Ever wondered which Mario games graced Nintendo’s innovative 3DS platform? As the vibrant ‘Woohoos!’ and ‘Ha!’ from the video above playfully remind us, the spirit of Mario is inextricably linked with joy and adventure. But beyond the iconic sound effects, what digital treasures did the plumber himself bring to the dual-screen, stereoscopic 3D handheld? The Nintendo 3DS was more than just a successor to the DS; it was a testament to Nintendo’s vision for portable gaming, and naturally, Mario, the company’s flagship hero, was at the forefront of its software library, offering a diverse array of experiences that truly pushed the limits of handheld play.
The console’s lifecycle saw a robust collection of Mario games on 3DS, ranging from groundbreaking mainline platformers to innovative RPGs, kart racers, and a plethora of spin-off titles. Each game, in its own right, added another jewel to the crown of this beloved handheld, demonstrating the versatility and enduring appeal of the Super Mario franchise.
The Mainline Marvels: Elevating 3D Platforming on the Go
When the Nintendo 3DS launched, gamers eagerly awaited a true 3D Mario adventure that could rival the home console experiences. And Nintendo delivered. Super Mario 3D Land, released in 2011, became an instant classic, often cited as one of the console’s defining titles. Much like a master chef perfectly blending familiar ingredients with a fresh twist, this game ingeniously fused the 2D side-scrolling mechanics of classic Mario with the expansive exploration of 3D entries like Super Mario 64 and Super Mario Galaxy.
The game brilliantly utilized the 3DS’s autostereoscopic 3D display, offering an unprecedented sense of depth that made judging jumps and navigating intricate levels genuinely more intuitive and engaging. Rather than being a mere gimmick, the 3D effect became an integral part of the gameplay, a feat few other 3DS titles achieved with such finesse. On the other hand, the later New Super Mario Bros. 2 leaned into the series’ 2D roots, yet introduced a unique gold coin obsession, challenging players to collect one million coins. This entry, while perhaps less revolutionary than 3D Land, still provided that classic side-scrolling Mario magic that fans adore, a comforting familiarity akin to returning to a favorite childhood haunt.
Kart Racing, RPGs, and More: Spin-Offs That Defined a Generation
Beyond the core platformers, the Nintendo 3DS became a thriving ecosystem for Mario’s extensive cast and diverse gaming genres. Think of it as a grand, bustling plaza where every corner offers a different kind of entertainment, all hosted by the same charismatic plumber. Mario Kart 7, for instance, wasn’t just another entry in the long-running racing series; it introduced gliders and underwater sections, fundamentally altering track design and offering exhilarating new ways to compete. The online multiplayer aspect brought players together globally, turning quiet commutes into heated races.
The RPG front was equally strong, showcasing Mario’s capacity for deep storytelling and strategic combat. The Mario & Luigi series, with titles like Dream Team and Paper Jam, offered whimsical narratives and engaging turn-based battles, often blending humor with heartfelt moments. Then there was Paper Mario: Sticker Star, which, while dividing fan opinion with its sticker-based combat system, still brought the charming papercraft aesthetic and unique humor that define the sub-series. These titles demonstrate how the Mario universe can seamlessly transition between high-octane action and thoughtful role-playing, much like a seasoned actor excelling in both comedy and drama.
A Multitude of Mario Experiences
But the list of Mario games on 3DS stretches far beyond these highlights. The console truly became a hub for every facet of the Mario universe. Consider these additional gems:
- Sports Titles: Mario Golf: World Tour and Mario Tennis Open brought the competitive spirit to the greens and courts, offering accessible yet deep gameplay.
- Puzzle Games: Dr. Mario Express (via DSiWare on 3DS) continued the classic puzzle action, proving that Mario could even conquer the medical field.
- Party Games: The Mario Party series saw multiple iterations, including Mario Party: Island Tour and Mario Party: Star Rush, bringing chaotic fun to group settings.
- Crossover Adventures: The Mario & Sonic series continued its Olympic run with titles like Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games and Mario & Sonic at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, combining two iconic franchises in a celebration of sport.
- Other Notable Mentions: Luigi’s Mansion: Dark Moon (starring Mario’s often-eclipsed brother), Mario & Donkey Kong: Minis on the Move, and even cameo appearances in games like Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS further solidified Mario’s pervasive presence.
The Virtual Console: A Portal to Mario’s Past
One of the often-understated aspects of the 3DS’s appeal was its Virtual Console, a digital storefront that allowed players to download and experience classic titles from previous Nintendo systems. For fans looking to delve into the history of Mario games on 3DS, this was a goldmine. It was like having a curated museum of gaming history in your pocket, accessible at any time.
Through the eShop, 3DS owners could revisit foundational titles such as the original Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros. 2, and Super Mario Bros. 3 from the NES. The Super Nintendo’s legendary Super Mario World and Super Mario Kart were also available, allowing a new generation (and nostalgic veterans) to experience these masterpieces. Even Game Boy classics like Super Mario Land and Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins found a new home, showcasing Mario’s handheld origins. These digital re-releases were more than just ports; they were an acknowledgment of Mario’s enduring legacy and an opportunity for players to connect with the roots of the franchise on modern hardware.
The 3DS Legacy: A Fitting Home for Mario
The Nintendo 3DS family of systems (including the 2DS and New 3DS models) provided a unique platform for the Super Mario franchise to flourish. Its innovative 3D screen, robust online capabilities, and the dual-screen setup offered developers new avenues for creativity. Much like a skilled architect designs a building to perfectly suit its environment, Nintendo crafted Mario experiences that felt tailor-made for the 3DS hardware. This synergy resulted in a library of Mario games on 3DS that is both diverse and deeply engaging.
Whether you were soaring through the skies of Super Mario 3D Land, strategizing in an RPG, or racing against friends across the globe, the 3DS always delivered that quintessential Nintendo magic. The sheer volume and quality of Mario games on 3DS solidify its status as one of the most important platforms in the franchise’s storied history, offering countless hours of fun and solidifying Mario’s reign as the undisputed king of platforming and beyond.
