Top Mario Games For Kids: A Parent's Guide

Hey guys! If you're looking for the perfect Mario game to play with your kids, you've come to the right place. The world of Mario is vast and wonderful, but with so many titles available, it can be a little overwhelming to choose the best one for family fun. Don't worry, we're here to break down some of the top contenders, ensuring everyone from the youngest player to the seasoned gamer has a blast. We'll explore games that are easy to pick up, offer cooperative gameplay, and are generally kid-friendly in terms of content. After all, gaming with your kids should be a joyful experience, creating lasting memories and strengthening those family bonds. So, let's jump into the Mushroom Kingdom and find the perfect adventure for your crew!

Why Mario Games are Great for Kids

Before we dive into specific titles, let's talk about why Mario games are such a fantastic choice for kids in the first place. The Mario franchise has been a staple in gaming for decades, known for its colorful worlds, charming characters, and engaging gameplay. But it's more than just nostalgia; these games offer several benefits for young players. First and foremost, Mario games are generally kid-friendly, with minimal violence and a focus on lighthearted fun. The stories are simple yet captivating, often involving rescuing Princess Peach from the clutches of the evil Bowser. This classic narrative provides a clear goal for kids to strive for, making the gameplay both purposeful and exciting. Beyond the storyline, the gameplay mechanics are incredibly accessible. Most Mario games feature intuitive controls that are easy for even young children to grasp. Jumping, running, and basic attacks are the core actions, making it simple for newcomers to jump right in and start playing. However, beneath the surface simplicity lies a depth of gameplay that can challenge even experienced players. This balance is key to Mario's enduring appeal, ensuring that kids can grow with the games and continue to find new challenges as their skills develop.

Another significant advantage of Mario games is their focus on cooperative gameplay. Many titles offer multiplayer modes where players can team up and work together to overcome obstacles. This is a fantastic way for kids to learn teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. Playing cooperatively also allows parents and children to bond over a shared activity, creating lasting memories and strengthening family relationships. The sense of accomplishment that comes from completing a level or defeating a boss together is incredibly rewarding, fostering a positive gaming experience for everyone involved. Furthermore, Mario games often encourage creativity and exploration. The worlds are filled with hidden secrets, collectibles, and challenging platforming sections that reward curiosity and experimentation. Kids can spend hours exploring every nook and cranny, discovering new items and abilities that enhance the gameplay experience. This sense of discovery is incredibly engaging, keeping kids entertained and coming back for more.

Top Mario Games for Cooperative Fun

Now, let's get to the heart of the matter: which Mario games are the best for playing with kids? We'll focus on titles that offer excellent cooperative gameplay, are accessible to younger players, and provide a fun and engaging experience for the whole family. Here are some of our top picks:

1. New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe

New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is an absolute must-have for families. This game is a remastered version of the Wii U classic, featuring both the original New Super Mario Bros. U game and the challenging New Super Luigi U expansion. The core gameplay is classic side-scrolling Mario, with players running, jumping, and stomping their way through vibrant levels filled with enemies, obstacles, and secrets. What makes this game particularly great for kids is its accessibility and multiplayer options. Up to four players can play simultaneously, making it perfect for family game nights. The game also introduces Nabbit, an invincible character who can't be harmed by enemies, making it an excellent option for younger or less experienced players. Nabbit can still collect items and help the team, ensuring everyone feels involved and contributing. The level design in New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is fantastic, offering a mix of easy and challenging stages that cater to a wide range of skill levels. The game is also packed with hidden areas and collectibles, encouraging exploration and replayability. The colorful graphics and cheerful music add to the overall fun atmosphere, making it a delightful experience for players of all ages. Whether you're a seasoned Mario veteran or a newcomer to the franchise, this game is guaranteed to provide hours of entertainment.

2. Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury is another fantastic choice for family fun. This game combines the original Super Mario 3D World from the Wii U with a brand-new adventure called Bowser's Fury. Super Mario 3D World is a 3D platformer that allows up to four players to team up and tackle colorful levels together. The gameplay is incredibly varied, with each level introducing new mechanics, power-ups, and challenges. Players can choose from Mario, Luigi, Peach, and Toad, each with their unique abilities. For example, Peach can float in the air for a short time, while Luigi can jump higher than the others. This variety encourages players to experiment and find the characters that best suit their playstyle. The cooperative gameplay in Super Mario 3D World is top-notch, with players able to help each other reach high places, revive fallen teammates, and work together to solve puzzles. The game also features a charming storyline and memorable boss battles, adding to the overall excitement. Bowser's Fury, the new addition to the game, is a more open-world adventure that sees Mario teaming up with Bowser Jr. to stop a giant, enraged Bowser. This mode offers a different kind of challenge, with a dynamic world that changes as Bowser's fury intensifies. The combination of the classic Super Mario 3D World gameplay with the fresh Bowser's Fury adventure makes this game a must-have for any family looking for a fun and engaging gaming experience.

3. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

No list of family-friendly Mario games would be complete without mentioning Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. This game is a kart racing masterpiece, offering accessible gameplay, a wide variety of characters and tracks, and plenty of opportunities for friendly competition. Up to four players can race together in local multiplayer, making it perfect for game nights or weekend gatherings. The controls are easy to learn, but mastering the game takes skill and practice. Players can drift around corners, use items to sabotage their opponents, and perform stunts to gain a speed boost. The tracks are beautifully designed, featuring iconic locations from the Mario universe and plenty of creative twists and turns. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe also includes a robust online multiplayer mode, allowing players to compete against friends and rivals from around the world. The game is constantly updated with new content, including characters, karts, and tracks, ensuring there's always something new to discover. Whether you're a seasoned racing fan or a newcomer to the genre, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is guaranteed to provide hours of fun and excitement for the whole family. The vibrant graphics, cheerful music, and addictive gameplay make it a true classic that stands the test of time.

4. Super Mario Maker 2

For families who love creativity and customization, Super Mario Maker 2 is an absolute game-changer. This game allows players to design their own Mario levels, using a vast array of tools and items to create everything from simple challenges to elaborate obstacle courses. The level editor is incredibly intuitive, making it easy for kids and adults alike to bring their ideas to life. Players can choose from various themes, including classic Super Mario Bros., Super Mario Bros. 3, Super Mario World, and New Super Mario Bros. U, each with its unique visual style and gameplay mechanics. They can also add enemies, power-ups, platforms, and other elements to create levels that are both fun and challenging. Once a level is created, it can be uploaded online for other players to try. This creates a vast library of user-generated content, ensuring there's always something new and exciting to play. Super Mario Maker 2 also includes a story mode, which features over 100 pre-made levels designed by Nintendo. This mode is a great way to learn the basics of level design and get inspired to create your own masterpieces. The cooperative gameplay in Super Mario Maker 2 comes in the form of course creation, where players can work together to design levels. This is a fantastic way for families to bond and collaborate, sharing their ideas and creativity. The game also supports local multiplayer, allowing up to four players to tackle courses together. With its endless possibilities and creative potential, Super Mario Maker 2 is a must-have for any family that loves Mario and gaming.

Tips for Playing Mario Games with Kids

So, you've chosen your game, and you're ready to dive into the world of Mario with your kids. Here are a few tips to ensure everyone has a great time:

• Start with the Basics: If your kids are new to gaming, start with simpler titles or modes. Games like New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe with Nabbit or the easier levels in Super Mario 3D World are great starting points.
• Embrace Cooperative Play: Focus on games that allow for cooperative gameplay. Working together as a team is more fun and helps kids learn valuable social skills.
• Take Breaks: Gaming can be intense, especially for younger players. Take regular breaks to avoid fatigue and keep the experience enjoyable.
• Celebrate Successes: Acknowledge and celebrate your kids' accomplishments, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement encourages them to keep learning and improving.
• Have Fun! The most important thing is to have fun and create lasting memories with your family. Don't worry about winning or losing; just enjoy the experience.

Creating Lasting Memories in the Mushroom Kingdom

Playing Mario games with your kids is more than just a fun activity; it's an opportunity to bond, create memories, and foster a love for gaming. The Mario franchise has something for everyone, from classic side-scrolling adventures to creative level design tools. By choosing the right games and following a few simple tips, you can ensure that your family gaming experiences are positive, engaging, and memorable. So, grab your controllers, jump into the Mushroom Kingdom, and get ready for some family fun! Whether you're rescuing Princess Peach, racing on colorful tracks, or building your own levels, the world of Mario is waiting to be explored. Happy gaming, guys! 🍄⭐