The Super Mario franchise is widely recognized for its platforming adventures featuring beloved characters like Luigi, Princess Peach, Yoshi, Toad, and Donkey Kong. However, there are several standout games that do not include Mario himself, yet offer captivating gameplay and nostalgia. These games exhibit the same charm and creativity that fans have come to expect, showcasing why non-Mario titles deserve their time in the spotlight.
In celebration of these unique gaming experiences, we explore some of the finest Mario games that don’t feature Mario in the lead role, yet provide equally enjoyable gameplay. From engaging narratives to innovative mechanics, these titles prove that the world of Mario extends far beyond the iconic plumber himself.
10 Yoshi’s Story
Pop-up Platforming
Nintendo has consistently pushed the boundaries with their Mario-themed games, and Yoshi’s Story stands as a prime example of this experimentation. Unlike traditional Super Mario titles, this game opts for a more accessible and straightforward gameplay, reminiscent of a children’s pop-up book.
With its adorable aesthetic and charming style, Yoshi’s Story serves as a gentle introduction to Nintendo gaming, offering an easy-going experience perfect for casual play, albeit lacking in depth.
9 Princess Peach: Showtime!
Lights, Camera, Action
Princess Peach: Showtime! marks a noteworthy entry for the character, building on her previous role in Super Princess Peach for the Nintendo DS. This game successfully showcases Peach as a formidable protagonist, enriched by a compelling narrative and well-crafted gameplay.
While it may not provide the challenging experience found in other Mario universe titles, this game is packed with delightful content, making it a worthwhile adventure for any player.
8 Wario Land: Super Mario Land 3
Wario Time!
Following his initial introduction in Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins, Wario’s character was expanded in Wario Land: Super Mario Land 3 for the original Game Boy. This title combines the lessons learned from its predecessors with fresh and inventive gameplay, presenting players with a faster-paced and more action-oriented experience.
Wario’s unique style and abilities inspire a sense of nostalgia while paving the way for innovative game design that continues to influence the genre today.
7 Donkey Kong 64
Walnuts, Peanuts, Pineapple Smells
Donkey Kong 64 is often regarded as a massive undertaking in the gaming world, featuring expansive levels and a staggering number of collectibles. Despite some criticism regarding its size and pacing, the game maintains rich gameplay without feeling overwhelming.
The absence of certain quality-of-life features, such as seamless character switching, does require some backtracking, but overall, Donkey Kong 64 is a significant achievement in platforming, offering countless hours of delightful challenges.
6 Luigi’s Mansion 3
Boo!
The latest installment in the Luigi’s Mansion series, Luigi’s Mansion 3, refines and enhances elements from previous titles while advancing the series into new territory. Though it may feature a more linear structure, the game keeps the experience lively and engaging.
The meticulous attention to detail, combined with impressive graphics, ensures that this title stands out as one of the most polished entries on the Nintendo Switch, providing an enjoyable journey throughout.
5 New Super Luigi U
The Year of Luigi
With 2013 proclaimed as “The Year of Luigi,”New Super Luigi U emerged as a centerpiece in Nintendo’s marketing efforts. Expanding on the familiar gameplay of New Super Mario Bros. U, this title offers a unique spin and highlights Luigi’s distinctive abilities, particularly his higher jumps.
This game brings a fresh experience that stands out among its predecessors, ultimately delivering an enjoyable platforming adventure.
4 Yoshi’s Woolly World
Well-Crafted
Yoshi’s Woolly World strikes an admirable balance between style and substance, enhancing upon the artistic charm of Yoshi’s Story with substantive gameplay. This title presents one of the most accessible platforming experiences available while offering a variety of challenges for those seeking them.
The game’s creative utilization of a yarn aesthetic combined with intelligent gameplay design captures players’ imaginations and drives engagement beyond its appealing visuals.
3 Donkey Kong Country
Kong!
The iconic Donkey Kong Country changed the landscape of platformers with its groundbreaking 3D graphics, catchy soundtrack, and varied gameplay. It proved that the platforming genre could thrive outside the shadow of Mario.
Featuring a rich diversity of levels, captivating environmental design, and responsive controls, this title has set the standard for Super Nintendo platformers, offering players an enriching experience that feels satisfying upon completion.
2 Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze
Cold as Ice
Prior to the launch of Super Mario Odyssey, Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze was often viewed as a leading platformer, maintaining the success of its predecessors while introducing an impressive modern gaming experience.
This title smartly avoids the repetitiveness of other Mario games and seamlessly combines proficient platforming challenges with fresh experiences, pushing the genre forward and catering to both new and returning players.
1 Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
Puzzle Platforming Perfection
Originating as a mini-game in Super Mario 3D World, Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker evolved into a comprehensive adventure that captivates players with its enthralling puzzle platforming. The level designs are creatively structured, allowing ample exploration through the game’s diorama-style mechanics.
Every corner of Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker invites discovery and encourages creative problem-solving, guaranteeing that players will find enjoyment in every aspect of the game. If you haven’t yet experienced this title, it is undoubtedly worth revisiting.
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