Yoshi has always been a special part of Nintendo’s games. While starting as a character in the Mario series, Yoshi has developed its own distinct style. Yoshi games focus on being fun, easy to pick up, and imaginative, rather than overly challenging. The series is known for its unique look, from hand-drawn art to designs inspired by arts and crafts, and has always tried new things with the platforming genre. This experimentation has led to some truly memorable games, though not every attempt has been a success.
As excitement builds for the upcoming Yoshi and the Mysterious Book, many fans are revisiting the Yoshi series. The new game seems to follow Nintendo’s recent style of charming storytelling and a slower, more relaxed gameplay experience, suggesting a promising future for the character. Considering the entire history of Yoshi games helps us understand what the franchise does well and what hasn’t worked as effectively. So, we’ve ranked all the main Yoshi games, from least to most enjoyable, leaving out any smaller spin-off titles.
8) Yoshi Topsy-Turvey
At the end of the list is Yoshi Topsy-Turvy, a game remembered more for its unique idea than solid gameplay. It used the Game Boy Advance’s motion controls, requiring players to tilt the system, which was innovative for the time but often frustrating. The game made precise jumping and platforming difficult because the screen tilted, and many levels felt more annoying than enjoyable.
The game looks nice and still features the classic Yoshi gameplay, but the frequent tilting makes it hard to get into a rhythm. It often feels frustrating instead of challenging. It’s a creative idea and worth acknowledging, but overall, it’s not as good as other games in the Yoshi series.
7) Yoshi Touch & G0
Yoshi Touch & Go is a really unique game in the Yoshi series. Made for the Nintendo DS touchscreen, it doesn’t play like a typical Yoshi game. Instead of jumping and running, you use the stylus to create platforms and launch eggs, helping Baby Mario and Yoshi navigate each level.
Okay, so this game is seriously addictive in short sessions – I found myself constantly trying to beat my high score. It’s got that classic arcade feel. But honestly, it doesn’t have the same staying power as the bigger Yoshi games. That’s probably why it’s ranked where it is. Yoshi Touch & Go is definitely clever and I’ll remember it, but it feels more like a little side thing, not a proper Yoshi adventure. It only really uses part of what makes Yoshi so great, you know?
6) Yoshi’s New Island
Following up a classic like Yoshi’s Island was a tough challenge for Yoshi’s New Island. While the game played well, it didn’t quite capture the same charm as the original. It felt too similar to its predecessor, lacking its own unique style. Ultimately, it was enjoyable, but didn’t live up to what fans were hoping for.
The game’s art style received mixed reactions, with some players finding the textures unclear and the animation uneven. While the levels were well-designed, they weren’t particularly creative, and the music didn’t stand out like it did in previous games. Yoshi’s New Island isn’t a terrible game, but it’s ultimately unremarkable and ranks among the weaker titles in the series.
5) Yoshi’s Crafted World
Yoshi’s Crafted World has a delightful, handmade look, as if built from cardboard, paper, and familiar objects. It’s one of Nintendo’s most visually appealing games, with levels that feel like living dioramas packed with rewarding details to discover. The game builds on the charming style of Yoshi’s Woolly World and looks fantastic on the Nintendo Switch.
The game’s biggest weaknesses are its easy difficulty and slow pace. It’s designed to be very approachable, but even for a Yoshi game, it can feel too simple. The unique perspective-flipping idea is interesting, but it doesn’t add enough complexity to prevent the gameplay from becoming repetitive. Despite this, the game is still enjoyable and relaxing, even if it’s not particularly challenging.
4) Yoshi’s Island DS
Yoshi’s Island DS really improved the series by adding some great new ideas. The game let you play as several different babies – like Mario, Donkey Kong, and Peach – each with their own special skills. This made puzzles and levels more interesting, and encouraged players to try different approaches to find solutions.
The game improved the difficulty of its levels, offering more complex challenges while still remaining easy to pick up and play. Though it doesn’t quite reach the legendary status of the first game, Yoshi’s Island DS is a solid sequel that builds upon what made the original great. It’s a rare Yoshi title where Nintendo really upped the challenge, even if it’s not as demanding as games in other series.
3) Yoshi’s Story
As a big Yoshi fan, I always think of Yoshi’s Story as the game that really changed things up visually. It was the first time the series went 3D, even though you still played it like a classic 2D Yoshi game. The art style – it looked like a pop-up book! – is something I still remember so clearly. Plus, collecting all the different items really made you want to explore every nook and cranny. It felt like a big step forward for the series, and honestly, I think it laid the groundwork for games like Yoshi’s Woolly World and now Yoshi and the Mysterious Book.
While some players found Yoshi’s Story a bit short and easy, its delightful qualities still shine through. The game offers multiple paths and encourages repeat playthroughs with its scoring system, and its charming style continues to look great. It’s still a favorite, particularly for those who prioritize a relaxing and immersive experience over a tough challenge.
2) Yoshi’s Woolly World
Yoshi’s Woolly World is a standout title in the Yoshi series. Its beautiful yarn-based design makes the game world feel cozy and inviting, and the charming animations perfectly capture the handcrafted look. Features like the level select screen and collectible Yoshi designs added fresh elements to the series, making it one of Nintendo’s best recent cooperative games.
As a huge Yoshi fan, I have to say this game really nails it. It’s easy to pick up and play, but there’s a surprising amount of depth if you’re looking for a challenge – like finding all the hidden collectibles. The levels are so creative, and it’s even more fun playing with a friend. Honestly, a lot of us think this is the best Yoshi game we’ve seen in years – the ultimate modern experience!
1) Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island
Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island is the standout title in the series. It’s considered not just the best Yoshi game, but one of the all-time greatest platforming games. Its beautiful, hand-drawn graphics still look fantastic, and the music is instantly memorable.
The game really shines because of how its levels are designed. Each one cleverly introduces fresh gameplay elements and challenges without being too difficult. Throwing eggs as a core mechanic allows for skillful play, and the timer for Baby Mario builds excitement without being overly punishing.
This game is a classic platformer that has inspired countless others over the years, thanks to its imaginative design, refined details, and heartfelt story. It remains a high standard for new Yoshi games, and fans are hoping the upcoming Yoshi and the Mysterious Book captures the same magic that made the original so beloved.
What do you think? Leave a comment below and join the conversation now in the ComicBook Forum!
Read More
- Best Controller Settings for ARC Raiders
- Ashes of Creation Rogue Guide for Beginners
- Meet the cast of Mighty Nein: Every Critical Role character explained
- Arc Raiders Guide – All Workbenches And How To Upgrade Them
- New Avengers: Doomsday Trailer Increases Thor’s MCU Death Chances
- Avengers: Doomsday Finally Gives The X-Men What Fox Refused To
- Bloober Team launches ‘Remosd Neul Serorehso Ovam Ceyerd’ countdown website
- Entangled States and the Geometry of Quantum Speed
- Mission: Impossible Quietly Confirms It Isn’t Over After Final Reckoning
- Feature: Going Platinum #5: The Sexy Brutale
2026-01-02 02:17