How Many Mario Games Are There in 2023? A Deep Dive into the Mushroom Kingdom’s Expansive Universe
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The question “How many Mario games are there?” is deceptively simple. The raw number is impressive, fluctuating depending on how you define a “Mario game.” Are we counting spin-offs? Re-releases? Japan-only titles? Taking all factors into consideration, the Mario franchise has spawned over 200 games of various genres and several sub-series, including Mario Golf, Mario Kart, Mario Party, Mario Tennis, Mario vs. Donkey Kong, and Paper Mario. This includes core platformers, sports titles, puzzle games, and even educational software featuring the iconic plumber. But a more accurate count is closer to 300 if you include all variations, ports, and re-releases. Let’s jump in and investigate this incredible legacy in more detail!
Understanding the Scope of the Mario Universe
Before we delve deeper, it’s essential to establish some ground rules for what constitutes a “Mario game.” For this article, we’re considering:
- Mainline Super Mario Platformers: These are the core titles, like Super Mario Bros., Super Mario World, Super Mario 64, Super Mario Odyssey, and the recent Super Mario Bros. Wonder.
- Spin-off Series: This includes games where Mario characters play a prominent role, even if the gameplay significantly diverges from the platforming genre. Mario Kart, Mario Party, Mario Golf, and Mario Tennis fall into this category.
- Crossovers: Games where Mario characters appear, even if they aren’t the main focus. Super Smash Bros. is a prime example.
- Re-releases and Remakes: Enhanced versions of existing games, such as Super Mario All-Stars, Super Mario 3D All-Stars, and Luigi’s Mansion Dark Moon remake.
- Regional Variations: Games that were only released in specific territories, notably Japan.
We will exclude games where Mario only makes a cameo appearance.
The Core Platforming Adventures: The Super Mario Bros. Series
The foundation of the Mario empire lies in the Super Mario Bros. series, the classic side-scrolling platformers that captivated players worldwide. Starting with the original Super Mario Bros. in 1985, these games have consistently pushed the boundaries of game design, introducing innovative mechanics, memorable characters, and challenging levels. These are the games that most people immediately think of when the Mario franchise is mentioned.
Key Mainline Titles
- Super Mario Bros. (1985)
- Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels (1986)
- Super Mario Bros. 3 (1988)
- Super Mario World (1990)
- Super Mario 64 (1996)
- Super Mario Sunshine (2002)
- New Super Mario Bros. (2006)
- Super Mario Galaxy (2007)
- New Super Mario Bros. Wii (2009)
- Super Mario Galaxy 2 (2010)
- Super Mario 3D Land (2011)
- New Super Mario Bros. U (2012)
- Super Mario 3D World (2013)
- Super Mario Odyssey (2017)
- Super Mario Bros. Wonder (2023)
The Spin-Off Kingdoms: Beyond Platforming
The Mario franchise extends far beyond the traditional platforming genre. These spin-offs offer a diverse range of gameplay experiences while retaining the charm and familiar characters of the Mushroom Kingdom. The success of these series underlines the strength of the Mario universe and its ability to adapt to different genres. These are the games that provide nearly endless entertainment for fans of all ages.
Notable Spin-Off Series
- Mario Kart: A go-kart racing series featuring Mario characters and power-ups. This is one of the most popular racing game franchises of all time.
- Mario Party: A party game series with mini-games and board game elements. Perfect for playing with friends and family.
- Mario Golf: A golf simulation series featuring Mario characters and courses. Offers a unique blend of golf and arcade gameplay.
- Mario Tennis: A tennis simulation series featuring Mario characters and courts. Fast-paced and accessible gameplay.
- Mario & Luigi: A role-playing game series that blends adventure and turn-based combat. Known for its humor and charming character interactions.
- Paper Mario: Another role-playing game series known for its unique papercraft art style and engaging story.
- Mario vs. Donkey Kong: A puzzle-platformer series that pits Mario against his longtime rival, Donkey Kong.
- Dr. Mario: A puzzle game series where players match colored pills to eliminate viruses. Simple but addictive gameplay.
- Luigi’s Mansion: A spooky adventure series starring Luigi, who has to overcome his fears to explore haunted mansions.
The 2023 Mario Boom: A Year of New Adventures
2023 was a monumental year for Mario fans. With the blockbuster success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie and the release of Super Mario Bros. Wonder, the franchise reached new heights of popularity. The year provided a shot in the arm to the whole of the Mario universe.
Key 2023 Releases and Events
- The Super Mario Bros. Movie: A massive critical and commercial success, introducing a new generation to the world of Mario.
- Super Mario Bros. Wonder: The first new 2D mainline Mario game in over a decade, featuring innovative gameplay mechanics and a vibrant art style.
- Pikmin 4: While not strictly a Mario game, this Nintendo title further demonstrates the company’s commitment to innovative and engaging gameplay on the Nintendo Switch.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Mario
The Mario franchise shows no signs of slowing down. With new games, movies, and theme park attractions on the horizon, the future of the Mushroom Kingdom looks bright. The success of recent releases proves that Mario is still relevant and beloved by players of all ages.
Rumored and Anticipated Future Releases
- A potential new 3D Super Mario game rumored to be in development for the Nintendo Switch successor.
- Speculation surrounding a possible Luigi’s Mansion 4, given the success of the previous installments.
- The continued expansion of Super Nintendo World theme parks worldwide.
- Super Mario Bros. Movie 2 – the huge success of the first movie makes a sequel highly likely.
FAQs: Your Burning Mario Questions Answered
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Mario franchise, providing further insights into its vast and ever-evolving world.
1. What was the first Mario game ever made?
The first game to feature Mario was Donkey Kong (1981), where he was originally known as Jumpman.
2. What is Mario’s full name?
Mario’s full name is Mario Mario. This was officially confirmed by Shigeru Miyamoto in 2015.
3. How many Mario Kart games are there?
There are currently 16 Mario Kart games, including console, handheld, and arcade versions.
4. What is the hardest Mario game ever?
Many fans consider Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels to be the most challenging Mario game due to its unforgiving level design and hidden traps.
5. What is the newest Mario game?
The newest game is Super Mario Bros. Wonder, which launched on October 20, 2023.
6. How many Mario Party games are there?
There are currently 20 Mario Party games, including the main series and spin-offs.
7. Will there be a new Luigi’s Mansion game?
Given the success of the Luigi’s Mansion series, it is highly likely that a Luigi’s Mansion 4 will be released in the future.
8. What is the best-selling Mario game of all time?
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the best-selling Mario game of all time, selling over 60 million copies worldwide.
9. How old are Mario and Luigi?
While their exact ages are never explicitly stated, Mario and Luigi are generally considered to be in their mid-20s to early 30s.
10. What is the difference between Super Mario Bros. and New Super Mario Bros.?
Super Mario Bros. is the original side-scrolling platformer series, while New Super Mario Bros. is a revival of the 2D style with updated graphics and gameplay mechanics.
11. Is Super Mario Bros. Wonder a good game?
Super Mario Bros. Wonder has received widespread critical acclaim for its innovative gameplay, vibrant art style, and overall fun factor.
12. What is the future of the Mario & Luigi RPG series?
The Mario & Luigi RPG series is currently on hiatus due to the bankruptcy of its developer, AlphaDream. However, there is hope that Nintendo may revive the series in the future.
13. How has Mario impacted the video game industry?
Mario is one of the most influential video game characters of all time, credited with popularizing the platforming genre and shaping the modern gaming landscape. His games are also used as a tool for helping kids improve motor skills, analytical capabilities, and critical thinking. To learn more about the educational value of gaming, visit Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.
14. Is Mario still relevant in 2023?
Absolutely! The success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie and Super Mario Bros. Wonder proves that Mario is more popular than ever.
15. How many sports games featuring Mario are there?
The sports sub-series of Mario has well over 20 games, including the Mario Golf, Mario Tennis, Mario Strikers, and Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games franchises.
The Enduring Legacy of Mario
The Mario franchise is more than just a collection of games; it’s a cultural phenomenon. From its humble beginnings in arcades to its current status as a global entertainment powerhouse, Mario has consistently captivated players with its innovative gameplay, charming characters, and timeless appeal. As the franchise continues to evolve and expand, one thing remains certain: the world of Mario will continue to bring joy and excitement to gamers for generations to come.