Super Mario is one of the most recognisable franchises in the world.
From classic 8-bit games to modern open-world adventures, Mario has been at the centre of gaming for over four decades.
But with so many games, spin-offs, and adaptations, it can be hard to know where to start.
This guide breaks down the Super Mario franchise in a simple, clear way — covering the main games, spin-offs, movies, and more.
What Is Super Mario?
Super Mario is a video game franchise created by Nintendo, centred around Mario — a plumber who travels across imaginative worlds to rescue Princess Peach and stop Bowser.
Since his debut in the early 1980s, Mario has appeared in:
- platform games
- racing games
- sports titles
- party games
- movies and TV shows
It’s not just a series — it’s one of the foundations of modern gaming.
The Origins of Mario (Arcade Era)
Before Super Mario became a global phenomenon, it started in arcades.
Key early games include:
- Donkey Kong (1981) – Mario’s first appearance
- Donkey Kong Jr. (1982)
- Mario Bros. (1983)
These games established Mario as a character and introduced the basic gameplay ideas that would later define the series.
👉 Read more: Donkey Kong (1981), Mario Bros (1983)
The Mainline Super Mario Games (Core Series)
The core Mario games are platformers where players guide Mario through levels filled with enemies, power-ups, and hidden secrets.
Classic Era
- Super Mario Bros (1985)
- Super Mario Bros 2
- Super Mario Bros 3
These games defined side-scrolling platformers and helped revive the video game industry.
16-Bit and Early 3D
- Super Mario World
- Super Mario 64
Mario 64 in particular changed gaming forever by introducing fully 3D movement and exploration.
Modern Era
- Super Mario Sunshine
- Super Mario Galaxy (1 & 2)
- Super Mario 3D World
- Super Mario Odyssey
- Super Mario Bros Wonder
These games expanded the formula with new mechanics, open environments, and creative level design.
Handheld Mario Games
Mario also thrived on portable systems:
- Super Mario Land
- Super Mario Land 2
- New Super Mario Bros (DS)
- Super Mario 3D Land
These games made Mario accessible anywhere and introduced new audiences to the franchise.
Mario Spin-Off Games
Mario isn’t limited to platforming.
Mario Kart (Racing)
One of the most successful spin-offs ever.
- Super Mario Kart
- Mario Kart 64
- Mario Kart Wii
- Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
👉 A staple of multiplayer gaming.
Mario Party (Party Games)
Board game-style experiences focused on mini-games and multiplayer chaos.
Mario Sports Games
- Mario Golf
- Mario Tennis
Simple, accessible sports games featuring familiar characters.
RPG and Story-Based Games
- Super Mario RPG
- Paper Mario
These added deeper storytelling and character development.
Super Smash Bros and Mario
Mario is also a central character in the Super Smash Bros series — Nintendo’s crossover fighting franchise.
- Super Smash Bros
- Super Smash Bros Melee
These games brought Mario together with other iconic characters and expanded his presence beyond his own series.
Mario in Movies and TV
Mario has appeared outside games as well:
Movies
- The Super Mario Bros Movie (modern animated success)
- Earlier live-action adaptation
TV Shows
- The Super Mario Bros Super Show
- Other animated adaptations
These helped introduce Mario to audiences beyond gaming.
Why Super Mario Is So Important
Mario isn’t just popular — he helped define gaming.
The series:
- shaped platformer design
- introduced millions to video games
- continues to innovate decades later
Few franchises have remained as consistent and influential.
Where to Start with Super Mario
If you’re new to Mario, start with:
- Super Mario Bros (classic experience)
- Super Mario 64 (3D introduction)
- Super Mario Odyssey (modern entry point)
These give you a clear sense of how the series has evolved.
Explore the Super Mario Franchise
From arcade beginnings to modern masterpieces, the Super Mario series continues to grow.
Use this guide as your starting point, then explore individual games, spin-offs, and stories across the franchise.
