The Super Mario franchise is one of the most iconic and influential video game series in history, captivating players of all ages for decades. From its debut in the 1980s, Mario has become a symbol of Nintendo’s gaming legacy, appearing in countless titles across various platforms. Many fans often ask, How many mainline Mario games are there? Understanding the mainline series requires distinguishing between the core platforming games, spin-offs, and other Mario-themed titles. These mainline games typically follow Mario’s adventures in platform-based gameplay, focusing on story progression, level design, and traditional mechanics. Exploring the history, evolution, and current count of mainline Mario games provides insight into why this series remains beloved worldwide.
Defining Mainline Mario Games
Mainline Mario games are considered the core titles in the franchise, focusing on Mario’s platforming adventures, usually within the Mushroom Kingdom, and often including Princess Peach, Bowser, and other familiar characters. These games emphasize traditional side-scrolling or 3D platform gameplay rather than spin-offs like Mario Kart, Mario Party, or Mario Sports titles. Mainline games are generally numbered sequels or notable standalone titles that advance gameplay mechanics, level design, or story elements while retaining the essence of the franchise. Recognizing what constitutes a mainline game is essential when counting the series accurately.
Early Mainline Mario Games
The mainline series began with Super Mario Bros. released for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) in 1985. This game set the standard for side-scrolling platformers and introduced iconic elements such as power-ups, coins, and flagpoles marking the end of levels. Following this, Nintendo released several direct sequels that built upon the gameplay, narrative, and mechanics
- Super Mario Bros. 2 (1988) – A unique entry with different gameplay origins but later integrated into the Mario canon.
- Super Mario Bros. 3 (1988) – Introduced the overworld map, new power-ups, and more complex level design.
- Super Mario World (1990) – Released for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), added Yoshi and expanded exploration mechanics.
These early titles established the foundation of the mainline series and set the stage for the transition into 3D gameplay in the 1990s.
Transition to 3D Mainline Mario Games
The next major evolution in the mainline series came with 3D platforming. Super Mario 64, released in 1996 for the Nintendo 64, was revolutionary, introducing a fully 3D environment, analog control, and exploration-focused gameplay. It influenced countless platformers and remains a landmark in video game history. Following Super Mario 64, Nintendo continued the mainline series with 3D titles that expanded Mario’s world while introducing innovative mechanics
- Super Mario Sunshine (2002) – For the Nintendo GameCube, featuring FLUDD, a water-based backpack to solve puzzles and navigate levels.
- Super Mario Galaxy (2007) – For the Nintendo Wii, featuring spherical worlds and gravity-based platforming.
- Super Mario Galaxy 2 (2010) – Built on its predecessor’s mechanics, adding new power-ups and challenges.
- Super Mario 3D Land (2011) – For the Nintendo 3DS, blending 2D and 3D gameplay mechanics.
- Super Mario 3D World (2013) – For the Wii U, introducing cooperative multiplayer in mainline 3D Mario gameplay.
- Super Mario Odyssey (2017) – For the Nintendo Switch, featuring open-world kingdoms, innovative Cappy mechanics, and exploration-focused gameplay.
These 3D titles are considered mainline because they continue the franchise’s core focus on platforming and adventure while innovating within the gameplay space.
Counting the Mainline Mario Games
When considering the mainline series, the total number of games includes both classic 2D and modern 3D platformers. The generally recognized mainline titles are
- Super Mario Bros. (1985)
- Super Mario Bros. The Lost Levels (1986)
- Super Mario Bros. 2 (1988)
- Super Mario Bros. 3 (1988)
- Super Mario World (1990)
- Super Mario Land (1989)
- Super Mario Land 2 6 Golden Coins (1992)
- Super Mario 64 (1996)
- Super Mario Sunshine (2002)
- New Super Mario Bros. (2006)
- New Super Mario Bros. Wii (2009)
- Super Mario Galaxy (2007)
- Super Mario Galaxy 2 (2010)
- Super Mario 3D Land (2011)
- New Super Mario Bros. 2 (2012)
- New Super Mario Bros. U (2012)
- Super Mario 3D World (2013)
- Super Mario Odyssey (2017)
- Super Mario Maker (2015) – Sometimes counted as mainline due to its focus on traditional platforming mechanics.
- Super Mario Maker 2 (2019) – Also occasionally included for the same reasons.
Depending on how you classify spin-offs and side projects like the Maker series, the number of mainline Mario games is generally considered to be between 19 and 21 titles as of 2024. This count includes both traditional 2D side-scrolling games and fully 3D platformers that advance the franchise’s core gameplay mechanics.
Spin-Offs vs. Mainline Titles
It is important to differentiate mainline games from spin-offs. Popular spin-offs include
- Mario Kart series – Racing games featuring Mario characters.
- Mario Party series – Multiplayer party games with mini-games.
- Mario Tennis and Mario Golf – Sports-focused spin-offs.
- Mario RPGs – Role-playing games such as Paper Mario or Mario & Luigi series.
These spin-offs are not counted in the mainline total because they diverge from the core platforming gameplay and storyline structure. Only titles centered around Mario’s adventures in platforming environments are considered mainline.
The Evolution of Gameplay in Mainline Mario Games
Mainline Mario games have evolved significantly over the years. The early 2D games focused on precision, timing, and linear progression. With the transition to 3D, exploration, freedom of movement, and creative level design became central. The introduction of new mechanics like FLUDD in Super Mario Sunshine, gravity-based platforming in Galaxy, and Cappy in Odyssey demonstrates Nintendo’s commitment to innovation while preserving the essence of Mario gameplay. The mainline series also often incorporates cooperative multiplayer, new power-ups, and unique worlds, keeping the franchise fresh and engaging for both new and veteran players.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
The mainline Mario series is not only significant in the gaming industry but also culturally influential. Mario has become a mascot for Nintendo and a symbol of gaming worldwide. The series has shaped platformer design, inspired countless developers, and introduced generations of players to video gaming. Understanding how many mainline Mario games exist highlights the series’ longevity and Nintendo’s ability to innovate while staying true to its roots.
In summary, the number of mainline Mario games is generally considered to be between 19 and 21, depending on whether certain titles like the Mario Maker series are included. This total includes the original 2D platformers, early handheld titles, and modern 3D adventures. Mainline games are distinguished from spin-offs by their focus on platforming gameplay, story progression, and core mechanics that define the franchise. From Super Mario Bros. on the NES to Super Mario Odyssey on the Switch, the mainline series demonstrates Nintendo’s dedication to innovation, creativity, and enduring appeal. Understanding the mainline Mario games allows fans and newcomers alike to appreciate the series’ history, evolution, and cultural significance in the gaming world.