Best Mario Games 2026: Every Title Ranked and Worth Playing
Best Mario Games 2026 ranked across every type, from 3D and 2D platformers to racing, RPG and party, with our ranking criteria and a look at the top three.
From a mustachioed plumber stomping turtles on an eight bit screen to a hero who has stayed with gamers for decades, Mario games have branched into so many styles that it is hard to know which to play first. This best mario games 2026 article ranks the finest Mario games clearly, covering 3D and 2D platformers, racing, RPG and party, with how we ranked them and a breakdown of the top three you should not miss. By the end you will know which entry to start with for your own play style.
Why Mario games charm players of every age
What makes Mario games special is design that is easy to pick up but deep, since anyone can play within minutes yet there is always more skill to master. Each entry is full of brightness and fresh ideas, so they are fun for kids and adults alike. Another reason they win hearts is variety, across adventure, racing and party, so whatever you like to play, there is usually a Mario game that fits.
How we ranked these Mario games, not just by age
This ranking does not only look at which entry is old or legendary, but weighs gameplay fun, value for the price, level design and creative ideas, how well it suits the Switch solo and in multiplayer, and replay value that does not get old. The higher ranked games are entries that are still genuinely fun today, not just famous in the past, so this list works as a real buying guide.
The best Mario games ranked for 2026
Here is the Mario ranking with genre and highlights, from number one down.
Rank | Game | Type | Highlight |
1 | Super Mario Odyssey | 3D | A free, creative trip across many worlds |
2 | Super Mario Bros. Wonder | 2D | Loads of fresh twists, great for groups |
3 | Mario Kart 8 Deluxe | Racing | The best value pick, fun with anyone |
4 | Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury | 3D | Great co-op and excellent level design |
5 | Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door | RPG | A charming, deep story in a lovely remake |
6 | Super Mario RPG | RPG | A legendary remake, easy and warm |
7 | Mario Party Superstars | Party | Tons of minigames, chaos every time |
8 | New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe | 2D | A classic the whole family can play |
The top three Mario games you cannot miss
Number one, Super Mario Odyssey, is the most free and creative 3D adventure, taking you across varied worlds full of surprises. Number two, Super Mario Bros. Wonder, is the modern 2D entry packed with fresh twists and great multiplayer. Number three, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, is the best value pick, endlessly playable solo and with friends. These three are a great start for anyone who wants to feel why Mario games are so special.
3D, 2D or party: pick the Mario that fits you
If you love adventure and exploring, 3D entries like Super Mario Odyssey and Super Mario 3D World are the pick. If you love classic jump and run, the 2D Super Mario Bros. Wonder suits you. If you want story and strategy, Paper Mario and Super Mario RPG offer a different flavor. And if you focus on laughs with friends, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Mario Party Superstars will not let you down. Pick the style you like and start there.
The best Mario games to play right now in summary
The best Mario games in 2026 truly cover every type, from 3D adventures and 2D jump and run to racing, RPG and party. What every ranked entry shares is fun that suits all ages and replay value that does not fade, keeping each one worth playing even long after release.
Whether you are a longtime fan returning to a legendary entry or a newcomer just meeting the plumber, this list shows that the charm of Mario games lies in their variety and the tangible fun in every entry.
Want to know which Mario game is on sale and worth grabbing now? Follow eShop deal updates and Nintendo reviews at evangelineneworleans.com, and go enjoy the world of Mario.