Introduction to Super Mario RPGs

The Super Mario RPG franchise has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of role-playing games (RPGs) since its inception. Known for their unique blend of humor, adventure, and engaging gameplay mechanics, these titles have captivated audiences around the globe. In this article, we will explore and rank all 14 games in the Super Mario RPG series, providing insights into what makes each of them special.

14. Mario Sports Mix

Released in 2010 for the Nintendo Wii, Mario Sports Mix is primarily a collection of mini-games rather than a traditional RPG. It features characters from the Mario universe participating in various sports such as volleyball, basketball, and hockey. While it offers fun multiplayer experiences, its lack of a strong narrative or RPG elements places it at the bottom of our list.

13. Mario & Luigi: Partners in Time

This 2005 entry in the Mario & Luigi series allowed players to travel back in time and team up with their younger selves. While it introduced interesting gameplay mechanics and charming humor, some critics felt it was less memorable compared to its predecessor, making it rank lower on our list.

12. Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars

Often recognized as a cult classic, this 1996 title was the first Mario RPG developed by Square Enix. It set the stage for future RPGs in the franchise but is sometimes overshadowed by newer titles that improved upon its systems and graphics.

11. Mario & Luigi: Dream Team

This 2013 installment invited players into Luigi's dream world, blending unique puzzles with traditional RPG mechanics. While it was visually appealing and innovative, some players found it a bit confusing, which affected its overall reception.

10. Paper Mario: Sticker Star

Released in 2012, Sticker Star marked a departure from previous Paper Mario titles by introducing a sticker-based combat system. Although it offered a fresh take on the franchise, many fans missed the depth of storytelling and character interaction found in earlier games.

9. Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story

This fan-favorite from 2009 features an inventive narrative that allows players to control both Mario and Bowser. Its clever dialogue and engaging mechanics earned it a solid place in the series, but its complex gameplay may not appeal to everyone.

8. Mario Sports Superstars

Offering a variety of sports experiences, this 2017 release aimed to combine competitive gameplay with RPG elements. While it succeeded in providing entertainment, its RPG aspects were not as robust, leading to a mixed reception.

7. Paper Mario: Thousand-Year Door

This 2004 title is often lauded as one of the best in the series, thanks to its captivating story and beloved characters. The clever writing and engaging battles have made it a favorite among fans, securing a high rank on our list.

6. Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga

Originally released in 2003, this game introduced a unique combat system and humor that has become a staple in the series. Its combination of exploration and fun dialogue makes it a cherished title in the RPG community.

5. Paper Mario

The original Paper Mario game, released in 2000, was groundbreaking in its use of 2D characters in a 3D world. Its innovative gameplay and engaging story set the stage for future titles, earning it a well-deserved spot on our list.

4. Mario & Luigi: Dream Team

Another strong entry in the Mario & Luigi series, this game added depth with dream mechanics and engaging puzzles. Players appreciated its creativity and humor, contributing to its high ranking.

3. Mario & Luigi: Partners in Time

Despite being ranked lower earlier, this game is often revisited by fans for its nostalgic value and cooperative gameplay mechanics. It’s a reminder of how much RPGs can evolve while still retaining their charm.

2. Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars

This 1996 classic laid the groundwork for many RPG elements in modern Mario games. Its memorable characters and engaging narrative have kept it in the hearts of players, showcasing the lasting impact of the franchise.

1. Paper Mario: The Origami King

Released in 2020, this title has been a standout in the series thanks to its stunning visuals and innovative gameplay mechanics involving origami. The combination of humor, strategy, and exploration solidifies its position as the top-ranked Mario RPG.

Conclusion

The Super Mario RPG series continues to evolve and entertain fans around the world. Each game brings its own unique flavor, contributing to the rich tapestry of Mario's adventures. Whether you’re a newcomer or a longtime fan, the charm of these games is undeniable!

Source: Markmeets