The Super Mario franchise is one of the most iconic and beloved video game series in history. Since its inception in the 1980s, Mario has become not just a character but a cultural phenomenon, captivating players of all ages around the globe. As fans eagerly discuss the number of Mario games available, it can be overwhelming to navigate the extensive library of titles spanning various platforms and genres.
This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of how many Mario games exist, categorizing them by their primary series, spin-offs, remakes, and more. By the end of this guide, you will have a clear understanding of Mario's extensive presence in the gaming world, along with insights into the evolution of this beloved franchise.
Whether you are a long-time Mario enthusiast or just beginning to explore the Mushroom Kingdom, you will find valuable information on each game, including their release dates, platforms, and unique features. Let's dive into the vibrant world of Mario and uncover how many games are part of this legendary series!
Table of Contents
- 1. Main Series Mario Games
- 2. Spin-off Games
- 3. Remakes and Remasters
- 4. Mobile Mario Games
- 5. Multiplayer Titles
- 6. Special Edition Games
- 7. Upcoming Mario Titles
- 8. Conclusion
1. Main Series Mario Games
The core of the Mario franchise consists of the main series platforming games. These titles typically follow Mario’s quest to rescue Princess Peach from the villain Bowser. Here’s a chronological list of the main series games:
- Super Mario Bros. (1985)
- Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels (1986)
- Super Mario 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. 2 (2012)
- Super Mario 3D World (2013)
- Super Mario Maker (2015)
- Super Mario Odyssey (2017)
- Super Mario 3D All-Stars (2020)
As of now, there are a total of 17 main series Mario games. This number does not include re-releases or enhanced versions but focuses solely on the primary entries that define the franchise.
2. Spin-off Games
Beyond the main series, Mario has had numerous spin-off games that explore different genres and gameplay styles. These games often feature Mario and other characters from the franchise but diverge from the traditional platforming format. Some notable spin-offs include:
- Mario Kart Series (starting from 1992)
- Mario Party Series (starting from 1998)
- Dr. Mario Series (starting from 1990)
- Mario & Luigi RPG Series (starting from 2003)
- Paper Mario Series (starting from 2000)
These spin-off titles have added significantly to the total count of Mario games, with each series hosting multiple entries. For example, the Mario Kart series alone has 8 main titles, along with various spin-offs and DLCs.
3. Remakes and Remasters
As technology has advanced, many classic Mario games have been remade or remastered for newer consoles. This includes:
- Super Mario 64 DS (2004)
- New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe (2019)
- Super Mario All-Stars (1993)
- Super Mario 3D All-Stars (2020)
These remakes breathe new life into the original games, often improving graphics, gameplay mechanics, and adding new features while maintaining the essence of the original titles.
4. Mobile Mario Games
Mario has also made his way into the mobile gaming market, appealing to a broader audience. Some notable mobile games include:
- Super Mario Run (2016)
- Mario Kart Tour (2019)
- Dr. Mario World (2019)
These games bring a unique experience to mobile devices, showcasing Mario's adaptability to different gaming platforms.
5. Multiplayer Titles
Mario has also ventured into multiplayer gaming, offering fans a chance to play with friends and family. Titles like:
- New Super Mario Bros. Wii
- Super Mario 3D World
- Mario Kart Series
These games emphasize cooperative or competitive gameplay, making Mario a social gaming experience.
6. Special Edition Games
Over the years, various special editions and collaborations have also emerged, such as:
- Super Mario Maker 2 (2019)
- Super Mario 35 (2020, limited time)
These titles often celebrate anniversaries or special events, further enriching the Mario gaming universe.
7. Upcoming Mario Titles
Nintendo continues to innovate and expand the Mario franchise. With new technology and gameplay experiences on the horizon, fans eagerly anticipate upcoming titles. While specific announcements may vary, it’s safe to say that Mario will remain a central figure in Nintendo's future plans.
8. Conclusion
In summary, the total number of Mario games is a staggering figure that encompasses the main series, spin-offs, remakes, and mobile games. While the core series consists of 17 titles, the overall count—including spin-offs and remakes—far exceeds this number, showcasing Mario's enduring legacy in the gaming world.
If you're a fan of Mario or just curious about the franchise, we encourage you to explore these games and discover the magic of the Mushroom Kingdom for yourself. Feel free to leave a comment below, share your favorite Mario games, or check out our other articles for more gaming insights!
Thank you for reading, and we hope to see you back here for more exciting content!
