by Matthew Adams

Created on: May 22, 2009   Last Updated: July 01, 2009

Nintendo's Mario has a variety of games. From the platform game series, other Mario games like Mario Kart, Mario golf & Mario tennis also feature Mario. However, the platform games are really the best Mario games. Overall, these have appeared on a variety of Nintendo game consoles.

Super Mario Bros

The original Super Mario Bros, on the NES (Nintendo Entertainment System), was a big hit. The first Mario game introduced the basis for the platform game series and many regard it be the best video game generally. Admittedly, this game was very linear compared to more recent Mario games, but it was a 1980 game.

Super Mario three

The third game in the Mario series, on the NES, actually added a lot to Mario games. Now Mario could pick up blocks and a map element was added. In addition, Mario also went airborne. Overall, the game was another Mario hit.

Super Mario World

This was the super Mario game for the Super NES. As such, something a little more was expected from this first 16-bit Mario game. Indeed, Super Mario World added Yoshi which Mario could ride. Further to this, 96- levels could be played in a more variable order with multiple routes. Mario could also back-track through levels. So certainly, Super Mario World was a great game.

Mario 64

When the N64 was released, Mario 64 was it's Mario game. This Mario game added a new dimension to the Mario series, and was a first true 3d Mario game. In the game, Mario needed to collect stars to progress. While Yoshi did not feature in the game, Mario had some new tricks as well. It was an ideal Mario game, with fine new enhancements.

Further Mario games have been more like Mario 64 with the 3d element. However, some Mario games have appeared which have returned to more traditional 2d.

Overall, these four Mario game titles are perhaps the best Mario games overall. While most Mario games are good, these have provided a little more than usual. Some Mario games like the Lost Worlds, were actually very similar to the original Super Mario Bros. The second American Mario game actually lacked a number of Mario game traditions.

To choose a best Mario game may not be so easy. Super Mario Bros was the first, but considering the game itself is it better than all its sequels? Mario 64 actually took the Mario games to a new level, and some claim that is the best Mario game. As a preference, Super Mario World is a favourite.

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