5 Worst Mario Games, Ranked

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In terms of quality, it’s tough for many to surpass the Super Mario franchise, with Nintendo consistently pouring substantial effort into each game in the series to ensure a top-notch gaming experience that sets high standards for its respective platform. However, not every Mario game shines equally – during the character’s 40+ year journey, there have been instances where the games didn’t quite capture what makes the franchise unique. Fortunately, these disappointments have been rare, but it’s important to be aware of them so you can steer clear of less-than-exceptional titles.

5. New Super Mario Bros. U

It’s surprising to note that during a particular span, from 1996 to 2006, there were no new, original 2D Mario games released by Nintendo, except for remakes on Game Boy Advance. The release of “New Super Mario Bros.” in 2006 marked the end of this long gap and enjoyed considerable popularity. However, it seems that the success of the game led to Nintendo revisiting and expanding upon the series more frequently than before, which some might consider milking the series.

Over a period of six years, Nintendo produced four 2D Mario games, peaking with New Super Mario Bros. U, which was initially launched for the Wii U. Although the game was technically solid and still entertaining, it demonstrated that too much of a good thing can be overwhelming. The shortcomings of the game became even more apparent after the release of the exceptional Super Mario Bros. Wonder in 2023. One of the main criticisms against New Super Mario Bros. U is its lack of unique identity, a flaw it shares with our selection for the worst game on this list.

4. Super Mario Land

1989 marked the debut of Nintendo’s original Game Boy with the iconic character, Mario, leading the charge. The initial endeavor, titled Super Mario Land, aimed to recreate the success of the NES games, but fell short in several aspects. Instead of the traditional confrontation between Mario and Bowser, this game introduced a peculiar adversary named Tatanga. It also incorporated shooting stages alongside the standard platforming, adding an unusual twist. The presentation was particularly weak compared to other Mario games, as Nintendo was still figuring out how to maximize the potential of the Game Boy hardware at that time.

The game Super Mario Land, while unique in its own way, can be considered somewhat of a miss when measured against its significantly better successor. If you’re seeking an authentic Mario adventure on the original Game Boy, I would recommend opting for Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins instead.

3. Mario Bros. (1983)

Prior to becoming a global sensation on the original Nintendo Entertainment System, Mario had already gained popularity in the arcade world. In 1981’s “Donkey Kong”, he first appeared, and later turned into the antagonist in “Donkey Kong Jr.” in 1982. His standalone game, “Mario Bros” for the arcade, was launched in 1983. The gameplay involved Mario and Luigi, who had to hit platforms beneath enemies to flip them over, then kick them away before they regained their balance.

Similar to several other games on the list, Mario Bros. is primarily entertaining, yet it loses its charm rather swiftly. Unfortunately, this isn’t improved by Nintendo’s decision to include it frequently across their Game Boy Advance Mario games, which led many fans and critics to grow tired of it rapidly. While it deserves credit for introducing key components of the franchise, particularly pipes as a means of transportation, there isn’t much else that stands out.

2. Mario Is Missing!

It’s incredibly disappointing when you expect one thing – in this case, a fun new Mario game – but end up with something completely different. The game “Mario Is Missing!”, released in 1993, appeared to be an exciting opportunity for Luigi to step into the limelight independently from his brother. Unfortunately, it turned out to be educational software disguised as a Mario game.

In this scenario, participants were given challenges that led them on a global adventure to find a missing character, with gameplay style reminiscent of the Carmen Sandiego series. However, fans eagerly anticipating the debut of Mario’s younger brother would have to endure another eight years before the launch of Luigi’s Mansion in 2001.

1. Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels

In 1985, the groundbreaking game Super Mario Bros. became an enormous hit. It was only natural that Nintendo capitalized on its success by creating a sequel, which was released as Super Mario Bros. 2 in 1986. While visually similar to the original, this version introduced a greater challenge with new features like Poison Mushrooms. However, Nintendo of America was concerned that these enhanced difficulties might deter fans outside of Japan from enjoying the game, and thus decided not to release it internationally. Instead, they transformed another game called Yume Kojo: Doki Doki Panic! into a Mario-themed version for the American market.

Making the decision to develop Super Mario Bros. 2, later known as Super Mario Bros. USA in Japan, turned out to be a shrewd move by Nintendo. This particular version significantly influenced the Mario series over the subsequent decades, leaving an indelible mark on it. Not only was it more engaging, but it also introduced pivotal elements and characters like Bob-ombs, Birdo, and Shy Guys to the franchise. The initial release of Super Mario Bros. 2 in the U.S. was as Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels, which was initially distributed through Super Mario All-Stars on the Super Nintendo. Although the inclusion of this game in the compilation was a notable selling point, its challenging nature and lack of innovation make it less enjoyable for many players. While not everyone is a fan of this version of Super Mario Bros. 2, there’s no denying that it has carved out its own distinct identity. Conversely, the worst Mario game ever made can’t really claim to have established a unique identity of its own.

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2025-08-27 02:32