets and bonus areas.

The level design in Super Mario Advance 4 is a combination of the classic Super Mario Bros. 3 levels and the challenging levels from Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels. The original levels are meticulously crafted, with a focus on platforming challenges, hidden secrets, and inventive enemy placements. The levels from The Lost Levels are notoriously difficult, featuring intricate layouts, tricky jumps, and numerous pitfalls. The inclusion of these levels adds a significant challenge for players who are familiar with the original game. The e-Reader support allows for the addition of even more levels, which are designed with the game's mechanics and power-ups in mind. These levels often feature unique themes, obstacles, and challenges, providing a fresh and engaging experience for players. The level design in Super Mario Advance 4 is varied and engaging, with a mix of classic and new content that keeps the gameplay fresh. The game encourages exploration and discovery, with hidden items, secret passages, and bonus areas scattered throughout the levels. The attention to detail in the level design is remarkable, with each level feeling unique and memorable.

Super Mario Advance 4's graphics and sound are enhanced compared to the original NES version, taking advantage of the Game Boy Advance's capabilities. The game features vibrant colors, detailed sprites, and smooth animations, bringing the Mushroom Kingdom to life on the handheld screen. The game's visual presentation is crisp and clear, making it easy to see the action even on the small screen. The game also includes some graphical enhancements, such as improved backgrounds and special effects. The music, originally composed by Koji Kondo, is faithfully recreated and sounds fantastic on the Game Boy Advance's sound system. The game's soundtrack is filled with catchy melodies and memorable tunes that perfectly complement the gameplay. The sound effects are also well-done, adding to the overall atmosphere of the game. The combination of enhanced graphics and faithful music makes Super Mario Advance 4 a treat for the senses, providing a visually and aurally engaging experience. The game's presentation is polished and professional, showcasing the best of the Game Boy Advance's capabilities. The visual and audio experience make the game one of the best-looking games on the system.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, guys! Our ranking of the best 2D Mario games. We hope you enjoyed the trip down memory lane. Whether you agree with our list or have your own favorites, there's no denying the lasting impact and sheer fun of these games. Now, if you'll excuse us, we're off to play some more Mario!