Nintendo Switch Mario Games: Your 2022 Guide

Hey gaming enthusiasts! Are you ready to dive into the vibrant world of the Nintendo Switch and all things Mario in 2022? Well, buckle up because we're about to embark on a journey through the best Mario games the Switch had to offer that year. Whether you're a seasoned plumber or a newcomer to the Mushroom Kingdom, this guide is your one-stop shop for everything Mario on the Switch. We will cover all the games, from platforming adventures to kart racing extravaganzas, ensuring you don't miss out on any of the fun. So, grab your controllers, put on your Mario hats, and let's-a-go!

The Super Mario Odyssey Phenomenon

Let's kick things off with a true masterpiece: Super Mario Odyssey. Guys, this game isn't just a Mario game; it's an experience. Released in 2017, it continued to dominate the conversations in 2022. It's a game that redefined what a 3D Mario adventure could be. The core mechanic, the capture ability, allows Mario to take control of various enemies and objects, leading to incredibly creative gameplay moments. Imagine controlling a T-Rex to smash through obstacles or possessing a Bullet Bill to zoom through the air. The possibilities are endless! The game is set in the open-world kingdoms, each with its unique theme, design, and challenges. From the bustling New Donk City, inspired by New York, to the serene Luncheon Kingdom, there's always something new to discover. The exploration aspect is top-notch, with hidden Power Moons scattered throughout the levels, encouraging players to explore every nook and cranny. The story itself is a classic Mario tale: Bowser has kidnapped Princess Peach, and Mario must journey across the globe to save her. But, the story is far from the only thing that makes this game special; the gameplay is what makes it stand out. Every kingdom is a playground full of creativity and imagination. The level design is brilliant, offering a perfect blend of linear paths and open-ended exploration. Whether you're a casual gamer or a hardcore Mario fan, Super Mario Odyssey has something for everyone. It's a game that captures the essence of what makes Mario games so beloved: the fun, the joy, and the endless sense of discovery. This game is still one of the best games available on the Switch as of 2022 and still holds up as one of the best games ever made!

Beyond the captivating gameplay, Super Mario Odyssey shines in its presentation. The graphics are vibrant and detailed, bringing the diverse kingdoms to life. The soundtrack is a masterpiece, blending classic Mario tunes with new, memorable melodies. The attention to detail is remarkable, making every moment of the game a delight. From the moment you put on your cap to the final showdown, you'll be hooked. The control scheme is intuitive and responsive, allowing for precise movement and action. Whether you're playing with Joy-Cons or the Pro Controller, the game feels fantastic. It's a testament to Nintendo's commitment to creating polished, accessible gaming experiences. The sheer variety of challenges keeps you engaged for hours on end, from platforming challenges to puzzle-solving segments. The game is packed with secrets and collectibles, rewarding those who are curious and adventurous. The post-game content is also significant, providing even more challenges and reasons to keep playing. In 2022, Super Mario Odyssey remained a must-play title for any Nintendo Switch owner, solidifying its place as a modern classic. It's a game that proves why Mario continues to be the king of platformers, showcasing the magic of gaming in its purest form.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: The Ultimate Kart Racing Experience

Alright, guys, let's switch gears and talk about Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. If you're looking for a dose of adrenaline-pumping kart racing, this is the game for you. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe took the already amazing Mario Kart 8 from the Wii U and supercharged it with extra content and improvements, making it the definitive Mario Kart experience. From the moment you fire up the game, you're greeted with a vibrant world of colorful tracks, quirky characters, and exhilarating races. The core gameplay is simple: choose your character, kart, and tires, then race against your opponents to cross the finish line first. But don't let the simplicity fool you; there's a lot of depth to master. Drifting around corners, using items strategically, and mastering the track layouts are all crucial for success. In 2022, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe was still the go-to multiplayer game for many Switch owners, perfect for parties and casual gaming sessions alike. The game supports up to four players in local multiplayer, making it ideal for gatherings. The online multiplayer mode is also robust, allowing you to race against players from around the world. The online experience is smooth and lag-free, ensuring a fun and competitive environment. The game features a wide variety of tracks, ranging from classic courses from previous Mario Kart games to brand-new, imaginative creations. Each track has its unique layout, obstacles, and shortcuts, keeping the races fresh and exciting. The item system is a key part of the gameplay, allowing you to use power-ups to gain an advantage over your opponents. From the classic red shells and green shells to the star and lightning bolt, the items add an element of unpredictability and excitement to the races.

One of the standout features of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is its accessibility. The game offers various assist features, such as auto-steering and smart-drifting, making it easier for newcomers to get into the action. At the same time, the game provides enough depth and challenge for experienced players to stay engaged. The character roster is extensive, featuring a wide range of Mario characters, including Mario, Luigi, Peach, Bowser, and many more. Each character has unique stats, influencing their kart's speed, acceleration, and handling. This allows players to experiment with different combinations to find the perfect fit for their play style. The kart customization options are also vast, allowing you to change your kart's body, tires, and glider. This enables you to fine-tune your kart's performance to match the track and your driving style. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is not just a game; it's a social experience. It brings people together, whether you're racing against friends on the couch or competing against players online. The game's fun, easy-to-pick-up gameplay makes it accessible to everyone, regardless of their gaming experience. The game's longevity is also impressive, with constant updates and new content being added. The game is still very popular among Switch players in 2022. It's a title that's worth revisiting again and again.

New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe: Classic Platforming Fun

Let's head back to the basics with New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe. This game brings back the classic 2D side-scrolling platforming that many of us grew up with, and it's as charming and fun as ever. If you're a fan of the traditional Mario formula, this game is a must-play. In 2022, it was still a great option for those who wanted a straightforward, enjoyable platforming experience. This version of the game includes the original New Super Mario Bros. U, along with the New Super Luigi U expansion, giving you two games in one package. The game features vibrant graphics, catchy music, and a host of exciting levels. The gameplay is simple and easy to pick up, making it perfect for both new and experienced players. The main objective is to navigate through various levels, collect coins, defeat enemies, and reach the flagpole at the end. The game offers a variety of power-ups, such as the Super Mushroom, Fire Flower, and Super Star, which enhance your abilities and help you overcome obstacles. One of the best aspects of New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is its multiplayer mode, supporting up to four players. This allows you and your friends or family to play through the game together, adding a whole new level of fun and chaos. The co-op gameplay is entertaining, with players helping each other through levels or competing to be the first to reach the end. The inclusion of the New Super Luigi U expansion is a welcome addition, offering a more challenging experience. This expansion features redesigned levels with different layouts and obstacles, making it a great way to extend the game's lifespan. The game also introduces new playable characters, such as Nabbit, who is invincible to enemies, making it easier for younger players or those new to the game.

The level design is excellent, offering a good balance of challenge and accessibility. The levels are filled with creative ideas, from underwater sections to aerial challenges. The game also incorporates new mechanics and power-ups, keeping the gameplay fresh and exciting. The graphics are bright and colorful, bringing the Mushroom Kingdom to life in a way that's visually appealing. The soundtrack is catchy, with memorable tunes that complement the gameplay perfectly. New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe may not be the most innovative Mario game, but it delivers a solid platforming experience that's sure to please fans of the series. Its accessible gameplay, engaging levels, and multiplayer fun make it a great choice for all ages. It's a game that is easy to pick up and play but offers enough depth and challenge to keep you entertained for hours. It's a perfect example of classic Mario gameplay, done right. This title provides a fantastic opportunity to introduce the younger generation to the joy of Mario games. It's an excellent choice for a family game night, or when you just want a dose of nostalgic fun.

Mario Party Superstars: A Party Game Extravaganza

Alright, let's get the party started with Mario Party Superstars! If you're looking for a game that's all about fun, competition, and a bit of luck, this is the one for you. This game brings together the best elements of the Mario Party series, featuring classic boards and minigames from the Nintendo 64 era, polished up and ready for the Switch. Mario Party Superstars is designed to be a social experience. The game is perfect for playing with friends and family, either locally or online. The core gameplay involves navigating a game board, rolling dice, and competing in minigames. The boards are filled with various events and challenges, and the minigames test your skills, reflexes, and luck. The variety of minigames keeps the gameplay fresh and exciting. From competitive races to skill-based challenges, there's always something new to try. The game features a vast collection of minigames, ensuring that there's something for everyone. Whether you're a fan of speed, strategy, or quick reflexes, there's a minigame that will suit your preferences. The boards are also filled with a variety of events, such as item shops, chance spaces, and star spaces. These events add an element of unpredictability to the game, keeping the competition exciting. The online multiplayer mode is a great addition, allowing you to play with friends or compete against players from around the world. The game's online experience is smooth and lag-free, ensuring a fun and competitive environment. The game's presentation is also top-notch, with vibrant graphics, catchy music, and charming character animations. The game is a visual treat, making every moment of gameplay enjoyable. Mario Party Superstars is a game that's all about fun and friendly competition. It's a game that brings people together, whether you're playing with friends on the couch or competing against players online.

The game is accessible to players of all skill levels, making it a great choice for parties and gatherings. The game is easy to pick up and play, but it also offers enough depth and strategy to keep experienced players engaged. The character selection is also extensive, featuring a wide range of Mario characters, each with their unique personalities and animations. The game's replayability is also impressive, with a wide variety of boards and minigames to keep you entertained for hours on end. Whether you're a seasoned Mario Party veteran or a newcomer to the series, Mario Party Superstars is a must-play title. It's a game that captures the essence of what makes Mario Party so beloved: the fun, the competition, and the endless possibilities. The game's blend of classic boards, new minigames, and online multiplayer makes it a standout title on the Nintendo Switch in 2022. It is a game that is guaranteed to provide hours of laughter and excitement, making it perfect for any social gathering. This game allows you to bring everyone together for a fun time.

Other Notable Mario Games on Switch in 2022

While the games mentioned above were the biggest Mario titles on the Switch in 2022, there were other games that deserve a mention:

• Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury: This is a great choice for anyone looking for a fun and cooperative platforming adventure. It features a blend of 3D and 2D gameplay, along with a unique open-world section, Bowser's Fury. This is a game where your fun is guaranteed.
• Mario Golf: Super Rush: If you're a fan of golf, you should definitely check this one out. It offers a fun and accessible golf experience with a Mario twist, including special shots and various game modes. This title is a hole-in-one for all.

Conclusion: Your Mario Adventure Awaits!

So, there you have it, guys! A comprehensive guide to the best Mario games on the Nintendo Switch in 2022. The Switch offers a fantastic collection of Mario games for players of all ages and preferences. Whether you're looking for a thrilling platforming adventure, a competitive kart racing experience, or a fun party game, there's a Mario title for you. Each game offers something unique, from the open-world exploration of Super Mario Odyssey to the classic platforming of New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe. With such a diverse library, the Nintendo Switch is the perfect console for Mario fans. So, grab your Switch, gather your friends, and get ready for hours of fun in the Mushroom Kingdom. Remember, the best part of gaming is the joy it brings. Happy gaming, and have a blast exploring the world of Mario!