Mario On Nintendo Switch: Top Games In 2022
Hey guys! Let's dive into the wonderful world of Mario on the Nintendo Switch in 2022! We're talking about everyone's favorite plumber hitting the portable screen, bringing joy, adventure, and a whole lot of 'yahoo!' moments. This year has been incredible for Mario fans, with both classic titles and fresh adventures making their mark on the Switch. So, grab your Joy-Cons, and let's-a go explore what made Mario's 2022 so super!
Why Mario on the Switch is a Match Made in Heaven
The Nintendo Switch and Mario are like peanut butter and jelly – they just belong together. The Switch's hybrid nature means you can play Mario on your TV or take him on the go, whether you're on a long road trip, waiting at the doctor's office, or just chilling in your backyard. This versatility perfectly complements Mario games, which are known for their pick-up-and-play appeal. The colorful graphics pop on the Switch's screen, and the intuitive controls make it easy for players of all ages to jump into the action.
Beyond the portability, the Switch has breathed new life into the Mario franchise. We've seen stunning HD remasters of classic games, innovative new titles that push the boundaries of the series, and seamless online multiplayer experiences that let you team up with friends (or compete against them) in the Mushroom Kingdom. Mario's presence on the Switch is a testament to Nintendo's commitment to delivering fun, accessible, and high-quality gaming experiences.
In 2022, we continued to see this trend, with Nintendo supporting the Switch with a steady stream of Mario content. From major releases to smaller updates and events, there was always something new to discover in the world of Mario on the Switch. This consistent support ensures that Mario remains a central figure in the Switch's library, attracting both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
Top Mario Games on Nintendo Switch in 2022
Alright, let's get to the good stuff – the games! 2022 was a fantastic year for Mario games on the Nintendo Switch, with a mix of new releases, updated classics, and evergreen titles that continued to shine. Here's a rundown of some of the top Mario games that you should definitely check out:
1. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Okay, this one isn't exactly a 2022 release, but Mario Kart 8 Deluxe remained a powerhouse throughout the year, thanks to the Booster Course Pass. This DLC added a whopping 48 new tracks to the game, doubling the original content and providing endless hours of racing fun. Whether you're drifting through Coconut Mall, dodging Thwomps on Mount Wario, or battling it out in Balloon Battle, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a must-have for any Switch owner.
The beauty of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe lies in its accessibility and depth. Anyone can pick up a controller and start racing, but mastering the drifting, item usage, and track layouts takes skill and practice. The game also supports a variety of control options, from the Joy-Cons to the Pro Controller, allowing you to find the setup that works best for you. Plus, with online multiplayer, you can race against friends and rivals from around the world.
In 2022, the Booster Course Pass kept Mario Kart 8 Deluxe fresh and exciting, attracting both veteran players and newcomers. The new tracks were lovingly crafted, featuring vibrant visuals, creative layouts, and plenty of nods to classic Mario Kart games. Nintendo's commitment to supporting the game with regular updates ensured that it remained a top-selling title throughout the year.
2. Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury
This gem brought the Wii U classic to the Switch with a fresh coat of paint and a brand-new adventure. Super Mario 3D World is a delightful co-op platformer that lets you team up with up to three friends to tackle colorful levels, collect stamps, and rescue Sprixie Princesses. The game's whimsical power-ups, such as the Super Bell and Double Cherry, add a unique twist to the classic Mario formula.
But the real star of this package is Bowser's Fury, a standalone adventure that takes Mario to a sprawling open world dominated by a gigantic, enraged Bowser. This mode introduces a dynamic weather system, challenging platforming sections, and epic boss battles that showcase the Switch's graphical capabilities. Bowser's Fury is a fantastic addition to the Super Mario 3D World package, offering a fresh and exciting way to experience the world of Mario.
Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury was a critical and commercial success in 2022, praised for its charming visuals, inventive gameplay, and generous amount of content. The game's co-op mode is a blast to play with friends and family, while Bowser's Fury provides a challenging and rewarding single-player experience. If you missed this one on the Wii U, now's your chance to dive in!
3. Super Mario Odyssey
Another evergreen title that continued to shine in 2022, Super Mario Odyssey is a love letter to the Super Mario 64 era. This open-world adventure takes Mario on a globetrotting journey to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser's clutches. With the help of Cappy, a sentient hat that allows Mario to possess enemies and objects, you'll explore vibrant kingdoms, solve puzzles, and collect Power Moons to fuel your airship, the Odyssey.
Super Mario Odyssey is a masterclass in level design, with each kingdom offering a unique and memorable experience. Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of New Donk City, traversing the frozen peaks of the Snow Kingdom, or diving into the underwater depths of the Sea Kingdom, there's always something new to discover. The game's capture mechanic adds a layer of creativity to the gameplay, allowing you to transform into a T-Rex, a Goomba, or even a taxi cab.
In 2022, Super Mario Odyssey remained a must-have title for Switch owners, thanks to its timeless gameplay, stunning visuals, and endless replayability. The game's post-game content is also substantial, with plenty of hidden Power Moons, challenging boss battles, and secret areas to uncover. If you're looking for a Mario game that will keep you entertained for hours on end, look no further than Super Mario Odyssey.
Honorable Mentions
Of course, these aren't the only Mario games worth playing on the Switch. Here are a few honorable mentions that deserve your attention:
- Super Mario Maker 2: Unleash your creativity and build your own Mario levels, or play through thousands of user-created courses.
- Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: Compete in a variety of Olympic events with your favorite Mario and Sonic characters.
- Mario Party Superstars: A collection of classic Mario Party boards and minigames from the Nintendo 64 era.
The Future of Mario on the Nintendo Switch
So, what does the future hold for Mario on the Nintendo Switch? While Nintendo hasn't announced any new Mario games for the Switch in 2022, we can expect to see continued support for existing titles, as well as potential DLC or updates. The Switch remains a popular platform, and Nintendo will likely continue to leverage the Mario franchise to attract and retain players.
One possibility is that we'll see more classic Mario games remastered for the Switch. Nintendo has already released several HD remasters of Wii U titles, and there are plenty of other games in the Mario back catalog that could benefit from a similar treatment. Another possibility is that we'll see a brand-new Mario game that takes advantage of the Switch's unique hardware capabilities.
Whatever the future holds, one thing is certain: Mario will continue to be a major force on the Nintendo Switch. The plumber's timeless appeal, combined with the Switch's versatility and accessibility, makes for a perfect match. So, keep your eyes peeled for new Mario adventures on the Switch, and get ready to jump into the Mushroom Kingdom!
Conclusion
2022 was another fantastic year for Mario fans on the Nintendo Switch. With a mix of new releases, updated classics, and evergreen titles, there was something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, the Switch is the perfect platform to experience the magic of Mario. So, grab your Switch, pick up a Mario game, and let's-a go have some fun!