Mario is undoubtedly one of the most iconic characters in gaming and pop culture. From appearing in hundreds of games across about a dozen platforms to starring in several TV shows and films, including the 2023 Super Mario Bros. Movie, our beloved Italian plumber shows no signs of slowing down, with more exciting appearances on the horizon.
However, it's the core Mario platformer games that have truly captivated players for decades. As we approach the Super Mario series' 40th anniversary in September 2025—marking the release of the first Super Mario Bros. in 1985—we celebrate Nintendo's mustache-sporting hero and his remarkable milestone. To honor this occasion, we've compiled a list of the top Super Mario platformer games of all time.
Narrowing it down was no easy task, but here is IGN's selection of the 10 best Super Mario games that have defined the series and delighted fans worldwide.
Top 10 Super Mario Games
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