Wario, the mischievous garlic enthusiast, has been a staple in the Mario franchise since 1992, when he made his debut as the main villain in Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins on the Game Boy. Over the years, Wario has evolved into a beloved antihero, branching out into various genres such as puzzlers, sports, and party games, and even spawning his own series, including Wario Land and WarioWare. With the recent release of Wario Land 4 on Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack’s GBA app, it’s the perfect time to delve into the world of Wario platformers. So, let’s explore the top 10 best Wario games of all time, as ranked by you, our dear readers.
Wario: Master of Disguise (DS)
Developed by Suzak, Wario: Master of Disguise introduces a unique gameplay mechanic centered around disguises. While the concept of transforming at will may seem appealing, the game’s reliance on touchscreen controls can lead to frustration. Despite occasional moments of brilliance, the overall execution falls short of expectations, making it a challenging experience for players.
Virtual Boy Wario Land (VB)
Virtual Boy Wario Land stands out for its fantastic visual design and engaging gameplay, making it a must-have for Virtual Boy owners. Although the game’s short length may leave players wanting more, its overall quality and replay value make it a standout title in the Wario series.
Wario World (GCN)
Wario World for the GameCube offers appealing visuals and fun boss encounters, but falls short in terms of challenge and length. While the game has its fans, its repetitive gameplay and lack of innovation compared to other GameCube platformers may not appeal to all players. For a true Wario experience, fans are encouraged to explore the character’s handheld adventures on Game Boy and DS.
Wario Land: Shake It! (Wii)
Wario Land: Shake It! presents players with a charming 2D platformer experience, featuring a delightful art style and entertaining gameplay. Although the game may not be the longest in its genre, its endearing visuals and Wario’s greedy antics make it a memorable entry in the series, evoking nostalgia for players who enjoyed it on the Wii.
Wario Land II (GB)
Wario Land II takes a departure from its predecessor by introducing significant gameplay changes that enhance the overall experience. With unique new features and engaging platforming elements, the game offers a fresh take on the Wario Land series, making it a standout title on the Game Boy Color.
Wario Land II (GBC)
The Game Boy Color version of Wario Land II maintains the spirit of the original game while introducing colorful visuals that add depth to the gameplay experience. Whether players choose the Game Boy or Game Boy Color version, they are sure to be impressed by the varied platforming challenges and engaging mechanics that define the Wario Land series.
Wario Land 3 (GBC)
Wario Land 3 refines the puzzle elements introduced in its predecessor, offering a rich and expansive gameplay experience for players seeking a unique platforming adventure. With a wide range of stages and pathways to explore, Wario Land 3 stands out as the most ambitious entry in the series, catering to both new and returning fans of the franchise.
Wario Land 4 (GBA)
Wario Land 4 sets the standard for quality platforming with its nonlinear level design and engaging gameplay mechanics that encourage multiple playthroughs. As a platformer designed for veteran players, Wario Land 4 delivers impeccable level design and a quirky presentation that cements its status as a must-play title for fans of the genre.
Wario Land: Super Mario Land 3 (GB)
Wario Land: Super Mario Land 3 marks a significant departure from traditional Mario platformers, offering a fresh and innovative take on the portable platforming genre. With a wealth of new gameplay features, unique visuals, and memorable music, the game showcases Wario’s evolution as a character and solidifies his place in the Nintendo universe as a beloved antihero.
After exploring the top 10 best Wario games of all time, it’s clear that Wario’s legacy extends far beyond his initial role as Mario’s antagonist. From his early days on the Game Boy to his latest adventures on Nintendo Switch, Wario has carved out a unique niche in the world of platform gaming. Whether you’re a seasoned Wario fan or a newcomer to the series, there’s a Wario game out there waiting to be discovered and enjoyed. So, grab your garlic and get ready for a wild ride through the whimsical world of Wario!
