Nintendo’s iconic mascot, Mario, is no stranger to branching out into various spin-off games. While Mario Kart and party games steal the spotlight, Mario and his crew have a long history of starring in sports games as well. From tennis to golf, the Mushroom Kingdom residents have tried their hand at a variety of sports, often with fantastic results.
So, what are the best Mario sports games of all time? We’ve compiled a ranked list of every Mario sports game, from the lows to the highs, taking you on a journey through the premier league of Mario sports games. From tennis to golf, from the Olympics to the Mushroom Kingdom, we’ve got it all covered.
Let’s kick things off at the bottom of the table with Mario Tennis: Ultra Smash for the Wii U. While this game has strong basic gameplay and neat visuals, the lack of content and underwhelming features make it a tough sell for even the most die-hard Mario Tennis fans. However, if you’re looking for some local multiplayer fun to mess around on different court types, it could still provide some entertainment.
Moving up the rankings, we come across Mario’s Tennis for the Virtual Boy. With a small character roster and short tournaments, this game may seem simple, but it still manages to deliver solid tennis gameplay. Plus, the excellent 3D effect of the court adds an extra layer of enjoyment, making it a worthwhile addition to any collection.
Skipping ahead to Mario Tennis Aces for the Switch, we find a game that has received high praise for its arcade sports gameplay and generous player options. The presentation is top-notch, and the core tennis action is engaging, whether you’re playing solo or with friends. While it may not be a completely new experience for fans of the series, it’s a significant improvement over previous entries.
Now, let’s talk about Mario Golf: Toadstool Tour for the GameCube, which takes the top spot on our list. Developed by Camelot, this game features iconic Mushroom Kingdom elements like warp pipes and Chain Chomps, adding a fun twist to the traditional golf experience. With a variety of courses and characters to choose from, Mario Golf: Toadstool Tour offers a delightful and engaging gameplay experience that is hard to beat.
As we wrap up our journey through the best Mario sports games, it’s clear that Nintendo’s beloved mascot has left a lasting impact on the world of sports gaming. Whether you’re a tennis enthusiast, a golf aficionado, or just looking for some fun with friends, there’s a Mario sports game out there for everyone. So, grab your controller, hit the court or the green, and get ready to experience the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat in the world of Mario sports.
