Super Mario Odyssey review and best Nintendo Switch game delivers an in-depth look at why this title stands out as one of the most innovative and highly rated adventures available on the console.
Background of Super Mario Odyssey’s Release
Super Mario Odyssey launched in October 2017 for the Nintendo Switch and quickly became one of the console’s flagship titles. Nintendo’s EPD division developed the game under the direction of Kenta Motokura, who wanted to revive the sense of freedom from earlier 3D Mario games while introducing new mechanics for modern players.
Main Storyline and Progression Across Kingdoms
In Super Mario Odyssey, Mario chases Bowser after he kidnaps Princess Peach and tries to force her into marriage. The premise looks familiar to long-time fans, but the execution feels fresh because Mario travels across multiple kingdoms, each with its own unique theme and inhabitants.
Progression depends on collecting Power Moons, which fuel Mario’s airship, the Odyssey. The more Moons players gather, the more kingdoms they unlock. Unlike traditional Mario games that follow a fixed path, Odyssey lets players move freely. Every kingdom contains dozens of Moons hidden behind puzzles, platforming trials, or exploration tasks. This design rewards curiosity and encourages players to carve out their own path.
Innovative Gameplay Mechanics with Cappy
Cappy, a sentient hat, introduces the most important innovation in Super Mario Odyssey. Mario can throw him at objects, enemies, or creatures to capture and control them. This ability allows Mario to become a Goomba, a Bullet Bill, or even a piece of electricity.
The system goes far beyond being a simple gimmick. It changes the way players think about platforming and problem-solving. For example, using a Bullet Bill lets Mario fly across wide gaps, while stacking Goombas gives him access to higher areas. Because of this mechanic, each kingdom feels unique and offers fresh gameplay variety.
Exploration and Power Moon Collection
Power Moons serve as the game’s central collectible. They drive progression while also rewarding exploration. Each kingdom contains a large number of Moons, from simple ones to complex multi-step challenges. Unlike older Mario titles with limited collectibles, such as stars or shines, Odyssey includes an abundance of Moons to keep players searching.
This approach alters how players interact with the game world. Instead of completing one goal before leaving a level, players can continue exploring and collect multiple Moons in a single session. This structure reduces downtime, strengthens immersion, and promotes replayability by encouraging experimentation.
Visual Presentation and World Design
Super Mario Odyssey blends cartoon-like charm with surprising realism. New Donk City presents a bustling urban environment with human characters, while the Luncheon Kingdom embraces surreal colors and playful design. Each kingdom has a distinct style that makes exploration memorable.
Nintendo’s attention to detail also shapes the experience. NPCs, hidden areas, and environmental puzzles appear in ways that reward careful exploration. These thoughtful design choices give the game its reputation as one of the most polished platformers of the modern era.
Soundtrack and Audio Design
Music plays a central role in Super Mario Odyssey. Each kingdom features a soundtrack that matches its energy, from lively jazz in New Donk City to atmospheric tones in darker settings. The standout track, “Jump Up, Super Star!”, became a cultural hit and even received live performances.
The sound design enhances gameplay further. Distinct audio cues accompany each capture, jump, and interaction. These details provide satisfying feedback, making actions feel responsive and adding to the immersion.
Reasons Why Super Mario Odyssey Is Considered Essential
Gamers frequently call Super Mario Odyssey a must-play title for reasons that go beyond nostalgia. Super Mario Odyssey review highlights how the game’s innovative design and creative mechanics keep it relevant for both new players and long-time fans.
- Cappy’s mechanics introduce new ways to solve platforming challenges.
- Non-linear exploration across diverse kingdoms keeps gameplay fresh.
- High replay value with hundreds of Power Moons and post-game content.
- The game appeals to both newcomers and long-time Mario fans.
- Artistic direction and a strong soundtrack make the adventure memorable.
Impact on the Nintendo Switch and Gaming Industry
Super Mario Odyssey helped the Nintendo Switch gain momentum during its early years. Alongside The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, it turned the console into a must-own device. Strong sales numbers proved that gamers still wanted creative 3D platformers, even though the genre had become less prominent. The game also influenced other developers, as its balance of accessibility and depth encouraged studios to rethink exploration and player freedom in platformers.
Super Mario Odyssey review highlights how the game combines innovative mechanics, creative world design, and lasting replay value. These qualities make it one of the most essential experiences on the Nintendo Switch and a benchmark for future entries in the 3D platforming genre.